Rockstar Games pushes GTA 6 launch back, final touches in progress

Rockstar Games has once again pushed back the release of its highly anticipated title, Grand Theft Auto 6, leaving fans both anxious and hopeful. The studio announced that the extra time is needed to ensure the game meets the high standards expected from the franchise.

In a brief note on social media, Rockstar said the team requires several additional months to polish the game and iron out potential bugs and glitches. The new release date is now set for November 19, 2026, marking the second official postponement since the game was first slated for fall 2025.

GTA 6 has been in development for over a decade. Its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V, released in 2013, has sold more than 220 million copies worldwide. The first trailer for GTA 6, released in December 2023, shattered online viewing records, reflecting the enormous anticipation surrounding the game.

The next instalment will launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. As with previous Rockstar titles, the PC version is expected to arrive later, though no release window has been confirmed.

Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, has maintained its financial outlook, signalling confidence that GTA 6 will still achieve a strong launch. Analysts suggest that the delay could even help boost year-end sales in 2026, as the studio focuses on delivering a more refined product.

Delays are not unusual for Rockstar. Past releases, including Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA IV, were pushed back but ultimately received critical acclaim. The company’s reputation for prioritising quality over speed has often justified the wait.

Fans have reacted with mixed feelings online. Some express frustration at the extended wait, while others support the decision, hoping the final game will be smoother and more polished.

Rockstar reminded players that building its expansive open-world games is a complex process, drawing on the studio’s experience with titles such as Red Dead, Max Payne, Midnight Club, and Manhunt.

The long wait for GTA 6 continues, but the promise of a meticulously crafted world keeps anticipation high among players worldwide.