GTA 6 Officially Delayed to May 2026 | Rockstar Games Pushes Back Launch

In a major but not entirely unexpected update, Rockstar Games has announced a delay in the release of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), shifting its launch date from the originally planned Fall 2025 window to May 26, 2026.

The news, released via Rockstar’s official channels, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions across the gaming world. While many fans are disappointed, others are hopeful that the additional time will ensure a more polished and groundbreaking experience — one worthy of the franchise’s legacy.

Rockstar cited the reason for the delay as a need to “deliver a product that exceeds the massive expectations” of fans globally. The company emphasized that while development is progressing well, the additional time will allow the team to refine the game to Rockstar's legendary standards.

The announcement had immediate ripple effects on Wall Street. Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, saw a noticeable dip in stock prices shortly after the delay was confirmed. Analysts pointed out how crucial GTA 6 is to Take-Two’s future earnings, given the franchise's massive global fanbase and its influence on the gaming market.

Despite the delay, the hype around GTA 6 remains sky-high. The game’s teaser trailer broke YouTube records, and leaks around the new Vice City-inspired map, enhanced graphics, and dual protagonists have kept the anticipation alive.

While a delay is frustrating, history has shown that Rockstar’s commitment to quality often results in industry-defining titles — as seen with GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2. As fans wait another year, one thing is certain: expectations for GTA 6 have never been higher.