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Grand Theft Auto 6 delayed again to November 2026
Rockstar Games has postponed the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 for a second time, pushing the launch to 19 November 2026, the developer announced on Thursday. Originally slated for autumn 2025, the game was first delayed to May 2026 before this latest setback.
Developer cites need for 'polish'
In a statement, Rockstar acknowledged the frustration among fans but emphasized the need for additional time to meet the "level of polish" players have come to expect. The company apologized for the extended wait and expressed excitement about the game's setting-a fictional U.S. state called Leonida, inspired by Florida and a modern reimagining of Vice City, Rockstar's take on Miami.
The latest entry in the blockbuster franchise, GTA 5, launched in 2013 and remains the second best-selling game of all time, buoyed by its enduringly popular online mode. Despite its age, the game continues to attract a dedicated player base.
Fan reactions: frustration and humor
The announcement triggered a wave of reactions across social media, blending humor, frustration, and resignation. Streamer IShowSpeed, known for his dramatic style, joked during a livestream, "I'm gonna be 50 before this game comes out. I might have kids, I might have a wife."
Meanwhile, the Lofi Girl YouTube account, famous for its endless study livestream, quipped that its animated character "might actually graduate before GTA 6" arrives. Even brands joined in: Domino's Pizza tweeted, "Call us if you need help delivering."
Some fans, however, adopted a more measured tone, arguing that a delayed but polished game would be preferable to a rushed release.
Delay follows layoffs and unionization disputes
The announcement comes on the heels of Rockstar's recent decision to lay off 31 workers from its UK studios on 30 October. The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which represents gaming industry employees, has accused the company of targeting staff to prevent unionization efforts. Protests erupted outside Rockstar's offices in Edinburgh and London on Thursday, with the IWGB leading rallies. The BBC has reached out to Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, for comment.
Limited pre-release details
Rockstar has maintained strict secrecy around GTA 6, releasing only two trailers to date. The second, unveiled in May 2025, garnered over 100 million views and offered a deeper look at protagonists Jason and Lucia-a criminal couple navigating life in Leonida-alongside new characters and locations. The nearly three-minute trailer hinted at the game's expanded scope and narrative depth.
History of delays and high stakes
Rockstar has a track record of postponing major releases in pursuit of perfection. Red Dead Redemption 2, the studio's last flagship title, faced a roughly year-long delay before its eventual launch. Industry analysts note that escalating player expectations, coupled with soaring development costs, have made publishers increasingly cautious about releasing unfinished products.
When GTA 6 finally arrives, it is poised to be one of the most expensive video games ever produced-while also potentially shattering sales records. Whether it will justify the prolonged anticipation, however, remains an open question.
