Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), but fans will need to wait a bit longer than expected, with the game now slated for release on May 26, 2026. This news follows a period of intense speculation and excitement since the first trailer was released, and it marks a significant shift from the previously suggested Fall 2025 window by its publisher, Take-Two Interactive.
In a tweet on May 2, Rockstar Games confirmed the new launch date for GTA 6. The decision to delay the game until 2026 was met with an apology to fans, coupled with gratitude for their patience. "We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve," stated Rockstar Games, promising more details to be shared soon.
Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, has voiced full support for the delay. In a statement released on their website on the same day, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick emphasized the importance of giving Rockstar the time needed to perfect their vision. "We support fully 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," he said.
This adjustment aligns with Take-Two's earlier comments about their game releases potentially overlapping. Notably, Gearbox Entertainment, another Take-Two subsidiary, recently announced that Borderlands 4 will launch two weeks earlier than planned. While some speculated this move was to avoid clashing with GTA 6, Gearbox denied any such influence. Take-Two remains committed to delivering a strong lineup of games, aiming for growth and enhanced shareholder value.
In a surprising move, Devolver Digital, the publisher behind hits like Cult of the Lamb, has decided to launch one of their games on the same day as GTA 6, May 26, 2026. Announced via a tweet on May 2, Devolver Digital stated, "You can’t escape us," reaffirming their earlier commitment from March to release a game simultaneously with GTA 6. The specific title remains under wraps, but possibilities include sequels to popular games like Enter the Gungeon or Hotline Miami, or perhaps a new IP.
In contrast, other game developers and publishers are opting to avoid the GTA 6 release window altogether. According to The Game Business Show, several anonymous executives mentioned plans to delay their games to sidestep competition with the blockbuster title.
Despite the delay, excitement for Grand Theft Auto VI remains high. The game is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. For the latest updates on GTA 6, make sure to check out our comprehensive coverage below!