In response to mounting concerns from investors, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has issued a statement addressing the recent delay of *Grand Theft Auto VI* (*GTA 6*). The highly anticipated title—often described as the most significant entertainment release in gaming history—was originally scheduled for a fall 2025 launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. However, Rockstar Games has officially pushed the release date to May 26, 2026, shifting the game’s financial impact from fiscal year 2026 to 2027.
The announcement triggered an immediate reaction in the stock market, with shares of Take-Two falling by nearly 8% in early trading. Despite this short-term volatility, the company remains confident in its long-term growth trajectory. In a formal statement posted on its corporate website, Take-Two reaffirmed its outlook for Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027, projecting sequential increases in Net Bookings (revenue) and anticipating record-breaking performance across both periods.
Zelnick personally voiced full support for Rockstar's decision, emphasizing the importance of creative integrity and product excellence. “We fully support Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations,” he stated.
He further assured shareholders that while the delay is significant, the company remains committed to delivering sustained business growth over the coming years. “While we take the movement of our titles seriously and appreciate the vast and deep global anticipation for Grand Theft Auto VI, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence,” Zelnick added. “As we continue to release our phenomenal pipeline, we expect to deliver a multi-year period of growth in our business and enhanced value for our shareholders.”
What’s Next for Take-Two?
With *GTA 6* no longer contributing to FY26 revenue, attention turns to Take-Two’s broader portfolio. The publisher owns both Rockstar Games and 2K Games, giving it access to a diverse lineup of upcoming titles. Among the most notable releases set for 2025 include *Borderlands 4* from Gearbox Software, due out in September, and *Mafia: The Old Country*, an ambitious new entry in the storied crime series. Additionally, 2K Sports is expected to launch *NBA 2K26*, continuing its annual tradition of high-performing sports simulations.
Looking further ahead, fans of immersive storytelling have much to anticipate. Ken Levine’s next project, *Judas*, is currently in development under the BioShock creator’s studio, Ghost Story Games. A new *BioShock* title is also reportedly in the works at Hangar 13, developer of *Mafia III* and *L.A. Noire.*
Managing Expectations
Despite these promising projects, none are expected to match the commercial scale of *GTA 6*. The delay effectively removes what could have been one of the most profitable launches in entertainment history from Take-Two’s FY26 earnings, leaving a noticeable gap in projected revenues. However, many *GTA* fans have expressed understanding, acknowledging the complexity and ambition behind Rockstar’s latest open-world masterpiece.
That said, some fans had hoped for a new in-game screenshot or gameplay trailer to help ease the disappointment of the extended wait. As of now, Rockstar has not shared any visual updates alongside the new release date.
