‘GTA 6’ Release Pushed Back to 2026, Rockstar Games Apologizes for Delay

In news that has left millions of fans disappointed but not entirely surprised, Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto VI to May 2026. Originally expected in late 2025, the announcement confirms mounting speculation that the next installment in the blockbuster franchise needed more time in development.

The delay was confirmed through a statement released by Rockstar and its parent company, Take-Two Interactive, during their recent earnings report. In it, Rockstar emphasized the need for additional time to deliver the level of quality and innovation fans expect:

“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected. 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.”

The reaction across the gaming world was immediate. While some expressed frustration, others pointed to Rockstar’s track record of delivering genre-defining experiences—such as GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2—as a reason to trust the delay will be worth the wait.

The financial markets also responded sharply. Take-Two Interactive’s stock dropped more than 15% in pre-market trading following the announcement, reflecting investor concerns over the postponed revenue stream that *GTA 6* was expected to generate in fiscal 2025.

Though little is still known about the full scope of GTA 6, the first trailer—released in December 2023—set records and offered a glimpse into the return of Vice City, new protagonists, and Rockstar’s most ambitious open-world to date.

For now, fans will have to hold on a little longer. But if Rockstar’s history is any indication, the delay could mean the difference between a good game—and a masterpiece.