In a move that has left fans both disappointed and oddly relieved, Rockstar Games has officially announced that Grand Theft Auto VI will now launch on May 26, 2026. This marks a delay from the previously anticipated fall 2025 release window, leaving fans to speculate wild things. Rockstar cited the need for additional development time to ensure the game meets the high-quality standards expected by players.
In a statement, the company expressed gratitude for the support and patience of its community, acknowledging the disappointment caused by the delay.
“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” Rockstar stated. “We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
The announcement of the delay had immediate effects beyond the gaming community. Shares of Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, dropped by approximately 8% following the news. Analysts suggest that while the delay is a setback, it may ultimately benefit the company by ensuring a polished product that meets consumer expectations. However, the fans and investors might just be getting their feet cold.
Set in the fictional state of Leonida, which mirrors Florida, GTA VI will return to the neon-lit streets of Vice City. Players will follow the story of Lucia, the series’ first non-optional female protagonist, and her partner Jason, in a narrative inspired by the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. The game promises an expansive open world, rich storytelling, and the satirical social commentary Rockstar is known for.
The anticipation for GTA VI has been building since its announcement in 2023. The first trailer broke YouTube records with over 93 million views on its first day and currently boasts over 251 million views.
Rockstar Games has a track record of postponing releases, such as Red Dead Redemption 2, GTA 5, and GTA IV, to ensure a polished final product.
While the wait continues, fans can take solace in the widely-popular GTA VI release date memes.