GTA 6 Delayed to May 2026 Amid Industry Concerns

Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 from its original Fall 2025 window to May 26, 2026, citing the need for additional time to meet quality expectations and a management desire to avoid the kind of 'crunch' work culture previously associated with the studio. Multiple sources, including Bloomberg's Jason Schreier, report that many at Rockstar had long doubted the 2025 release was achievable due to the scale of work required. Industry analysts highlight the negative impact of this delay on the broader games industry, noting that GTA 6 was expected to drive hardware sales, attract lapsed players, and reinvigorate investor interest, with its absence likely leading to lower spending and a challenging outlook for 2025. Fans have expressed disappointment but also skepticism about whether the newly announced date will be met, given Rockstar's history of lengthy development cycles. Meanwhile, other game publishers may feel some relief, as they can avoid releasing titles directly alongside GTA 6, which is considered a major industry event. Overall, the delay reflects shifting industry attitudes toward work-life balance and the immense anticipation surrounding the next installment in the blockbuster franchise.