Fans of Grand Theft Auto have been eagerly awaiting GTA 6, but Rockstar Games recently announced a slight delay—pushing the release from 2025 to May 26, 2026. While delays are never ideal, Take-Two Interactive’s CEO Strauss Zelnick assures players this is a minor setback and further changes are unlikely.
Why Was GTA 6 Delayed?
Originally slated for a vague “2025” launch, the new May 2026 date gives Rockstar extra time to polish the game. Zelnick called the delay “pretty short” (less than six months) and emphasized that Rockstar aims to deliver “the best thing anyone has ever seen in entertainment.”
This isn’t surprising—Rockstar has a history of delaying major titles:
- GTA 5 (2013) was delayed by 4 months.
- Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) was pushed back nearly a year.
The extra development time suggests Rockstar is prioritizing quality, ensuring Grand Theft Auto 6 meets sky-high expectations.
What Does This Mean for Other Games?
With Grand Theft Auto 6 now set for mid-2026, other publishers can breathe easier. Many had avoided announcing late 2025 releases to avoid competing with Rockstar’s juggernaut.
Upcoming titles like:
- Marathon (Bungie)
- Ghost of Yōtei (Sucker Punch)
- The Dark Pictures Anthology: Directive 8020
may now get clearer release dates, especially with Summer Game Fest announcements on the horizon.
Also, Read
- The Silver Lining Behind GTA 6’s Delay
- The Great GTA 6 Trailer Debate – What Comes Next?
- GTA 6 Price Speculation – Will Rockstar Break the $70 Barrier?
Fan Reactions & What’s Next
While delays are frustrating, most fans understand Rockstar’s commitment to perfection. The second GTA 6 trailer helped ease concerns, showcasing stunning visuals and a return to Vice City.
Zelnick’s confidence in hitting the May 2026 date suggests no further delays—meaning players can finally mark their calendars.