In an official statement today, Rockstar Games announced that Grand Theft Auto VI, (GTA 6) one of the most anticipated video games of all time. the game was originally slated for a 2025 release, but developers say they need more time to “deliver the best possible experience.
Fans eagerly awaiting Grand Theft Auto VI will have to wait a little longer, as Rockstar Games has reportedly pushed the game’s release to May 2026. IGN first reported the delay, citing sources familiar with the development.
Why the Delay?
Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive, addressed the postponement in an earnings call, citing the need for additional polish and optimization. While no exact release date was given, sources suggest the game is now targeting Spring 2026.
Key reasons for the delay include:
- High Expectations and Pressure – Rockstar Games set a very high bar with GTA V, which has sold over 180 million copies and generated billions in revenue. The sequel needs to significantly innovate to meet fan expectations and justify the long wait.
- Leaks and Security Concerns – In 2022, GTA 6 experienced one of the largest leaks in video game history. While Rockstar confirmed it wouldn’t affect development timelines significantly, it still may have caused internal disruptions and delays.
- Internal Company Changes
- Since GTA V, Rockstar has faced:
- Leadership changes (e.g., Dan Houser, co-founder and lead writer, left in 2020)
- A cultural shift to reduce “crunch” and improve work-life balance
- Workflow disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic
4. Expanded Game World – GTA 6 is rumored to feature the largest map in the series, including multiple cities and dynamic events.
5. Next-Gen Demands – Optimizing for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S while ensuring future PC compatibility adds complexity.
6. Avoiding Crunch – After criticism over Red Dead Redemption 2’s development, Rockstar is prioritizing a healthier workflow.
7. Ongoing Revenue from GTA Online
GTA Online continues to generate huge revenue. There’s been less financial pressure to rush GTA 6 while the current ecosystem is still so profitable.
Originally expected in early 2025, the highly anticipated sequel is now targeting a later launch to ensure the game meets Rockstar’s high standards. While no official reason was given, delays like this are common in big-budget game development, often due to polishing gameplay, fixing bugs, or expanding content.
Rockstar has yet to confirm the delay, but if true, it means GTA 6 will arrive nearly 13 years after GTA V. The game’s first trailer, released in December 2023, confirmed a 2025 release window, but it seems the studio needs more time.
For now, fans will have to stay patient—hopefully, the extra development time means an even bigger and better GTA experience. We’ll update this story if Rockstar makes an official announcement.