While many assumed Grand Theft Auto VI had been in development since shortly after GTA V’s 2013 release, new insights suggest Rockstar only began serious work on the game in 2018—just before Red Dead Redemption 2 launched.
Why the Timeline Matters
- Shorter than expected: Full production started just 5-6 years ago, not a decade
- Overlap with RDR2: Rockstar’s teams shifted after finishing the Wild West epic
- Efficiency gains: Modern tools may have accelerated development
This timeline means Grand Theft Auto VI’s scope—while massive—wasn’t built from scratch over 10+ years. Instead, Rockstar focused on RDR2 first, then pivoted to their next blockbuster.
What’s Next for Rockstar?
With GTA 6 nearing completion, the studio has likely already begun work on its next project. Speculation points to:
- GTA VII (unlikely soon, given Grand Theft Auto VI’s lifespan)
- Red Dead Redemption 3
- A revival of older IPs (Bully, Midnight Club)
Could a GTA IV Remaster Fill the Gap?
With GTA 6 delayed to May 2026, rumors suggest Rockstar may release a GTA IV remaster to keep fans engaged. Given the original’s cult following, this could be a smart stopgap.
Why the Delay Was Necessary
Despite the shorter-than-expected dev cycle, GTA 6’s delay ensures:
- Polish for the biggest Rockstar world ever
- Smoother launch than Cyberpunk 2077’s rocky debut
- Time to optimize for next-gen hardware
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Price Update – Take-Two Eases $100 Game Fears
- GTA 6’s Minigame Extravaganza – Vice City Comes Alive With Activities
- GTA 6’s Biggest Secret? Fans Think They’ve Cracked the Code
The Bottom Line
While the wait feels eternal, GTA 6’s development has been more focused than fans realized. When it arrives, it’ll likely set a new benchmark for open-world games—just don’t expect another one soon after.
Would you prefer faster GTA releases, or is Rockstar’s “quality over speed” approach worth it?