As of now, Rockstar Games has confirmed that there will be no delays for Grand Theft Auto 6, with the game still scheduled for a Fall 2025 release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. However, the recent silence surrounding new updates has raised concerns among fans about a possible postponement. It’s worth noting that previous Rockstar titles, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2, experienced delays, which adds to the unease among the community.
Nonetheless, if a delay were to occur, it could have its advantages. Here are five reasons why a possible postponement of GTA 6 to 2026 might not be detrimental.
Five Reasons a Delay of GTA 6 to 2026 Could Be Beneficial
1) More Time for Development and Refinement
Rockstar Games has touted Grand Theft Auto 6 as the most ambitious and immersive entry in the series to date. Although gameplay details remain scant, the hint at extensive features indicates a complex game structure. A delay could provide developers with the necessary time to address any technical issues and ensure that the game launches in optimal condition.
2) Preventing a Cyberpunk 2077 Scenario
The launch of Cyberpunk 2077 serves as a cautionary tale for developers, as what was expected to be a groundbreaking title was marred by critical bugs and performance issues at release. Like GTA 6, it generated immense anticipation but ultimately suffered from unpreparedness at launch. Rockstar has previously faced challenges with the release of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. Therefore, a delay could be a prudent decision to avert such pitfalls.
3) Opportunity to Integrate Additional Features
Beyond fixing existing issues, an extended development timeline could allow Rockstar to introduce new features into GTA 6. Fans are eager to see familiar elements from older titles return while also longing for innovative gameplay mechanics. Enhancing player interaction with the virtual environment could greatly elevate the gaming experience.
4) Easier Competition with Upcoming Titles
While GTA 6 is anticipated to be a major release, 2025 is also set to showcase several high-profile games, including Mafia: The Old Country, Borderlands 4, and Ghost of Yotei. A delay to 2026 would allow these titles a fair opportunity to shine, ensuring that gamers can appreciate each game thoroughly without the overshadowing presence of GTA 6.
5) Potential for a Major GTA Online Expansion
The long wait for Grand Theft Auto 6 has been a source of frustration for fans, especially for those on PC, who still have no announcements regarding the game for their platform. If 2026 becomes a reality for the game’s release, it could feel overwhelming for eager players. However, this waiting period could be an ideal opportunity for Rockstar to release a significant update or DLC for GTA Online. While the latest DLCs have been smaller in scope, a larger update could provide an exciting bridge to the next installment, helping to alleviate community disappointment while offering a worthy farewell to the 2013 multiplayer experience.