In a CNBC interview, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick dropped a major revelation: Rockstar Games has “multiple projects” underway beyond Grand Theft Auto VI. While emphasizing GTA 6’s priority (launching May 26, 2026), Zelnick hinted at a pipeline of unannounced titles – sparking intense speculation about beloved franchises.
What Are These Mystery Projects?
Industry insiders point to two likely categories:
1. Next-Gen Upgrades (Most Probable)
- Red Dead Redemption 2: 4K/60fps PS5/Xbox Series X|S enhancement
- GTA IV: Ray tracing, modern controls, restored soundtrack
- Max Payne Trilogy: Visual overhaul leveraging Remedy’s tech
2. Full Remakes (Post-GTA 6)
- Red Dead Redemption 1: Rebuilt in RDR2’s engine
- Bully: Expanded campus life with modern mechanics
Zelnick noted these would likely follow GTA VI’s launch to avoid resource conflicts.
Why Upgrades Make Sense Now
- Market Gap: 70M+ new-gen consoles lack classic Rockstar optimizations
- Revenue Stream: Low-risk updates fund future AAA development
- Fan Demand: RDR2 upgrade petitions garnered 250K+ signatures
GTA 6 Remains the Priority
Zelnick reassured investors:
“We’re confident in our May 2026 date”
Key focus areas:
- Finalizing single-player campaign (70+ hours)
- Building next-gen GTA Online infrastructure
- Policing leaks after September’s map breach
What Fans Should Realistically Expect
| Timeline | Project | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Late 2026 | RDR2 PS5/XSX Upgrade | ★★★★★ |
| 2027 | GTA IV Remastered | ★★★★☆ |
| 2028 | Red Dead 1 Remake | ★★★☆☆ |
| PC version of GTA VI expected 6-12 months post-console launch. |
Why This Matters
- Legacy Preservation: Modernizes classics for new audiences
- Resource Allocation: Upgrades fund riskier new IPs
- Industry Shift: Signals studios prioritizing back-catalog monetization
Zelnick declined to name specific titles. All projects subject to Rockstar’s notoriously secretive development cycles.
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Release Date “Confirmation” Meets Fan Skepticism
- GTA 6 Pricing Comments Spark Fan Debate – “Fair Price” Promise Meets Skepticism
- GTA 6 Release Date Anxiety – Will May 2026 Hold?
Key Takeaways
- GTA 6’s May 2026 date appears locked
- PC version remains unconfirmed but inevitable
- RDR2 upgrade likely first post-GTA6 release
- Manage expectations: No RDR3 or Bully 2 hints
Rockstar’s silence will likely persist until late 2026 – but for now, hope lives for revisiting Liberty City and the Wild West.