GTA 6 Release Delayed to May 2026, Rockstar Games Cites Commitment to Quality

In a significant announcement for the gaming industry, Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto (GTA) 6 to May 26, 2026. The highly anticipated title, expected to be one of the biggest entertainment launches in history, will miss its previously announced 2025 release window.

“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” Rockstar stated in their official announcement. “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.”

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Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to release on May 26, 2026. https://t.co/YgaIn1cYc8 pic.twitter.com/cyeK7GM6Ob

— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) May 2, 2025
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The developer emphasized their commitment to quality as the primary reason for the extended timeline. “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.”

This delay positions the game firmly in Take-Two Interactive’s fiscal year 2027, which runs from April 2026 through March 2027. The announcement had immediate financial implications, with Take-Two’s shares reportedly dropping as much as 16% following the news.

Industry observers note the timing of this announcement comes shortly before Take-Two’s quarterly earnings call, suggesting a strategic move to address the delay before facing investor questions.

While the announcement confirms the new release date, Rockstar did not release any new assets or information about the game itself, extending the wait for the anticipated second trailer. The statement also didn’t specify launch platforms, leaving open the possibility that GTA 6 might release simultaneously on PC alongside PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.