GTA 6 Launch Delayed by Take-Two

Rockstar Games has announced the official release date for GTA 6, though it has been pushed back to 2026. Continue reading for insights into their decision and its potential effects on other upcoming game launches.

GTA 6 Release Date Revealed

Arriving on May 26, 2026

Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) stands as one of the most eagerly awaited games, with fans on the edge of their seats since its first trailer premiered. After years of quiet anticipation, developer Rockstar Games has at last disclosed GTA 6's release date—though it may not align with what fans had hoped for.

On May 2, in a Twitter (X) announcement, Rockstar Games confirmed that GTA 6 is slated for a May 26, 2026 launch. This news took many fans by surprise, especially since publisher Take-Two Interactive had expressed confidence in a Fall 2025 release during its Q3 2025 earnings call.

Rockstar Games extended apologies for the delay and expressed gratitude to fans for their continued patience as they finalize the game. They explained, "We hope you understand that we require this extra time to meet the standard of quality you expect and rightfully deserve." Additional updates are expected to roll out in the near future.

Take-Two Interactive Fully Endorses Rockstar Games’ Decision

Take-Two Interactive has thrown its full support behind Rockstar Games' choice to extend GTA 6's development cycle. In a May 2 statement posted on their official website, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick discussed the reasons behind the revised launch schedule.

He affirmed, "We wholeheartedly support Rockstar Games in taking the necessary time to bring their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI to life—a title poised to be a trailblazing, blockbuster entertainment experience that will surpass audience expectations."

This revision aligns with earlier comments regarding overlapping release schedules for Take-Two's titles. Last week, Gearbox Entertainment revealed that Borderlands 4 would arrive two weeks ahead of its original date. Speculation arose that this move was related to GTA 6's launch, given both are under Take-Two's umbrella. However, Gearbox refuted any connection, clarifying that Borderlands 4’s date change was independent of other games.

Despite these ongoing adjustments to release windows, Take-Two remains dedicated to delivering outstanding products. They emphasized, "As we continue to roll out our remarkable pipeline of titles, we anticipate a sustained period of growth and enhanced shareholder value in the years to come."

Devolver Digital Stands Firm on Launching a Title Alongside GTA 6

GTA 6's rescheduled launch has motivated Cult of the Lamb publisher Devolver Digital to adjust its own release—not away from GTA 6, but directly alongside it. On May 2, Devolver Digital declared on Twitter (X) that their own project will also debut on May 26, stating plainly, "You can’t escape us."

Back in March, Devolver had already vowed to launch a title concurrently with GTA 6. To date, it remains unclear which of their games—be it a follow-up to popular franchises such as Cult of the Lamb, Enter the Gungeon, or Hotline Miami, or perhaps an entirely new IP—will go head-to-head with Rockstar's juggernaut.

In contrast, other developers and publishers appear to be steering clear of GTA 6's launch period. According to a March report by The Game Business Show, several anonymous gaming executives indicated they are willing to postpone their own releases to avoid competing with GTA 6.

Despite this unexpected scheduling change, fans remain as eager as ever to dive into the next chapter of Rockstar Games' expansive open-world action-adventure. Grand Theft Auto VI is now scheduled for a May 26, 2026 launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay informed with the latest updates by exploring our related article below!