Release of Grand Theft Auto VI Postponed to May 2026

BOSTON -- Enthusiasts of the renowned Grand Theft Auto video game series will have to exercise additional patience as Rockstar Games has announced a further delay in the release of Grand Theft Auto VI. The highly anticipated game is now set to launch on May 26, 2026, a shift from the previously anticipated fall release this year.

In a recent post on social media platform X, the game developer expressed remorse over the postponement, which has been a topic of speculation for several years. While the company did not specify the reasons for this latest delay, it emphasized its commitment to delivering a product that meets and exceeds the expectations of its audience.

"With every game we have released, the goal has been to try and exceed your expectations and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception," stated the company. This sentiment reflects the developers' desire to uphold high standards in their game quality.

Following the announcement, shares of Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar's parent company, experienced a nearly 7% decline. However, Strauss Zelnick, the chairman and CEO of Take-Two Interactive, expressed support for Rockstar's decision to take the necessary time to achieve their creative vision. He remains optimistic about the game's potential to deliver a groundbreaking entertainment experience that surpasses audience expectations.

"While we take the movement of our titles seriously and appreciate the vast and deep global anticipation for Grand Theft Auto VI, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence," Zelnick remarked. He also underscored the company's plan for sustained growth and enhanced value for shareholders in the coming years.

Fans have reacted to the news with a mix of disappointment and resignation, given the history of previous delays. Many have shared their feelings on forums such as Reddit, where some expressed skepticism about the new release date, while others took a more hopeful stance, believing that a specific date may indicate a more definitive timeline.

Interest in Grand Theft Auto VI spiked significantly in 2023 when a trailer for the game was leaked online, prompting Rockstar to release an official preview ahead of schedule. This trailer provided glimpses of the anticipated gameplay and setting, suggesting an exploration of a Miami-inspired Vice City and featuring a female protagonist named Lucia, marking a significant first for the franchise. However, the impact of the delay on these elements remains uncertain.