The long-awaited next instalment in the Grand Theft Auto franchise, GTA VI, will be released on May 26, 2026, developer Rockstar Games announced on Friday (2).
Originally expected to launch later this year—12 years after its predecessor GTA V—the game’s delay has frustrated fans who have waited over a decade. GTA V remains the second-best-selling video game of all time and continues to enjoy popularity through its online multiplayer mode.
In the face of the delay, fans have taken to social media with humorous and pointed posts, such as “We’ll have World War 3 before GTA VI,” referencing heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Kashmir.
Rockstar Games, known for its meticulous and perfectionist development process, has a history of delaying major titles, as seen with Red Dead Redemption 2, released in 2018 after a similarly long wait. In a statement released Friday, Rockstar apologised for the delay while acknowledging the global anticipation surrounding the title.
“With every game we’ve released, our goal has always been to exceed your expectations—and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver the level of quality you expect and deserve,” the company said.
The first trailer for GTA VI, released in December 2023, amassed over 100 million views within days. The 90-second clip revealed two main characters, including the franchise’s first female protagonist, and confirmed the return to Vice City—a fictionalised version of Miami, Florida. While the GTA series remains immensely popular, it has also faced criticism for allegedly glorifying violence and crime. However, others argue the games offer a biting social commentary on contemporary American life.
