The highly anticipated video game Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) has been delayed until May 2026, according to an announcement by its developers, Rockstar Games. This postponement has impacted Take-Two Interactive's shares, causing them to tumble by 8% in early trading. Rockstar Games apologized to fans, explaining they need additional time to ensure the game meets the high-quality standards expected of the franchise.

Grand Theft Auto is one of the most successful video game series ever, with over 380 million copies sold worldwide. The sixth installment was originally scheduled for release later this year. The previous game in the series, GTA 5, was released in 2013 and has sold over 200 million copies, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time. The first trailer for GTA 6 was unveiled in December 2023.

In a statement, Rockstar Games expressed their regret, stating, "We are very sorry that this is later than you expected. 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 patience as we work to finish this game. 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."

Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick voiced support for the decision, stating, "We support fully Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking blockbuster entertainment experience."

Delays have become increasingly common in modern game development, as studios face rising production costs and pressure from players to deliver polished games upon release. This delay pushes GTA 6 out of Take-Two’s fiscal 2026 release window and into 2027, which is expected to lower booking expectations for the next fiscal year. However, the company reiterated its expectations for sequential increases in net bookings for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Investors are awaiting further details during Take-Two's fourth-quarter earnings report on May 15. Despite the delay, Take-Two has several other titles planned for the next fiscal year, including Borderlands 4 and Mafia: The Old Country.

The initial trailer for GTA 6 confirmed the game's return to Vice City, a fictional version of Miami. It also introduced Lucia, the franchise’s first female lead, and hinted at a modern-day Bonnie-and-Clyde storyline. The trailer garnered over 100 million views within 24 hours. The response to the delay on social media was mixed, with some users expressing disappointment and others welcoming the additional development time for polish.

The delay is expected to impact the wider gaming industry, as GTA 6 was anticipated to be a major catalyst for sector growth. The Grand Theft Auto series has faced criticism for its violent content, with critics accusing it of glorifying violence and encouraging criminal behavior. The game includes options for players to engage in activities such as selling drugs, fighting, robbing, and car rampages. Previous installments also included controversial gameplay options such as assaulting sex workers and visiting strip clubs.