GTA 6 Delay: EA Thrilled, Others Mixed

The delay of GTA 6 has sparked a range of reactions across the gaming industry, with EA feeling optimistic about their upcoming Battlefield release, while other developers are adjusting their strategies. Dive into the details to understand EA's perspective and how various developers are responding to the GTA 6 delay.

GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions

Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"

EA has confirmed the release window for Battlefield following the announcement of GTA 6's delay. During their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson revealed that Battlefield is set to launch in March 2026. Wilson expressed a positive outlook, noting that the delay of GTA 6 has provided a clearer release window for Battlefield.

When asked about the impact of major releases like GTA 6 on other titles, Wilson acknowledged that few companies can afford to expedite their release dates to avoid competition with GTA 6. However, he was pleased with the situation, as Battlefield will now arrive two months before GTA 6.

The gaming industry has long grappled with the challenge of scheduling releases around GTA 6's anticipated launch, especially after its first trailer was revealed. With the delay, many developers are recalibrating their plans, but EA is content with how things have unfolded for Battlefield.

"Relative to Battlefield, what we have said all along is we’ve been building towards a window that we thought made the most sense for Battlefield," Wilson explained. "But we wouldn’t launch into a window that we thought truncated the value that we’ve invested into the franchise, or the value that we think our players will derive from it once they jump in and start playing."

He emphasized that the "window is clearer than it was before," expressing confidence in releasing Battlefield in March 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

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

In contrast, Death Stranding 2 (DS2) Director Hideo Kojima remains unfazed by GTA 6's release window. In a Koji Pro radio broadcast, Kojima mentioned that DS2's launch date was set long ago and will proceed as planned.

Kojima acknowledged rumors that GTA 6 might launch in November, suggesting that other companies would adjust their release dates accordingly. He drew an analogy to the film industry, likening GTA 6's impact to that of a major movie release like Mission Impossible: "For instance, if a new Mission Impossible movie were to release in May, others wouldn't be able to compete with that so would move somewhere else."

Despite the industry's tendency to avoid GTA 6's release window, Kojima is committed to sticking to DS2's development schedule, even targeting 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, navigating around GTA 6's looming release is crucial for their titles' success. The Game Business Show reported in March that several game executives are preparing to adjust their release dates to avoid direct competition with the highly anticipated action-adventure game.

An anonymous executive stated, "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 has boldly announced plans to release a game on the same day as GTA 6. Although the specific game remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital's catalog includes potential follow-ups like Cult of the Lamb, Inscription, Hotline Miami, or even a new IP.

The delay of GTA 6 has sent ripples throughout the gaming industry, prompting developers to adjust their release timelines. Whether avoiding or confronting GTA 6, the impact of its delay will be felt in the coming months. GTA 6 is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay informed about the latest developments by checking out our related article below!