Rockstar Games has reconfirmed May 26, 2026, as the official launch date for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6). However, industry insiders believe players may have to wait longer, as the studio is known for prioritizing polish and perfection—often at the cost of delays.
Insider Predictions of a Postponement
On the Insider Gaming podcast, well-known journalist Tom Henderson voiced doubts about Rockstar meeting the May release window.
“To be honest, I don’t think it’s going to launch in May. For some reason, I can’t see GTA 6 coming in May. You know, all the noise and what we hear don’t suggest it,” Henderson said.
According to him, the studio’s perfectionist approach makes a second-half 2026 release more likely. He even speculated about an October 2026 launch, a month Rockstar has historically favored for its blockbuster releases.
Why an October Release Makes Sense
Releasing GTA 6 in October would strategically align with the holiday sales period, including Black Friday and Christmas, when game sales traditionally peak.
Such a move could also:
- Clear the calendar: Other studios may adjust release schedules to avoid competing directly with GTA 6.
- Boost long-term sales: The final quarter of the year has historically delivered the strongest numbers for major titles.
- Position GTA 6 near next-gen hardware: With PlayStation 6 and Xbox Magnus rumored to be on the horizon, Rockstar could prepare versions tailored for these platforms, alongside the long-awaited PC edition promised by Take-Two Interactive.
While Rockstar has not officially confirmed any changes to the May 2026 date, the studio has a track record of pushing back major releases. Both GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 experienced lengthy delays before launch, fueling speculation that GTA 6 may follow the same path.
Henderson suggested Rockstar might wait until late 2025 before making any official announcement about a new timeline.
The Official Word—For Now
Until Rockstar or parent company Take-Two Interactive say otherwise, GTA 6 remains locked in for May 26, 2026, exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Still, with the weight of expectations and the studio’s commitment to delivering a near-flawless experience, fans shouldn’t be surprised if Vice City opens its doors a few months later than planned.
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