Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for GTA 6, but fans will have to wait until 2026. Dive into the details of this decision and its impact on the gaming industry's release calendar.
Coming on May 26, 2026
Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is one of the most eagerly awaited games in the industry, with fans buzzing since the release of its first trailer. After a period of silence, Rockstar Games finally set a release date, albeit later than many had hoped.
On May 2, through a post on X (formerly Twitter), Rockstar Games confirmed that GTA 6 will launch on May 26, 2026. This announcement came as a surprise, especially following Take-Two Interactive's Q3 2025 earnings call, where they expressed confidence in a Fall 2025 release.
Rockstar Games issued an apology for the delay, expressing gratitude for fans' patience and emphasizing their commitment to delivering a high-quality product. They stated, "We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve." Rockstar promised that more information would be forthcoming.
Take-Two Interactive Fully Supports Rockstar Games’ Decision
Take-Two Interactive has fully endorsed Rockstar Games' decision to extend the development time for GTA 6. On May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick released a statement on their website, underscoring their support for Rockstar's choice.
Zelnick said, "We fully support Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations."
This adjustment aligns with Take-Two's recent statements about their titles potentially releasing in close proximity. Last week, Gearbox Entertainment, another Take-Two subsidiary, announced that Borderlands 4 would launch two weeks earlier. Although some speculated this move was influenced by GTA 6's release window, Gearbox clarified that their decision was independent.
Despite the shifts in release schedules, Take-Two remains dedicated to excellence, stating, "As we continue to release our phenomenal pipeline, we expect to deliver a multi-year period of growth in our business and enhanced value for our shareholders."
Devolver Digital Remains Adamant in Releasing a Game Same Day with GTA 6
In a bold move, Cult of the Lambs publisher Devolver Digital decided not to shy away from GTA 6's launch date but to coincide with it. On May 2, Devolver Digital announced via X that they will release a game on the same day as GTA 6, May 26, 2026, stating, "You can’t escape us."
Back in March, Devolver Digital had already expressed their intention to launch a game simultaneously with GTA 6. They have yet to disclose which title will face off against the behemoth, with potential candidates including follow-ups to Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, Hotline Miami, or even a new IP.
Meanwhile, other developers and publishers are taking a different approach, opting to avoid GTA 6's release window. The Game Business Show reported in March that several anonymous game executives are prepared to delay their games to steer clear of GTA 6's launch.
Despite the delay, anticipation for GTA 6 remains high. Fans are eager to explore the next installment of Rockstar Games' expansive open-world action-adventure series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Keep an eye on our updates for the latest news on the game!
