The gaming industry is in flux after Rockstar Games delayed Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) to May 2026. According to a Reuters report, the news sent shockwaves through the industry, forcing publishers to rethink their launch strategies and investment plans.
Publishers Rush to Fill the Void
With GTA 6 no longer launching in fall 2025, other publishers are moving to fill the gap. Electronic Arts (EA) is set to release a new Battlefield game, beating Rockstar’s giant to the punch. EA CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the importance of strategic timing to maximize a game’s potential. Take-Two Interactive is also planning to launch Mafia: The Old Country during this period, capitalizing on the absence of GTA 6.
The delay has significant financial implications. Take-Two Interactive’s stock dropped 7% due to the postponement. Analysts had projected GTA 6 would generate around $3 billion in its first year, making it one of the biggest launches ever.
Industry Reaction
Renowned game developer Hideo Kojima weighed in, comparing GTA 6’s impact to a blockbuster movie release that captures the public’s attention and overshadows competitors. The game’s anticipation is so high that its delay has caused a ripple effect throughout the industry.
2026: A New Year, Same Expectations
Although GTA 6 is delayed, 2026 is shaping up to be a significant year for gaming. Highly anticipated titles like Fable reboot, Housemarque’s Saros, and FromSoftware’s The Duskbloods are on the horizon. However, GTA 6’s shadow will continue to influence the market until its release.