Take-Two CEO Zelnick Confirms Firm GTA 6 Release Date Amid Fan Concerns

The gaming world collectively held its breath when Rockstar Games delayed Grand Theft Auto VI to 2026 – but Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has doubled down on the new May 2026 release window, dismissing speculation about further delays. In a recent CNBC interview, Zelnick expressed “very, very high” confidence in the timeline despite Rockstar’s silence since their May 2024 delay announcement. With over 200 million copies sold globally for GTA V, the stakes for its successor are monumental, making Zelnick’s assurance a pivotal moment for anxious fans awaiting gaming’s most anticipated title.

Will GTA 6 Actually Launch by May 2026?

Industry analysts had flagged November-December 2025 as a critical window for pre-orders, but Zelnick’s unwavering stance suggests Rockstar is laser-focused on delivery. When pressed about his conviction regarding the May 26, 2026, release during the CNBC interview (timestamp 4:22), Zelnick emphasized GTA 6 remains Rockstar’s “primary focus,” stating: “We’re highly focused on making sure the experience is great… consumers have paid a fair price for it.”

Though rumors swirl about competing projects – including a Grand Theft Auto IV remake and Max Payne remasters – Zelnick implied these wouldn’t derail development. His confidence stems from Rockstar’s history of delivering “more value than the initial price tag,” referencing their post-launch support for GTA Online and Red Dead Redemption 2.

What Challenges Could Still Impact the Timeline?

While Zelnick’s certainty calms nerves, development hurdles persist. AAA titles like GTA 6 face complex pressures:

• Technical Ambition: Leaked footage revealed unprecedented scale, including a Vice City map doubling GTA V’s size. Polishing this demands time.
• Workplace Culture: After 2018 reports of Rockstar’s “crunch culture,” the studio pledged sustainable workflows, potentially affecting schedules.
• Market Expectations: With GTA V generating $7.7 billion (Take-Two FY2023 report), commercial pressures are immense.

Notably, Zelnick sidestepped questions about a rumored $100 price point but stressed Rockstar’s commitment to “fair pricing” relative to content depth.

Despite industry turbulence, Zelnick’s track record lends credibility: Under his leadership, Take-Two delayed GTA 6 only once – a rarity for modern blockbusters like Cyberpunk 2077 or Starfield, which faced multiple setbacks. With 18 months until launch, his confidence signals Rockstar is entering the final stretch without red flags.

Must Know

Why was GTA 6 delayed to 2026?

Rockstar announced the delay in May 2024, citing a need for “polish” beyond their initial late-2025 target. Complexities in next-gen AI systems and map density reportedly contributed.

Could GTA 6 be delayed again?

Zelnick’s “very, very high” confidence suggests minimal risk. Take-Two’s investor forecasts also hinge on FY2026 revenue spikes, making further delays financially unlikely.

What other projects might distract Rockstar?

Rumors persist about remakes of GTA IV and Max Payne. However, Zelnick confirmed GTA 6 is the “primary focus,” with spin-offs likely handled by secondary teams.

Will GTA 6 cost $100?

Zelnick avoided confirming pricing but noted Rockstar games historically deliver “more value than charged.” Industry analysts predict a $70 base price with premium editions up to $150.