GTA 6 Release Date: When It Launches and What We Know So Far

Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled to launch on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Rockstar and parent company Take-Two have confirmed the date after two delays: the game was first pushed from fall 2025 to May 26, 2026, then to November 19, 2026. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick referenced the "highly anticipated launch of Grand Theft Auto VI on November 19th" in a recent earnings report. No PC release has been announced for day one; a PC port is widely expected to follow later.

Background: The Long Wait

GTA V released in 2013 and has sold hundreds of millions of copies across console and PC. Rockstar has supported it with GTA Online for over a decade. The first GTA VI trailer landed in December 2023 and confirmed a return to Vice City (Florida) and a playable duo, Lucia and a male protagonist. Hype and preorder interest have been enormous; the delays have been a recurring headline. Gaming Bible, Screen Rant, GameSpot, Polygon, and ESPN have all covered the release timeline and delay explanations.

Why the Delays

Rockstar said the move to November 2026 was to "finish the game with the level of polish you have come to expect and deserve." Large open-world titles often slip to avoid crunch and to hit quality bars; GTA VI is one of the most scrutinized releases in gaming. A second delay in 2026 would be a surprise given the explicit confirmation from Take-Two, but until the game ships, dates remain subject to change.

What We Know About the Game

The trailer showed a modern Vice City setting, neon-soaked streets, and glimpses of heists and chases. Two protagonists suggest a story built around partnership. Rockstar has not detailed multiplayer or a GTA Online-style mode for VI, but the commercial success of GTA Online makes some form of live component likely. Expect more trailers and marketing as 2026 approaches.

Impact on the Industry

GTA VI will dominate holiday 2026 sales and hardware; many players will buy or upgrade consoles for it. Take-Two's revenue forecasts assume a blockbuster launch. Delays have already shifted investor and fan expectations; a smooth release would reinforce Rockstar's position as the premium open-world studio.

What's Next

Watch for a new trailer, possible limited editions, and preorder details in 2026. PC and potential next-gen console timing may be announced after the console launch. Until November 19, 2026, treat that date as the current plan and any change would come from an official Rockstar or Take-Two update.