GTA 6 Aims to Shatter “Extraordinary Expectations” Despite Delay, Take-Two CEO Vows

The gaming world collectively holds its breath for Grand Theft Auto 6—a title carrying unprecedented anticipation since 2013’s record-shattering GTA V. With over 195 million copies sold globally (Take-Two FY2024 Report), Rockstar Games faces colossal pressure. Yet Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick insists the studio isn’t buckling. “Rockstar’s whole stock and trade is to have extraordinary expectations and still beat them,” Zelnick declared to CNBC on August 11, 2025. “I know that’s their goal.”

Can GTA 6 Possibly Meet Fan Demands?

Fans’ sky-high expectations crystallized when Rockstar’s December 2023 reveal trailer amassed 93 million views in 24 hours—smashing YouTube records. But this frenzy intensified scrutiny. After initially targeting a late 2025 launch, Rockstar delayed GTA 6 to May 26, 2026, citing quality concerns. “We need this extra time to deliver at the level you expect,” the developer stated in May 2025.

Zelnick acknowledges the weight of this legacy. GTA V generated $7.7 billion to date (MarketWatch 2024), setting a near-impossible benchmark. “We try not to pump expectations,” he told CNBC, but emphasized Rockstar’s unique capacity to overdeliver despite “a lot going on” with other projects. Industry analysts note the delay aligns with Rockstar’s pattern; both GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 saw similar postponements before critical acclaim.

Will a $100 Price Tag Deter Gamers?

Speculation about premium pricing intensified when Zelnick told Variety he wouldn’t rule out a $100 base cost. “Our goal is to deliver more value than what we charge,” he reiterated—a stance consistent since 2024 rumors emerged. While standard AAA titles cost $70, Zelnick hinted at “special editions” exceeding $100, banking on perceived value. Market research from Newzoo suggests 62% of fans would pay above $80 if the game “revolutionizes open-world design.”

Rockstar’s silence on gameplay details fuels both skepticism and hope. Leaked documents suggest unprecedented map scale and AI-driven NPCs, but the studio’s reputation hinges on execution. As Zelnick noted, “It’s going to be an amazing game”—a promise millions await to test.

GTA 6’s path to 2026 remains fraught with challenges, but Rockstar’s history of defying expectations offers cautious optimism. For now, patience is the price of admission to what could be gaming’s next evolution—stay tuned for updates as the countdown continues.

Must Know

Q: When is GTA 6 releasing?
A: Rockstar confirmed a May 26, 2026, release after delaying it from late 2025 to ensure quality.

Q: Why was GTA 6 delayed?
A: Developers stated they needed “extra time” to meet fan expectations and technical ambitions, per their May 2025 announcement.

Q: What did Take-Two’s CEO say about GTA 6’s expectations?
A: Strauss Zelnick acknowledged “extraordinary expectations” but expressed confidence Rockstar will exceed them, as reported by CNBC.

Q: Could GTA 6 cost $100?
A: Zelnick hasn’t ruled it out, emphasizing “delivering more value than charged.” Special editions may exceed $100.

Q: What platforms will GTA 6 launch on?
A: While unconfirmed, industry leaks point to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S first, with PC likely later.

Q: What’s known about GTA 6’s setting?
A: The trailer confirms a return to Vice City (Miami-inspired) with dual protagonists—a franchise first.