In a move that has both surprised and disappointed fans, Rockstar Games has officially announced a new release date for the much-awaited Grand Theft Auto VI, aka GTA VI.
The delay was confirmed through a statement issued by the developer, citing the need for more time to meet the high expectations surrounding the long-awaited title.
GTA VI will now release on May 26, 2026.
“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” Rockstar Games said in its statement. “The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team.”
The company explained that the additional time is essential to maintain the quality standard the series is known for. “With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception,” the statement read. “We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
The announcement is the latest update in the years-long wait for the next installment in one of gaming’s most successful franchises.
GTA VI- still loading
The delay comes amid immense fan excitement following the first trailer, which debuted in December 2023. That 90-second clip — already viewed over 250 million times on Rockstar's official YouTube channel — gave a glimpse into the fictional Vice City, heavily inspired by Miami. It also confirmed the introduction of Lucia, the franchise’s first playable female protagonist.
In the trailer, Lucia is seen walking out of prison and later planning heists with a male partner. “The only way we are going to get through this is by sticking together, being a team,” she says, hinting at a storyline that fans believe channels a “Bonnie and Clyde” dynamic.
All about GTA and its controversies
GTA V, released in 2013, sold over 200 million copies and continues to generate revenue through its online counterpart.
The Grand Theft Auto series, despite its commercial success, has not been free from controversy. The games have long faced criticism for their depiction of violence, criminal activity, and explicit content. Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, has consistently defended the franchise, denying claims that it promotes harmful behavior.
In GTA, players often take on criminal roles—engaging in car theft, shootouts, and more. Past editions have featured missions involving drug deals, robberies, and even violent encounters with sex workers, drawing backlash from some advocacy groups.
The delay was confirmed through a statement issued by the developer, citing the need for more time to meet the high expectations surrounding the long-awaited title.
GTA VI will now release on May 26, 2026.
“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” Rockstar Games said in its statement. “The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team.”
The company explained that the additional time is essential to maintain the quality standard the series is known for. “With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception,” the statement read. “We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to release on May 26, 2026. https://t.co/YgaIn1cYc8 pic.twitter.com/cyeK7GM6Ob
— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) May 2, 2025
The announcement is the latest update in the years-long wait for the next installment in one of gaming’s most successful franchises.
GTA VI- still loading
The delay comes amid immense fan excitement following the first trailer, which debuted in December 2023. That 90-second clip — already viewed over 250 million times on Rockstar's official YouTube channel — gave a glimpse into the fictional Vice City, heavily inspired by Miami. It also confirmed the introduction of Lucia, the franchise’s first playable female protagonist.
In the trailer, Lucia is seen walking out of prison and later planning heists with a male partner. “The only way we are going to get through this is by sticking together, being a team,” she says, hinting at a storyline that fans believe channels a “Bonnie and Clyde” dynamic.
All about GTA and its controversies
GTA V, released in 2013, sold over 200 million copies and continues to generate revenue through its online counterpart.
The Grand Theft Auto series, despite its commercial success, has not been free from controversy. The games have long faced criticism for their depiction of violence, criminal activity, and explicit content. Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, has consistently defended the franchise, denying claims that it promotes harmful behavior.
In GTA, players often take on criminal roles—engaging in car theft, shootouts, and more. Past editions have featured missions involving drug deals, robberies, and even violent encounters with sex workers, drawing backlash from some advocacy groups.
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