Hugely Popular Video Game's Release is Delayed After Decade Wait

Grand Theft Auto VI's release has been delayed until 2026, disappointing already-upset fans who have been waiting over a decade.

Rockstar Games announced on May 2, 2025, that Grand Theft Auto VI is “now coming May 26, 2026.”

“Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to release on May 26, 2026,” the release noted.

“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected," Rockstar Games wrote on X. 

According to CNN, Grand Theft Auto IV is "the most hotly anticipated title in video-gaming history." The game was originally supposed to launch in fall 2025, according to CNN. The previous game in the series, Grand Theft Auto V, was released in 2013..

"The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game," Rockstar Games wrote.

The company noted: "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. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve. We look forward to sharing more information with you soon.”

Fans expressed disappointment on X. "The gap between GTA5 and GTA6 will now be longer than it took Rockstar to make every single Grand Theft Auto game prior to GTA5," wrote one.

"Objective updated: Survive till 2026," wrote another.

"I better be able to walk in EVERY house in the city," another person added.

"If you are gonna delay it, at least give us some screenshots. This marketing strategy may be working for you, but it is painful for the fans," wrote another.

According to CNN, video game delays are often due to "rising production costs and growing pressure from players to deliver polished experiences at launch."

Related: Rockstar Games Reveals When the First 'Grand Theft Auto VI' Trailer Is Being Released