In a move that perhaps isn't so unexpected given Rockstar Games' track record, the developer has delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto 6. Previously slated for a Fall release, Rockstar has confirmed that GTA 6 will be pushed back several months.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is now set to release on May 26, 2026.
"We are very sorry that this is later than you expected," Rockstar said in a statement to fans. "The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game."
"With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve," the statement continued. "We look forward to sharing more information with you."
On the bright side, we now have an official release date for GTA 6 and not just a vague launch window. This also puts to rest the rumor that Borderlands 4 was pushed up out of fear of competing with Rockstar's blockbuster game.
Unfortunately, there were no new assets accompanying today's announcement, which means the wait for Trailer 2 continues. The first trailer for the game was released all the way back in December 2023, breaking a Guinness World Record for most viewed video game reveal on YouTube in 24 hours. The 90-second trailer offered some insight into Grand Theft Auto 6's setting and its main story premise, but we haven't anything of substance shared since them.
GTA 6 looks to be set in Leonida, a fictional state inspired by Florida that's also home to the neon-lit Vice City, a reimagined version of Miami and the main setting to 2002's Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. The game is said to feature two playable protagonists inspired by Bonnie and Clyde: Lucia, the series' first female lead, and her male partner, Jason. Specific narrative details remain undisclosed.
GTA 6 was previously announced for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S which will presumably still be the case despite the delay. Given that there was no mention of updated launch platforms, we can probably still expect a PC version to arrive at a later date. What remains to be seen is if the game will be available on the yet-to-be-announced next-gen consoles. The next iteration of Xbox and PlayStation consoles are rumored to arrive in 2027, which isn't too far out from GTA 6's new release date.
Rockstar parent company Take-Two is reporting its fiscal year 2025 earnings on May 15, 2025. The company will host an earnings call after the market closes which may provide more details about GTA 6.