BOSTON — Fans of the popular video game series Grand Theft Auto are facing a longer wait for the much-anticipated sixth installment.
Rockstar Games announced on social media that the release of Grand Theft Auto VI has been pushed to May 26, 2026. Many fans had been hoping for a much earlier launch, with rumors suggesting a release in 2024 and then later this year. Rockstar expressed regret over the delay but did not go into detail about the reasons behind it.
In their statement, Rockstar emphasized their commitment to quality: “With every game we have released, our goal has been to exceed your expectations. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
Following the announcement, shares of Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, dropped by nearly 7%. Strauss Zelnick, the CEO of Take-Two, defended Rockstar’s decision, stating that the additional time would allow the company to fulfill its creative vision. He expressed confidence in delivering an exceptional gaming experience that would impress players.
While many fans expressed disappointment over the delay, some took it in stride. Disappointment wasn’t unexpected, given the game’s previous release date speculation. On a Reddit forum dedicated to the game, discussions varied; while some fans recalled similar delays from the past, others felt optimistic that having a set release date meant that the game was more likely to be released this time around.
The excitement for Grand Theft Auto VI revived in 2023 when a trailer was leaked, prompting Rockstar to officially release a preview earlier than planned. The teaser hinted at a new setting in Vice City, reminiscent of Miami, and introduced a female main character named Lucia — a first for the franchise. However, with the recent delay, fans are left wondering if any of those details will change.
As anticipation continues to build, fans remain hopeful for what Rockstar has in store. The journey to Grand Theft Auto VI is taking longer than expected, but the promise of a top-quality game is something many are willing to wait for.
