The numbers say it all: After 184 weeks since its initial announcement and 89 weeks since the first trailer stunned the world, GTA 6 is now just 40 weeks away from its May 26, 2026 launch. The revelation from tracking account @GTA6_Countdown has sent waves through the community – equal parts celebration of the nearing finish line and stunned reflection on the years-long anticipation marathon.
By the Numbers: The Long Road to Vice City
| Milestone | Timeline | Weeks Passed |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Announcement | February 2022 | 184 weeks |
| First Trailer | December 2023 | 89 weeks |
| Second Trailer | May 2025 | 15 weeks |
| Launch Date | May 26, 2026 | 40 weeks remaining |
These stats contextualize what became gaming’s most enduring waiting game – spanning leaks, delays, and unprecedented hype.
Fan Reactions: From “Eternity” to “Flying Time”
The countdown triggered emotional responses:
- The Realists: “40 weeks still feels like 5.4 dog years!”
- The Anxious: “10 months seems like an eternity after already waiting 10 years”
- The Nostalgic: “Enjoy the anticipation – soon we’ll have finished it and miss the hype”
- The Optimists: “Time is absolutely flying! We’re in the final lap”
A consensus emerged: The wait, while painful, built historic excitement no game has ever matched.
Why This Final Stretch Feels Different
- Trailer Deprivation: Only 2 trailers in 89 weeks vs. GTA V’s 5 in same timeframe
- Information Blackout: No gameplay, previews, or hands-on demos yet
- Spoiler Epidemic Fear: 40 weeks means increased leak risks as gold master nears
- Hardware Readiness: PS5 Pro launches November 2025 – perfect GTA VI prep
What’s Next Before Launch?
Based on Rockstar’s patterns:
- December 2025: Gameplay trailer (Trailer 3)
- January 2026: Pre-orders open + special editions detailed
- March 2026: Preview event + media hands-on
- April 2026: System requirements + PC version announcement
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Story Mode Rumored to Smash Records with 75-Hour Campaign
- GTA 6’s Biggest Rival Is Its Own Predecessor, Analysts Reveal
- GTA 6 Map Size Debate Ignited by Official Artwork Tease
A Wait Unlike Any Other
This countdown transcends typical hype cycles:
- Cultural Phenomenon: Trailer 1 broke records with 1.9B views in 24 hours
- Generational Shift: PS3 players who enjoyed GTA V now have careers/families
- Industry Benchmark: Will redefine open-world games for the next decade
As one fan perfectly captured: “We complained through every week, but we’ll miss the collective anticipation when it’s gone.”
GTA 6 launches May 26, 2026, on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. PC version expected later.