Rockstar Games Delays Release of Grand Theft Auto 6
Rockstar Games has officially announced a delay for the much-anticipated title, Grand Theft Auto 6. Although a specific release date has yet to be publicized, the studio has opted to postpone the game’s launch, citing valid reasons for the decision.
CEO’s Statement on the Delay
In an exclusive interview with Game Rant, Rockstar’s CEO, Abe Riffle, shared insights into this significant decision. He stated that the delay stems from a strategic move to avoid competition with the anticipated launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.
“We felt that it was too big of a risk to release Grand Theft Auto 6 so close to GTA 6, so rather than have to compete directly, we are delaying Grand Theft Auto 6 into 2026. GTA 6 can have 2025 all to itself.”
Industry Impact of the Delay
This announcement aligns with reports suggesting that multiple major publishers are reconsidering their release schedules for titles slated for 2025, aiming to avoid the overwhelming draw of GTA 6. Experts believe that games released immediately before or after GTA 6 could struggle significantly, as the franchise typically attracts a substantial portion of the gaming audience.
A closer look at the summer and fall 2025 release calendar indicates the far-reaching effects of GTA 6’s presence. For example, Microsoft’s upcoming title, Fable, has notably shifted from a fall release, likely as a precaution against the potential impact of Grand Theft Auto’s launch.
Significance of Grand Theft Auto 6
The developers behind Grand Theft Auto 6 clearly recognize the importance of steering clear of what could be one of the largest game releases in recent years. Consequently, this decision speaks volumes about the weight of expectations surrounding the sequel to one of the highest-grossing games in history. It’s a classic example of how one title can influence the entire industry landscape.
What We Know About Grand Theft Auto 6
Little is currently public regarding Grand Theft Auto 6, as Rockstar Games is known for being tight-lipped about project details. The only insights available stem from the initial trailer, which introduced two main characters, hinting at a potential return to the series’ multiple protagonist format. The high-quality visuals showcased in the trailer remain a hallmark of the franchise, setting expected standards for realism and detail.
Future of GTA Online
While the evolution of GTA Online remains uncertain, it is likely that the multiplayer feature will continue, given its immense popularity and financial success stemming from Grand Theft Auto 5. Gamers will have to wait a bit longer for Grand Theft Auto 6, but in the meantime, they can feel assured there will be ample opportunities to enjoy the game upon its eventual release.
Grand Theft Auto 6 does not yet have a confirmed release date but is expected to launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S platforms.