In a significant development for the gaming community, Rockstar has announced a delay for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, now slated for release in May 2026. This postponement, extending the timeline by approximately six months, has sent ripples through the industry, eliciting a range of reactions from fans and investors alike. While some fans are grappling with disappointment, Take-Two’s shareholders are likely feeling the pressure, as the delay raises questions about the game’s trajectory and market performance.
The PC Release Dilemma
Prior to this announcement, Take-Two had confidently projected a fall 2025 release for Grand Theft Auto 6. However, the company has remained tight-lipped regarding a PC version, which has left many wondering about the future of the game on that platform. Currently, Grand Theft Auto 6 is confirmed only for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, leaving a substantial portion of the gaming community in limbo.
Obbe Vermeej aptly pointed out the vast potential audience for a PC version, noting that there are 908 million PC gamers globally. While not every player may possess the hardware required to run GTA 6, a significant number certainly do. This raises an important question: why has Rockstar not prioritized a PC release?
Take-Two’s CEO, Strauss Zelnick, acknowledged the changing landscape of gaming, emphasizing that PC has become an increasingly vital component of what was once a console-dominated business. He highlighted the enduring popularity of GTA Online, which continues to attract a dedicated player base. This suggests that a PC version of GTA 6 is not just a possibility but a likely eventuality, especially considering the success of GTA 5 on platforms like Steam.
Concerns About Timing and Quality
Despite the anticipation surrounding GTA 6, there are two pressing concerns regarding its eventual PC release. First, Rockstar and Take-Two have the luxury of time; the game is expected to be a monumental success upon launch, potentially shattering sales records. With GTA 5 serving as a benchmark, it’s clear that the game is designed to be a long-term experience, likely to evolve over the next decade. Thus, while May 26, 2026, is the current target date, it would not be surprising if further delays occur.
Second, Rockstar’s reticence about a PC version may indicate a desire to ensure that the console editions are flawless before even considering the PC launch. Historical patterns show that Rockstar has taken considerable time to transition its titles to PC, with previous releases like Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA 5 experiencing gaps of 13 and 19 months, respectively. Such a timeline could push the PC release of GTA 6 into early 2028, a scenario that many would find hard to accept.
Phil Savage, Editor-in-Chief at PC Gamer, previously expressed skepticism about the PC version stretching into 2027, but with the current developments, that outlook may now seem overly optimistic. Rockstar has a reputation for prioritizing quality and may choose to delay the PC version to ensure it meets the high standards expected by its audience.
While the eventual PC release of GTA 6 promises to deliver the most polished experience, the current uncertainty leaves many players yearning for clarity. As the gaming world awaits further updates, the anticipation continues to build, albeit with a hint of trepidation regarding the timeline ahead.
