With GTA 6 Delayed to 2026, Will Rockstar Finally Launch on PC Day One?
With GTA 6 delayed to 2026, fans hope Rockstar breaks tradition with a day-one PC release—offering long-awaited inclusion for PC players.
Rockstar Games recently confirmed that Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed to Q2 2026, pushing back the release of what is arguably the most anticipated game of the decade. While the announcement left fans disappointed, it also reignited discussions about a long-standing frustration among PC players: the absence of a simultaneous PC release.
Historically, Rockstar has staggered its launches, releasing major titles like GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 on consoles first, with PC ports arriving over a year later. With GTA VI now delayed, the extended development window presents a unique opportunity—one that could allow Rockstar to break from tradition and offer a day-one PC launch.
A Long Wait and an Even Longer Legacy
The GTA franchise has always operated on its own timeline. After rapid early releases like GTA III (2001), Vice City (2002), and San Andreas (2004), the pace slowed significantly. GTA IV launched in 2008, followed by GTA V in 2013. Now, more than a decade later, GTA VI is expected to arrive in 2026—marking a 13-year gap. In that time, the gaming landscape has transformed, and fans' expectations have evolved.
Despite this gap, Rockstar hasn’t been idle. The company launched Red Dead Redemption 2 and has continuously supported GTA Online. Still, many fans feel that a 13-year wait for a core GTA title deserves more than just another round of console-first exclusivity.
PC Players Still Left Behind?
Rockstar’s decision to omit PC from initial release windows has always baffled parts of the community, especially given the fact that development and internal testing often occur on high-end PC hardware. The reasoning may include prioritizing console optimization or avoiding development crunch, but critics argue it also serves another purpose: a second wave of revenue when the PC port inevitably launches later.
That said, modern gaming trends show simultaneous multi-platform launches are increasingly feasible. Titles like Elden Ring and Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 proved that even expansive, graphically demanding games can release on both consoles and PC at the same time.
The 2026 Delay: A Hidden Opportunity?
The extra development time from the 2026 delay might give Rockstar the runway needed to develop a polished PC version ready for launch day. With the immense resources at its disposal, the studio is well-positioned to support a simultaneous release, which would also serve as a goodwill gesture to the loyal PC community.
Still, past precedent suggests otherwise. GTA V took 18 months to reach PC after its console debut. Red Dead Redemption 2 arrived on Steam more than a year post-launch. If Rockstar maintains its traditional rollout, PC players likely won’t see GTA VI until late 2027 or beyond.
A Risk Worth Taking?
A day-one PC release wouldn’t just reward fans—it could significantly boost Rockstar’s launch revenue and soften backlash from the delay. While it’s unlikely based on the company’s track record, this extended development cycle presents a rare chance for Rockstar to rethink its strategy.
After over a decade of anticipation, fans are asking for more than just another blockbuster—they’re asking to be included from the very beginning.
