BOSTON — The highly anticipated video game, Grand Theft Auto VI, will not be released as soon as some fans might have hoped. On Friday, Rockstar Games announced in a post on X that the game’s release has been postponed until May 26, 2026. The delay comes as a surprise to gamers who have been eagerly awaiting the game for several years. While the company did not share specific reasons for pushing back the release, it expressed regret for the delay.
Rockstar Games emphasized its commitment to high standards, stating, “With every game we have released, the goal has been to try and exceed your expectations and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.” This statement underscores Rockstar’s dedication to ensuring that the upcoming game lives up to consumer expectations.
Following the announcement, the parent company of Rockstar, Take-Two Interactive, experienced a nearly 7% drop in its stock value on Friday. However, Chairman and CEO Strauss Zelnick defended Rockstar’s decision to delay the game. Zelnick highlighted the importance of allowing the developers to fulfill their artistic vision and said the final product is still expected to deliver an exceptional experience that will surpass audience expectations. He reassured stakeholders by adding, “As we continue to release our phenomenal pipeline, we expect to deliver a multi-year period of growth in our business and enhanced value for our shareholders.”
Though fans of the franchise expressed disappointment over the delay, many seemed resigned, pointing out that this was not the first time the game’s release had been pushed back. In various discussions, especially on Reddit, some players mentioned they would not be surprised if there were more delays to come. Yet, among the disappointment, there was also hope, with some fans feeling optimistic that the newly set launch date reinforces the likelihood of the game’s eventual release.
The excitement surrounding Grand Theft Auto VI has been building, with one of the most significant moments occurring in 2023. At that time, a trailer for the game was unexpectedly leaked online, prompting Rockstar to unveil a sneak peek of the new installment earlier than intended. This 90-second trailer revealed potential elements of the game, hinting at a setting inspired by Miami’s Vice City and featuring a female lead character, Lucia—a first for the series.
It remains uncertain if the delay will lead to changes in these anticipated features. Fans and industry watchers are left curious about whether the details shared in the trailer will remain true in the final version of Grand Theft Auto VI when it eventually launches in 2026.