GTA 6 Release Date Update: Rockstar Confirms May 2026 Launch but Rumors Point to Possible Delay
The long-awaited Grand Theft Auto VI finally has an official release date. Rockstar Games has confirmed that GTA 6 will launch on May 26, 2026, bringing relief to millions of fans who have been eagerly waiting for news. However, despite the confirmation, speculation continues to swirl about whether the game could face another delay, shifting its arrival to late 2026.
GTA 6 Release Date Update: Official Confirmation from Rockstar
Rockstar Games and parent company Take-Two Interactive have publicly announced that GTA 6 is set for May 26, 2026. The game will initially be released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, while a PC release date has not yet been confirmed.
The studio explained that the delay from its previously expected fall 2025 release was necessary to ensure the game meets Rockstar’s standards for quality and polish. During a recent shareholder meeting, executives reassured investors and fans that development is on track for the new date.
Which Platforms Will GTA 6 Be Released On?
Rockstar has made it clear that the launch will prioritize next-generation consoles first. Here is what has been confirmed so far:
| Platform | Release Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | May 26, 2026 | Confirmed |
| Xbox Series X | S | May 26, 2026 |
| PC | To be announced | Unconfirmed |
This staggered release strategy mirrors Rockstar’s past approach with GTA V, which debuted on consoles before eventually arriving on PC.
Why Was GTA 6 Delayed?
The delay from 2025 to 2026 was disappointing for fans but not unexpected. Rockstar has a history of postponing launches to enhance the final product. The official reason given was to allow more development time for:
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Expanding the open-world map and gameplay systems
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Improving performance and stability on next-gen consoles
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Refining graphics and animation quality
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Ensuring the game delivers on the hype built since the first trailer
Rumors of Another Delay: Could GTA 6 Slip to October 2026?
While Rockstar has insisted on the May 2026 release date, not everyone is convinced it will hold.
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Insider Tom Henderson has publicly claimed he doubts the game will be ready by May, predicting a new release window in October 2026.
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Despite these reports, Rockstar and Take-Two maintain that the title remains “on track” for its scheduled launch.
This divide has fueled debate in the gaming community, with many wondering if Rockstar will use the additional time to deliver a truly flawless experience.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The release of GTA 6 is expected to be one of the biggest moments in gaming history. The stakes are high for both Rockstar and Take-Two:
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Sales Records: Analysts expect GTA 6 to surpass the massive sales of GTA V, which remains one of the best-selling games ever.
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Console Demand: The launch may drive additional sales of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S as fans prepare for the new generation’s flagship title.
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PC Players: The absence of a confirmed PC release date could frustrate a large segment of the gaming community, though most expect it will eventually arrive.
May 26, 2026, For Now
As it stands, Rockstar’s official stance is clear: GTA 6 will be released on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. But with insider predictions pointing to a possible October 2026 delay, fans are advised to stay tuned for further updates in late 2025.
Regardless of the exact date, GTA 6 is shaping up to be a monumental launch that will redefine open-world gaming and mark one of the most significant entertainment releases of the decade.
