Although the postponement of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 2025), which had an expected release date of fall 6, to 2026 initially caused disappointment among some players, this decision is based on Rockstar Games' effort to remain fully faithful to its creative vision. Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick emphasized that this postponement was inevitable for the game's creative vision to be fully realized.
“Perfection” Priority for GTA 6
According to the statements made after Take-Two's latest financial report, GTA 6's new release date has been moved to the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 (April-June 2026). CEO Strauss Zelnick stated that there was a clear reason behind this postponement, and that the need for additional polish as the game approached its final stages was necessary for Rockstar to realize its vision without any restrictions.
Although this postponement decision is a development that directly affects Take-Two's short-term fiscal year goals, Zelnick emphasized that short-term potential losses can be sacrificed for long-term quality. Noting that strong productions such as Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country and NBA 2K will be released in the new fiscal year, Zelnick stated that the company is generally following a positive process. Aware that the postponements are challenging, the CEO expressed that they fully support the development teams' efforts to achieve perfection.
Clear Statements from CEO Zelnick
Strauss Zelnick had previously made a very optimistic prediction in an interview in February that GTA 6 would be released in the fall of 2025. However, with this new statement that came three months later, it was announced that the game had been delayed to May 26, 2026. Zelnick stated that this change was made in line with the needs that became clear as the game entered the final stages of development. The CEO added in his statement this time that they stand behind the decision to postpone and that they usually stick to a clear date when they give it. This statement shows that Take-Two made the decision to postpone after careful consideration and is determined to stick to the new date.
Great Expectations Continue
The second trailer released for GTA 6 and the game details that followed have created great excitement and anticipation among players. There have even been speculations that an iconic location like Liberty City could be added to the map at or after the game's launch. Although it is not yet clear what kind of marketing strategy Rockstar Games will follow in the coming period, excitement continues to grow for GTA 6, which is expected to be one of the biggest productions in the gaming world. Although the decision to postpone upsets some players, Rockstar's perfectionist approach and commitment to its vision increases faith in the final quality of the game.
