Grand Theft Auto 6 is still scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, according to publisher Take-Two, which has reaffirmed the date in recent investor calls. However, a former Rockstar developer has cast doubt on that timeline, saying he "would not be shocked" if the game slips again.
Former Rockstar Animator Shares Concerns
Mike York, a former Rockstar animator who worked on GTA 5, told Indy100 that based on his experience, another delay is possible. "Personally after being there and working on GTA 5, I don't currently work there so I can't give confidence based off that, but based on my previous experience, they could delay it again," he said.
York emphasized that nothing is ever set in stone with Rockstar: "Straight up, they could delay it again. They can. They can do whatever they want and people will wait right now, it doesn't matter. If they need to do what they need to do, they'll do it."
Potential Reasons for Delay
According to York, even a minor issue could trigger a postponement. "So if November comes around and they're thinking 'this final mission we have is still not looking very good and there are still a few bugs in this final mission', they'll push it six more months if they have to," he explained. "I would not be shocked at all. I don't think it would hurt them or anything."
Upcoming Gameplay Reveal
Rockstar recently announced an extended look at the game will premiere on Netflix on August 27, with a YouTube release to follow. This is expected to be the first real gameplay footage, offering players more confidence in the November release date. However, as York notes, until the game is in players' hands, a slip into 2027 remains possible.
