GTA 6’s Original 2025 Release Window Was Narrowed Down
The delay of Grand Theft Auto VI to 2026 was a major moment for the gaming world, but it seems a key detail about the game’s original schedule slipped under the radar. While fans knew the game was initially slated for a vague “2025” release, it appears the publisher may have subtly revealed a much more specific target date that went unnoticed at the time.
When Rockstar Games announced the delay this past May, the focus was squarely on the new Spring 2026 date. However, a comment from Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick during a CNBC interview provided a crucial piece of the puzzle. Speaking about the decision, Zelnick called it a “pretty short delay,” clarifying that it was “less than six months.”
This simple statement is incredibly revealing. With the current, firm release date set for May 26, 2026, a delay of “less than six months” would logically place the original internal target somewhere in late November or early December of 2025.
This timeline makes perfect strategic sense. The holiday season, spanning from late November through December, is the most lucrative period for game sales. Landing a titan like GTA VI in this window would have been a primary objective for Take-Two, maximizing its commercial impact right out of the gate.
This revelation also provides context for Rockstar’s initial communication. The studio is famously cautious and rarely commits to a specific day or month until it is absolutely confident. Sticking to a broad “2025” window allowed for flexibility, while internally, the goal was almost certainly aligned with the holiday shopping season.
The question on every fan’s mind now is whether the new May 2026 date is final. History suggests it is. As Zelnick noted, “Generally, when we announce a certain date, we’re able to hit that date.” This tracks with Rockstar’s pattern; after Red Dead Redemption 2 was given its final October 2018 date, it was not delayed again.
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While the nature of modern game development means nothing is ever 100% certain, the evidence points toward a firm target. The original plan for a holiday 2025 launch may be gone, but the new date appears to be the result of a calculated, short delay to ensure the game meets its sky-high expectations, giving players the polished experience they demand.