Rockstar Games Delay: Grand Theft Auto VI Now a 2026 Rockstar
With the new release date set for May 2026, fans will have to wait a little longer to experience the next installment in the Grand Theft Auto series, but Rockstar Games' commitment to quality and healthier development practices may be worth the wait, as the company aims to deliver a game that meets the expected quality standards.
Grand Theft Auto VI, the highly anticipated video game, has been delayed until May 26, 2026, pushing its release back from this autumn, with Rockstar Games citing the need for extra time to deliver a game of the expected quality.
The game's developer had internal doubts about the 2025 release window months before the official delay, due to the game's massive scale, tight timelines, and commitment to healthier development practices. Rockstar has moved away from the "brutal crunch" that defined earlier releases, and the current work environment is "night and day" compared to previous cycles.
The delay has been met with frustration from fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the game's release and have been following the development process. The game's release will be exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox, and will not be available on older consoles. The delay may also impact the sales of new consoles, which have recently seen price increases.
Rockstar Games is known for its perfectionist approach and long development cycles, and the delay is not unexpected. However, fans are growing impatient, with some expressing frustration at the wait and the potential impact on their plans. The delay may also give other publishers an opportunity to release their own games before the end of the year, potentially shifting the landscape of the gaming industry.
The latest trailer for GTA VI has been seen over 250 million times on YouTube, and features a female character being released from prison and going on a crime spree with her male partner. The delay has impacted shares of parent company Take-Two Interactive, and fans will have to wait a little longer to get their hands on the highly anticipated game.