Is GTA 6 really delayed until 2026? Here’s what to know

The long-awaited Grand Theft Auto VI may not be arriving as early as fans had hoped. Fresh reports suggest Rockstar Games could be eyeing a later launch date than previously speculated. Gaming insider Tom Henderson has hinted that an updated timeline for the blockbuster release is currently under consideration.

Spanish publication Marca has also indicated that players may not get their hands on the game until October 2026, with Henderson suggesting an official statement could land sometime in November.

Release Window Shifts Again

Initial whispers in the gaming community suggested only a minor delay, pushing GTA 6 to around September 2026. However, the latest update paints a different picture—one that pushes the launch even further back. Henderson, while cautious with details, expressed doubt about earlier dates, insisting that nothing strongly points to a spring or summer release.

In his words, May feels “unrealistic” as a target, reinforcing the notion that Rockstar’s perfectionist standards are likely behind the extended timeline. According to the Marca report, October 2026 seems increasingly plausible.

Why the Delay?

While Rockstar has yet to comment officially, industry watchers believe the shift serves two main purposes:

1. Polishing the experience – refining gameplay, visuals, and mechanics to meet the studio’s high standards.

2. Strategic timing – positioning the launch closer to the holiday season to maximize sales and prepare for next-gen console and PC rollouts.

   
   
   

What’s Next?

If Henderson’s predictions hold true, Rockstar may clear the air in November, either confirming the speculation or unveiling its official release roadmap. Until then, fans should prepare for a potential October 2026 debut at the earliest.

FAQs

Q1. When will GTA 6 be released?
Current reports suggest that Grand Theft Auto VI may launch in October 2026, though Rockstar Games has not officially confirmed the date.

Q2. Why is GTA 6 delayed?
Industry insiders say the delay allows Rockstar to further refine gameplay and graphics, while also aligning the release with the lucrative holiday shopping season.

Q3. Has Rockstar Games confirmed the GTA 6 release date?
No. Rockstar has not officially announced a final release date, but an update is expected around November 2025.

Q4. Will GTA 6 come out earlier than October 2026?
While earlier rumors suggested September 2026, most sources now believe October 2026 is the earliest likely window.

Q5. What platforms will GTA 6 be available on?
Though unconfirmed, GTA 6 is widely expected to launch first on next-gen consoles (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S) with a PC release to follow.