GTA 6 Release Timeline: Everything We Know About the Launch So Far

You might be wondering when you can finally get your hands on GTA 6. Rockstar has confirmed the release is now set for May 26, 2026, a delay from the originally planned Fall 2025. This means you’ll need to adjust your expectations and plans accordingly. The game will launch first on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, with a PC version likely to come later. But there’s more to the story—details about characters, setting, and preorder options are shaping up.

Official GTA 6 Release Date and Delay Details

Although Rockstar initially planned to release GTA 6 in Fall 2025, the official launch date has been pushed back to May 26, 2026.

This delay was confirmed by Rockstar in May 2025, as they need extra development time to guarantee the game meets high-quality standards.

You can take comfort in the fact that Take-Two’s CEO has indicated another delay is unlikely, which gives more certainty about this new release date.

Since the game’s active development was first announced in February 2022, updates have consistently confirmed progress.

While pre-order details haven’t been shared yet, you can expect announcements about them in late 2025 or early 2026.

Staying informed on these updates will help you plan ahead and support others interested in the game’s launch.

Confirmed Platforms and Potential PC Launch

Since GTA 6 targets the latest gaming hardware, you can expect it to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S only, with no versions planned for older consoles like PS4 or Xbox One.

This focus lets Rockstar enhance world design and gameplay, making the most of modern systems.

Regarding PC, the launch isn’t confirmed yet but likely follows the console release, as with past titles.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. GTA 6 won’t appear on last-gen consoles due to hardware limits.
2. The PC version usually arrives months or even a year later.
3. Cross-play and cross-save features remain uncertain, so multiplayer experience might vary.

Main Characters and Story Overview

When you plunge into GTA 6, you’ll follow the lives of two main characters, Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, whose story draws inspiration from the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo.

You’ll experience their journey through a tense criminal conspiracy in the fictional state of Leonida, where trust and betrayal play vital roles.

Lucia is the series’ first non-optional female protagonist, driven by her goal to fulfill her mother’s dreams despite being embroiled in crime.

Jason’s mission to rescue Lucia from prison adds urgency to the narrative.

Alongside them, you’ll meet characters like Cal Hampton and DreQuan Priest, who deepen the story’s complexity.

The game also tackles themes of modern crime and social media satire, offering a darker, more realistic look at what happens when an easy score goes wrong.

Setting and Map Expansion Insights

As you explore GTA 6, you’ll find yourself traversing the vibrant and varied world of Vice City, a fictional take on Miami, set within the larger state of Leonida.

This expansive map includes diverse locations like Grassrivers, Leonida Keys, and Mount Kalaga National Park, blending urban streets with wetlands and sandy beaches.

The design supports vehicle-centric gameplay, letting you navigate highways, swamps, and coastal roads with ease.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Expect one of the largest maps in the series, offering a rich mix of environments for missions and exploration.
2. The map’s variety enhances strategic choices, from city chases to off-road adventures.
3. Future expansions may introduce areas like the Everglades, broadening your experience through updates or DLC.

This setting encourages you to serve your gameplay goals with versatility and depth.

Pre-Order Information and Pricing Speculation

Although official pre-order details for GTA 6 haven’t been released yet, you should prepare for announcements expected in late 2025 or early 2026.

Given the franchise’s popularity, high demand for pre-orders is likely, so staying alert will help you secure a spot early. Analysts suggest the price could reach around $100, reflecting the game’s advanced development costs, making it one of the most expensive titles ever.

Take-Two’s CEO has hinted at variable pricing, but specific pre-order costs remain unconfirmed. You can expect a collector’s edition with digital extras aimed at early buyers.

It’s wise to monitor pricing closely during the pre-order phase, as competitive discounts or deals may appear before the official release. Being informed will help you make the best purchasing decision.