GTA 6 Release Delayed Before Announcement

Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for GTA 6, but fans will need to wait until 2026 for the game's launch. This unexpected delay has stirred conversations about its impact on other game releases. Let's dive deeper into Rockstar's decision and what it means for the gaming industry.

GTA 6 Release Date Announced

Coming on May 26, 2026

Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is one of the most eagerly awaited games in recent history. After years of anticipation and a tantalizing first trailer, fans were eager for any news on its release. However, the announcement from Rockstar Games on May 2 via Twitter (X) came with a twist: GTA 6 is now set to launch on May 26, 2026, a year later than expected.

This delay contradicts earlier statements from Take-Two Interactive, GTA 6's publisher, who had expressed confidence in a Fall 2025 release during their Q3 2025 earnings call. Rockstar Games expressed their apologies for the delay and thanked fans for their patience. They emphasized their commitment to delivering a high-quality product, stating, "We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve." More details are promised to be shared soon.

Take-Two Interactive Fully Supports Rockstar Games’ Decision

Take-Two Interactive stands firmly behind Rockstar Games' decision to delay GTA 6. In a statement released on their website on May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick voiced his support, saying, "We support fully Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations."

This adjustment aligns with Take-Two's broader release strategy, as seen with Gearbox Entertainment's decision to move up Borderlands 4's launch date by two weeks. While many speculated that this move was to avoid clashing with GTA 6, Gearbox has denied any such influence. Take-Two remains dedicated to excellence, stating, "As we continue to release our phenomenal pipeline, we expect to deliver a multi-year period of growth in our business and enhanced value for our shareholders."

Devolver Digital Remains Adamant in Releasing a Game Same Day with GTA 6

In a surprising twist, the delay of GTA 6 has prompted Devolver Digital, the publisher behind Cult of the Lambs, to schedule their own game release on the same day, May 26, 2026. Devolver Digital announced this bold move via Twitter (X) on May 2, declaring, "You can’t escape us."

Back in March, Devolver had already stated their intention to launch a game on the same day as GTA 6. While they have yet to disclose which game will take on this challenge, potential candidates include sequels to popular titles like Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, or Hotline Miami, or perhaps an entirely new IP.

In contrast, other developers and publishers are reportedly planning to avoid GTA 6's release window. According to The Game Business Show in March, several anonymous game executives confirmed their readiness to delay their projects to steer clear of GTA 6's launch.

Despite the delay, excitement for GTA 6 remains high. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Rockstar Games' iconic open-world action-adventure series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to release on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our related articles below!