Rockstar Games has announced that the latest instalment of its blockbuster franchise, Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6), will be available for pre-order on 25 June. The game, which is expected to be the largest gaming launch of the year, is scheduled for a final release on 19 November.
The confirmed date follows two previous delays from autumn 2025 and May 2026. In a statement regarding the second postponement, the developer explained that additional months were required to achieve the level of “polish” that fans expect and deserve, reports BBC.
Analysts estimate that the action-adventure title could be the most expensive game ever produced, with development costs exceeding $1 billion (£866 million).
For the first time in a 3D setting, GTA 6 will feature a playable female protagonist, Lucia, alongside her partner, Jason. According to details from gameplay trailers, the narrative follows the pair in a “Bonnie and Clyde-esque” adventure through the criminal underbelly of the fictional US state of Leonida, Rockstar’s reimagining of Florida.
The story reportedly centres on an “easy score” that goes wrong. Fans of the series will see a return to Vice City, inspired by Miami, which serves as the primary city within Leonida. Recent cover art released on 18 June further emphasised the setting, featuring imagery of alligators and flamingos.
The game is confirmed for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S. Currently, there is no official news regarding a PC version or a release for the Nintendo Switch 2.
While Rockstar and its parent company, Take-Two, have yet to reveal the official price, industry analysts suggest the title could be the first to be priced at $100 (£76). More details are expected when pre-sales commence in late June.
The predecessor, GTA 5, has sold nearly 230 million copies since its 2013 release, generating billions in revenue. Freelance video games journalist Vic Hood noted that the series has “continued to push technical and gameplay boundaries” and remains “extremely culturally relevant” through its satire of societal and political trends.
However, the development of the sixth chapter has faced challenges, including footage leaks caused by teenage hackers. Additionally, the developer has faced accusations of “union-busting” from former staff at Rockstar North, its Edinburgh headquarters, where teams have been working to meet November deadline.
The immense anticipation is reflected in digital engagement, with gameplay trailers garnering approximately 447 million combined views. Uncertainty remains regarding the launch of an updated online mode and how future UK age verification legislation for social media and gaming messaging may affect the title.
