GTA 6 delayed to May 2026: Rockstar prioritizes quality and developer well-being

Rockstar Games has officially confirmed that Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) will now launch on May 26, 2026, pushing back its earlier expected release. The announcement has stirred disappointment among fans who were hoping for a 2025 debut, but industry experts suggest the delay is a sign of positive change within the studio.

Gaming journalist Jason Schreier, known for his insider insights, shed light on the reasons behind the delay. According to Schreier, the original Fall 2025 release window had long been seen as unrealistic by those inside Rockstar. “Nobody I've talked to at Rockstar has believed Fall 2025 was a real window for a very long time now," he shared on social media. "Too much work, not enough time, and what appears to be a real desire from management to avoid brutal crunch. GTA VI slipping to 2026 has seemed inevitable for months, if not longer.”

Schreier emphasized that the new timeline reflects a cultural shift at Rockstar Games—one focused on maintaining high-quality output while protecting employees from harsh work conditions, a known issue in the game development industry.

Rockstar addressed fans directly in a message posted on its official channels, acknowledging the disappointment while reaffirming its commitment to excellence. “We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” the company stated. “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.”

While the wait may be longer, it seems Rockstar is committed to delivering a game that lives up to the massive expectations—without burning out its developers in the process.