GTA 6 Release Date: Take-Two CEO Reveals Original Window Amid Revised Launch Plans

In a recent revelation, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick disclosed that Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) was initially planned to be out in late 2025, with a targeted window between November and December. This news came after Rockstar Games announced a new release date, which is now scheduled for May 26, 2026. Zelnick described the delay as a short delay of under six months and stressed that it was a strategic move to further develop the quality of the game and not a reaction to development issues.

Take-Two CEO Reveals Original GTA 6 Release Date Amid Revised Launch Plans

Speaking with CNBC in an interview, Zelnick highlighted how aiding development teams in reaching excellence is crucial. According to him, the extra time given to GTA 6 to develop is to help Rockstar Games realize its creative vision without compromise. This is consistent with Rockstar's past trend of sticking to scheduled release dates, as with games such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto V, which, despite some initial delays, went on to release successfully on their eventual designated dates.

The postponement, though disappointing to some enthusiasts, has been welcomed with an understanding that many see it as a strategic decision to better refine the game. Experts estimate that this delay can lead to a projected $2.7 billion loss in revenue for the gaming sector in 2025, indicating the huge effect of large game launches on the market

Even with the economic impact, Zelnick was firm in his belief in the new release date, assuring shareholders that the postponement was a strategic investment in quality. He went ahead to state that once Rockstar sets its sights on a particular release date, they are usually able to meet it, implying that another postponement of GTA 6 is unlikely. 

As tensions mount, the gaming world is awaiting more news, with speculations that GTA 6 will be breaking new records in the world of entertainment.