GTA VI Release Date Rumored to be Pushed to 2026

Former Rockstar Technical Director Hints at Delay

In a recent interview, former Rockstar technical director Leslie Benzies hinted that the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) may not be released until 2026.

Benzies' Statement Fuels Speculation

Benzies, who worked on previous GTA titles and is now the founder of Build a Rocket Boy Games, made the comments during an appearance on the "Game Maker's Notebook" podcast.

When asked about the possible release date for GTA VI, Benzies said, "I would say in the next four or five years, if I was making a guess."

Factors Contributing to the Rumored Delay

Benzies did not provide any specific reasons for the potential delay, but industry analysts suggest that several factors could be contributing to it.

• Development Complexity: GTA VI is expected to be the most ambitious GTA game to date, with a vast open world and numerous new features.
• Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted production schedules across the gaming industry.
• Rockstar's Quality Standards: Rockstar Games is known for its high-quality games and is unlikely to rush the release of GTA VI.

Impact on Gamers and the Industry

The rumored delay of GTA VI has sparked mixed reactions from gamers.

Some are disappointed by the prospect of having to wait several more years, while others are understanding of the challenges involved in developing such a complex game.

The news also has implications for the gaming industry as a whole.

GTA is one of the most popular and influential video game franchises, and its next installment is sure to have a major impact on the market.

Conclusion

While Rockstar Games has not officially confirmed the rumored 2026 release date for GTA VI, Leslie Benzies' comments have added fuel to the speculation.

The delay is likely due to a combination of factors, including the game's complexity, the pandemic, and Rockstar's commitment to quality.

Gamers may be disappointed by the potential wait, but the industry is also likely to be anticipating one of the most significant video game releases in years.