Zelnick Calms Investors Over GTA 6 Delay, Share Drop

Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has addressed shareholder concerns following GTA 6's unexpected delay.

Rockstar recently announced postponing GTA 6's launch - potentially the most anticipated entertainment release ever. Originally scheduled for fall 2025 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, the title will now debut May 26, 2026, shifting from Take-Two's 2026 fiscal year to 2027.

The announcement triggered an immediate 7.98% drop in Take-Two's stock value during early trading. In an official statement, Take-Two reaffirmed projections for consecutive Net Bookings increases, anticipating record revenue levels across fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Zelnick emphasized Take-Two's full support for Rockstar's decision, assuring shareholders this delay will contribute to sustained long-term growth.

"We fully endorse Rockstar Games' choice to extend development for Grand Theft Auto VI," Zelnick stated. "This aims to deliver an unprecedented entertainment experience that surpasses fan expectations."

"While we understand the global excitement around GTA VI, we prioritize delivering excellence. Our diverse upcoming slate positions us for multi-year business expansion and increased shareholder value."

With GTA 6's financial impact postponed until 2027, attention shifts to Take-Two's alternative franchises through publisher subsidiaries 2K Games and 2K Sports. Notable upcoming releases include Gearbox's Borderlands 4 this September, Mafia: The Old Country later this year, and NBA 2K26's annual basketball installment.

Longer-term, development continues on BioShock's next chapter and Ken Levine's new project Judas. However, these titles can't realistically compensate for GTA 6's monumental revenue potential.

While the delay disappointed investors, many fans anticipated potential schedule adjustments - though they hoped Rockstar might soften the news with fresh gameplay visuals.