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As expected by many, but still a letdown: Rockstar Games has officially delayed Grand Theft Auto 6. Originally planned for a Fall 2025 release, the game is now scheduled to launch on May 26, 2026.
The announcement was surprisingly dry. No new screenshots, no second trailer, and no new details to keep fans busy. Since the record-breaking debut trailer in November 2023, there has been ear-deafening silence, and the lack of updates is starting to frustrate a community that has already waited more than a decade.
‘Strauss giving us nuggets of hope disappointing’
Yet community members are keeping hope, such as @SynthPotato: “It’s not really surprising at all, everyone who’s in the know and keeps up with Rockstar has guessed this was coming but Strauss giving us nuggets of hope was quite disappointing. All in all it’s a long wait but we’ll make it hopefully and the extra time will surely result in an even more complete experience.“
@SynthPotato is referring to Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick repeatedly expressing confidence on the original fall 2025 release in the media. Zelnick said in February in an interview with IGN: “Look, there’s always a risk of slippage and I think as soon as you say words like absolutely, you jinx things, so we feel really good about it. (The Fall 2025 release window)”. Even though Zelnick felt good about the Fall 2025 release window, Rockstar developers were long skeptical about the launch window, according to Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier.
‘Hope they give us trailer 2 as an apology’
Community member @GameRollGTA also spoke with us about the delay, stating: ‘I know that most people’s reactions will be negative. I understand the disappointment and of course I’d rather have it ASAP. But, I’ve chosen to adopt a more optimistic mindset. Rockstar is crafting something truly special. RDR2 was delayed twice, and that’s what was required to create such a masterpiece. I have complete faith in their abilities and I cannot wait for next May!’
Fans are also wondering why we didn’t get any screenshots or new info to lighten the blow of the at least 6 month delay. GTA V speedrunner @DarkViperAU went on X to respond : ‘IT ACTUALLY GOT DELAYED A WHOLE YEAR?! I was so adament it would be delayed, then everyone convinced me it wouldn’t be! Now they actually delay it!? Crazy. Better it come out good than rushed, but still disappointing… Hope they at least give us trailer 2 as an apology.’
2025 release marketing remains online
Surprisingly, Rockstar has yet to update its website or marketing materials to reflect the new release date. Both the official website and the banner on X still display the original Fall 2025 launch window. This has sparked speculation that Rockstar may reveal more details sooner than expected, possibly in an effort to boost investor confidence ahead of Take-Two’s upcoming quarterly earnings call.
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