- By Supratik Das
- Sat, 03 May 2025 06:43 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Rockstar Games has officially pushed back the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6). The game, which was initially set to be released in 2025, will now be available on May 26, 2026, as per a statement posted on all Rockstar's official social media platforms.
The company acknowledged the enthusiasm of fans and regretted the delay, saying, “The interest surrounding GTA 6 has been humbling for the entire team.” Despite the prolonged wait, gamers are still optimistic, especially after the explosive reaction to the initial trailer that dropped in December 2023.
Vice City Returns in GTA 6?
GTA 6 sees the return of Vice City, the classic, neon-lit city based on Miami, which originally debuted in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002). But this time, the map moves beyond city borders into the wider fictional state of Leonida. Fans, through the use of screenshots, trailer stills, and thorough scrutiny of in-game clues, developed a very accurate fan-led mapping project. Those areas featured in this speculation map include Kelly County, Leonard, and Gator Keys' marshy south end.
New Characters And Gameplay
In a first for the franchise, GTA 6 will have Lucia, who is the female protagonist. A dual-character storyline has been speculated to be based on the world-famous criminal couple Bonnie and Clyde. The identity of the male counterpart is still in the closet. Rockstar has hinted at significant improvements in gameplay mechanics, such as better NPC interactions, better stealth features, and a more responsive police system. GTA V characters Michael, Franklin, and Trevor will not be making a comeback, as the new game is likely to have a new storyline with an entirely new cast.
Lucia, the female protagonist. | Credit: Rockstar Games
Rockstar hasn't exposed any particular mission information, the wide map gives the impression of varied locations for heists and high-risk missions. From high-density city neighborhoods of Vice City to isolated swamp cities, the players can look forward to all kinds of criminal operations and tactical possibilities.
Also read: 5 Must Play Free Games To Fill The Void Until GTA 6 Launches in 2026
Approximate Price And Pre-order Deals
GTA 6 will have a premium price. In India, the base game could be around Rs. 5,999, and special or collector's editions would cost up to Rs. 7,299. In the US, insiders are placing the price at about 100 USD(about Rs. 9,000). But Rockstar Games has not started taking pre-orders yet, they should start doing so at some point during 2025. The game should provide bonus items and collector's items digitally for early purchasers.
As the countdown to May 2026 begins, the hype surrounding GTA 6 remains stronger than ever. Even after the delay, fans are still going in-depth with theories, mapping projects, and story speculation, eagerly waiting for the next major update from Rockstar Games.
