Rockstar Games has confirmed that GTA VI will now release on May 26, 2026, shifting from the previously expected 2025 launch window. The announcement was made through an official statement shared on their verified social channels, causing immediate reactions from fans and investors alike. While Rockstar didn’t offer a specific explanation for the delay, the studio stated the additional time will ensure the game meets the quality expectations of the community.
Community reaction and new expectations
Although the delay has disappointed a large portion of the gaming community, there is a silver lining. Fans now have a clear and specific release date for one of the most anticipated games in recent history. The absence of a definitive timeline until now had created uncertainty, but this announcement brings renewed clarity to the game’s development path. The studio remains committed to delivering an industry-defining experience, reinforcing trust among longtime followers of the franchise.
Source: Rockstar
Take-Two’s stock drops after delay announcement
The delay has triggered significant financial consequences for Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company. Shortly after the announcement, Take-Two’s shares dropped by 11%, representing a market value loss of approximately $4 billion. This downturn reflects the importance of GTA VI in the company’s fiscal outlook, especially after previously suggesting that 2025 would be a landmark year for revenue thanks to the game’s original launch plan.
Source: Google
Market and investor implications for 2025
Take-Two had projected exceptional financial performance for 2025, largely tied to the release of GTA VI. The announcement attracted new investors and drove the company’s valuation to one of its highest levels in recent years. With the new release window set for Q2 2026, those projections must now be revised, forcing the company to reassess its fiscal targets. Despite this setback, analysts remain optimistic that the game’s eventual release will restore confidence and potentially drive a significant recovery in early 2026.