GTA 6 delayed to May 2026, and Take-Two boss promises it will exceed expectations and redefine blockbusters

Rockstar Games has officially pushed back the release of Grand Theft Auto VI from its previously anticipated Fall 2025 window to May 26, 2026. Although the news will be a letdown for millions of excited fans, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick is confident in the decision, assuring that the final product will exceed expectations and provide a revolutionary entertainment experience.


Take-Two Interactive, the parent firm of Rockstar Games, has confirmed the delay in a statement posted on its official website. The news comes only days ahead of the firm releasing its financial strategy for the next year. On account of the news, Take-Two's share price fell by approximately 10% during early Friday morning trading.
In spite of the short-term investor response, CEO Strauss Zelnick was optimistic about Rockstar's requirement for additional time. In his statement, Zelnick stated:
"We support fully Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations."
He went on to say that although the company is serious about delays, they are committed to quality and feel the move will ultimately create long-term value for players and shareholders alike.

Zelnick's comments echo what he’s said for over a year, Rockstar is aiming for perfection. The six-month delay suggests the developers need more time to polish the game, which is unsurprising given the immense expectations following the record-breaking success of GTA V.
In spite of the delay, fan interest is still high. The initial GTA VI trailer broke YouTube records in December and is still one of the most discussed releases on the internet. Rockstar's marketing push has only just started, with entertainment and sports brands, such as Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix, already incorporating GTA VI themes into promotions.
The timing of the announcement, just before Take-Two's fiscal report, indicates the firm is gearing up to demonstrate optimism in its pipeline for the longer term.
A delay is never great news for the fans, but Rockstar and Take-Two seem determined that GTA VI deserves to live up to its mammoth hype. If Zelnick's confident promises are vindicated, the players could be in for the most ambitious videogame experience ever made.
Also Read: New GTA Online event week brings huge bonuses, Dark Manor Suit, and more