GTA 6 Delay: EA Rejoices, Others React Variously

The delay of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) has sparked a range of reactions across the gaming industry, with Electronic Arts (EA) expressing satisfaction with their Battlefield release, while other developers navigate their strategies differently. Dive into how EA views their upcoming release and the diverse responses from the gaming community to GTA 6's delay.

GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions

Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"

EA has solidified the release window for Battlefield following the delay of GTA 6. In their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson announced that Battlefield is set to launch in March 2026. He expressed optimism about the release, stating that the delay of GTA 6 has made the launch window "clearer than it was before."

When questioned about the impact of major releases on other game launches, Wilson noted that few companies can expedite their game releases to avoid competing with GTA 6, as advancing release dates is challenging. However, he was pleased with the outcome for Battlefield, which will now hit the market two months before GTA 6.

The delay of GTA 6 has been a significant concern for developers and publishers, especially after the initial trailer release. Many are recalibrating their release plans, but EA feels confident in their strategy. Wilson emphasized that EA has been strategically planning Battlefield's release window to maximize value for both the franchise and its players.

"Battlefield is set to launch in March 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC," Wilson confirmed.

Death Stranding 2 Will Come Out Regardless of GTA 6’s Release Window

Hideo Kojima, the director of Death Stranding 2 (DS2), acknowledged the typical industry practice of avoiding direct competition with major releases like GTA 6. However, during a Koji Pro radio broadcast, Kojima affirmed that DS2's release date was set long ago and would not shift.

He mentioned hearing rumors of GTA 6's potential November release and how other companies typically adjust their schedules. Kojima likened this to the film industry's reaction to a Mission Impossible release: "For instance, if a new Mission Impossible movie were to release in May, others wouldn't be able to compete with that and would move elsewhere."

Despite the industry norm, Kojima is committed to sticking to DS2's development timeline, even aiming for a September release. With DS2 now 95% complete, its launch is imminent.

Other Developers Steer Clear, Devolver Digital Says Bring It On

For many developers, the looming release of GTA 6 is a critical factor in planning their own game launches. According to The Game Business Show, multiple game executives are prepared to adjust their release dates to avoid clashing with GTA 6.

An anonymous executive shared, "We will nudge our releases back or forward three weeks to avoid it. Of course, the problem is everyone is going to do the same. So three to four weeks before or after GTA 6, you’re going to get a load of games dropping content in what they believe will be the safe zone."

Conversely, Cult of the Lamb publisher Devolver Digital boldly announced plans to release a game on the same day as GTA 6. While the specific game remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital has a range of potential titles, including sequels to Cult of the Lamb, Inscription, Hotline Miami, or a new IP.

The delay of GTA 6 has sent ripples throughout the gaming industry, prompting various strategic shifts among developers. GTA 6 is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay updated with the latest news on the game by checking out our dedicated article below!