Rockstar Games just delayed Grand Theft Auto (GTA) 6 – again.
Originally scheduled for a Fall 2025 release, the hotly anticipated GTA 6 game has now been delayed to May 26, 2026, with Rockstar citing the need for more time “to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.” The announcement dropped on May 2, and while no new gameplay details were shared, the delay has already sparked waves of reaction across the gaming world.
In a statement posted to its website, Rockstar acknowledged fan frustration, saying:
“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected… With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and GTA VI is no exception.”
This marks the second major update since the GTA VI trailer first dropped in December 2023. That teaser confirmed a return to Vice City, the introduction of the franchise’s first female protagonist Lucia, and a narrative inspired by Bonnie and Clyde. But since then, Rockstar has remained tight-lipped-until now.
Why the Delay?
Rockstar didn’t specify what triggered the release shift, but signs point to the studio’s notoriously high standards. “We hope you understand,” the note added, “that we need this extra time.”
Industry watchers expect Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, to provide more insight during its upcoming earnings call on May 15. Meanwhile, Take-Two’s stock dropped 8% in pre-market trading following news of the delay.
What’s Next?
Fans will be watching closely for any hints of gameplay, additional trailers, or even a playable demo. While a Spring 2026 release gives Rockstar some breathing room, the pressure is on – especially since GTA V remains a juggernaut more than a decade after launch. In fact, it was Twitch’s most-watched game of 2024.
The Bigger Picture
This delay isn’t just about Rockstar. It reflects a broader trend in AAA development where timelines are stretched to avoid crunch – and to make sure games aren’t shipped unfinished. Titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield have shown how damaging rushed releases can be, so Rockstar’s move may be strategic rather than reactive.
Still, with no new gameplay footage and vague messaging, fans are left with more questions than answers. Will GTA VI live up to the decade-long hype? Can Rockstar reinvent open-world storytelling yet again?
Until then, players will have to keep roaming Los Santos – and waiting.
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