BOSTON (AP) – Fans of the immensely popular video game series Grand Theft Auto will have to wait longer for the much-anticipated release of its newest installment. Rockstar Games announced in a post on X on Friday that the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed until May 26, 2026. The company expressed its regret over the postponement, especially as the release of the game has been a topic of speculation for several years. However, specific reasons for the change from the previously anticipated fall 2023 launch were not disclosed.
In its statement, Rockstar emphasized its commitment to exceeding fan expectations. The company remarked, “With every game we have released, the goal has been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.” Consequently, the delay had a tangible impact on the market, as shares of Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar's parent company, fell nearly 7% following the announcement.
Strauss Zelnick, the chairman and CEO of Take-Two Interactive Software, showed his support for Rockstar, emphasizing the importance of allowing creative teams the time needed to fulfill their vision. He stated that they still expect the game to deliver a “groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations.” Zelnick reaffirmed Take-Two's steadfast commitment to excellence, noting that the company looks forward to a multi-year growth period within its business and creating enhanced shareholder value.
The reaction among fans to the delay was mixed; many expressed disappointment, while others appeared to have resigned themselves to the prolonged wait. This reaction is not surprising, as various rumors had previously suggested release dates for 2024 and eventually for this year. On a dedicated Reddit forum for the game, many fans reflected on past delays with skepticism, suggesting that another postponement could be on the horizon. However, some adopted a more optimistic viewpoint, suggesting that having an exact release date might indicate that the launch is indeed forthcoming.
The last substantial buzz surrounding Grand Theft Auto VI occurred in 2023, when a trailer was inadvertently leaked online. To counteract the situation, Rockstar released the highly anticipated first look of the game 15 hours ahead of schedule. This 90-second trailer gave fans an exciting glimpse into what to expect, hinting that the upcoming installment would take place in a Miami-inspired Vice City and feature a female protagonist named Lucia, breaking new ground for the iconic franchise.
As anticipation continues to build, it remains uncertain whether the delay will affect any of the previously revealed details regarding Grand Theft Auto VI. Nonetheless, fans are eager to see how the game develops as the new release date approaches.
