The GTA 6 release date has officially been set by Rockstar Games for May 26, 2026, marking what they call “the biggest and most immersive evolution” of the Grand Theft Auto series. Take-Two Interactive repeated this launch timeline in recent earnings reports, predicting strong U.S. sales and raising their annual revenue forecast thanks to crushing excitement around GTA 6.
GTA 6 release date fame circulated for years, but Rockstar officially locked in May 26, 2026, as the day players will finally experience the next evolution of Grand Theft Auto GTA 6. This announcement followed years of leaks and thoughts.
The confirmed GTA 6 release date also reassures fans that development is in its final stretch. While Rockstar has been secretive about gameplay footage, they’ve promised “the most fascinating GTA experience ever.” For U.S. players, that means preparing for a title that could redefine open-world gaming for years to come.
GTA 6 Release Date:
Rockstar’s official announcement on May 2, 2025, confirmed the GTA 6 release date of May 26, 2026, exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Initially expected in fall 2025, the delay has been announced so Rockstar could meet its high standards of development.
Fans also noticed that GTA 6 is now wish-list on the official Rockstar website, PlayStation Store, and Xbox store, a feature that pre-order options could launch soon.
Why the Delay?
Reports suggest the fall 2025 window was always encouraged internally. Sources, including industry insiders, indicated that Rockstar pushed the date to avoid crunch culture and deliver an experience worthy of the hype.
GTA 6 Setting & Features Overview
Set in the fictional state of Leonida, a 2020s reimagining of Florida, players will explore Vice City, the Everglades-like Grassrivers, and the Leonida Keys. You’ll follow a criminal duo: Lucia Caminos, marking GTA’s first female lead, and Jason Duval. Their story, inspired by a Bonnie-and-Clyde dynamic, unfolds against a backdrop of crime and conspiracy.
Rockstar’s second reveal trailer also teased the gameplay style, the duo navigating a build map filled with nightlife, water sports, and dynamic environments.
What U.S. Gamers Should Know
Here’s what American players can expect regarding the GTA 6 release date:
The game will unlock at midnight local time, East Coast gamers will wake up to access it at 12 AM ET on May 26.
Pre-orders haven’t launched yet, but the wish-list update suggests they’re near.
A PC version is not confirmed and is expected to launch later, following Rockstar’s release strategy.