GTA 6 Possibly Delayed As Rockstar Seeks “Perfection”

Take-Two Interactive's latest earnings report now specifically lists GTA 6's new release window as "calendar 2025."


To be fair, Rockstar can take all the time that it needs to release GTA 6 and most wouldn't mind the longer wait.
To be fair, Rockstar can take all the time that it needs to release GTA 6 and most wouldn't mind the longer wait.

We’ve got good news and bad news for fans waiting for more information about the release date of Grand Theft Auto 6.

The good news is that Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, has just reassured fans and investors alike that Grand Theft Auto 6 is on track for a 2025 release. The bad news is that its launch date will fall under the “2025 calendar year” and not the “2025 fiscal year.”

This much-needed update comes amidst heavy speculation and anticipation for the next GTA game following the release of its trailer last year.

The trailer for GTA 6 is full of moments like these that have fans hyped for how immersive the actual game will be once it comes out.
The trailer for GTA 6 is full of moments like these that have fans hyped for how immersive the actual game will be once it comes out.

The conversation around the game’s launch timeline was notably clarified during Take-Two’s recent earnings call, where the company’s executives shared insights into their strategic planning and addressed the eagerly awaited title’s development progress.

Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two, emphasized the company’s unparalleled commitment to a high level of quality and borderline perfection in the development of GTA 6. “We’re seeking perfection, and when we feel we’ve optimized creatively, that’s the time to release,” Zelnick stated. This approach highlights Take-Two’s dedication to ensuring that GTA 6 not only lives up to the legacy of the Grand Theft Auto series but also sets new benchmarks for open-world gaming.

Fans around the world eagerly await the opportunity to dive back into the series’ unique if controversial blend of storytelling, action, and exploration. The game’s setting in Vice City, a fictional representation of Miami, and the introduction of a pair of protagonists, including a series-first female lead, have further fueled excitement for what promises to be another groundbreaking entry in the franchise.

Take-Two’s financial projections have long served a source of speculation regarding GTA 6’s release timeline. Initially, the company’s guidance suggested a potential early 2025 launch, but recent adjustments have pointed to a later release within the same calendar year.

Analysts and competitors, including Ubisoft, have interpreted these changes as indication of a possibility that GTA 6 may launch after March 2025.

Furthermore, Take-Two’s emphasis on achieving balance between innovation and perfection has led to careful planning and development timelines. The company states it’s working on a significant cost reduction program across its business operations while aiming to optimize expenses without resorting to workforce cuts. This strategic approach ensures that Take-Two can invest in growth and innovation while maintaining efficiency and effectiveness in its operations.

Nevertheless, the response to the initial GTA 6 trailer has been overwhelmingly positive. As Zelnick pointed out, the anticipation for GTA 6 is “much, much higher” compared to previous entries, reflecting the game’s potential to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

Ultimately, given the company’s commitment to quality, combined with Rockstar’s history of delivering immersive and engaging open-world experiences, suggests that GTA 6 will be well worth the wait.

Ray Ampoloquio
Ray Ampoloquio // Articles: 7186
With over 20 years of gaming experience and technical expertise building computers, I provide trusted coverage and analysis of gaming hardware, software, upcoming titles, and broader entertainment trends. // Full Bio