GTA 6 Delayed to May 2026

Rockstar Games has postponed the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 to May 26, 2026, moving it from its original fall 2025 launch window.

In an official statement, Rockstar expressed regret over the substantial delay for what is anticipated to be the most monumental entertainment release in history.

"We sincerely apologize for this extended wait," Rockstar stated. "The overwhelming enthusiasm for a new Grand Theft Auto has been incredibly humbling for our entire team. We deeply appreciate your continued support and patience as we complete development.

"With every title we create, our singular focus is delivering an experience that surpasses player expectations - Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We believe you'll agree this additional time is necessary to achieve the quality level our fans deserve.

"We're excited to reveal more details in the near future."

While Rockstar's announcement confirms GTA 6's revised launch date, the absence of new assets suggests fans must wait longer for the second trailer. Platform specifics remain unconfirmed, fueling speculation about a simultaneous PC release alongside PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions in May 2026.

"There's always inherent risk in setting rigid deadlines," commented Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Rockstar parent company Take-Two, during a February interview with IGN. "While we felt confident about fall 2025, we avoid making absolute guarantees that might compromise quality."

In an investor briefing issued May 2, Zelnick endorsed Rockstar's decision to push GTA 6 into Take-Two's 2027 fiscal year.

"We wholeheartedly support Rockstar Games' choice to extend development for Grand Theft Auto VI, ensuring it delivers the unprecedented, genre-defining experience audiences anticipate.

"While we recognize the global excitement surrounding this title and carefully consider release timing, our paramount commitment remains delivering exceptional quality. This strategic decision aligns with our long-term growth trajectory and shareholder value creation."

Could GTA 6's Delay to May 2026 Enable Same-Day PC and Console Release?

YesNoIt depends

AnswerSee Results

The GTA 6 delay creates opportunity for numerous Q4 2025 releases. Titles like Gearbox's Borderlands 4, EA's Battlefield, Bungie's Marathon, and Sony's Ghost of Yotei now face reduced competition. Nintendo may benefit particularly well as it prepares to launch the Switch 2 successor console.

Meanwhile, developers who accelerated production to avoid the originally projected fall 2025 GTA 6 launch window may face strategic challenges. Any publishers planning May 2026 releases will likely need to reevaluate their launch strategies.