GTA 6 Delay: Industry Insiders Weigh In On The Impact

The games industry has been significantly impacted by the announcement that GTA 6's release has been pushed back to November 19, 2026. Take-Two Interactive's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, expressed confidence that the delay would not adversely affect the company's business. However, other industry players are likely to be concerned, particularly those with titles scheduled for release in Q4 2024, which will now compete with one of the most highly anticipated game launches in history. Conversely, some may welcome the newly opened Q2 window. GamesIndustry.biz spoke to various industry figures to gauge their reactions to the delay and its potential effects on their plans. Analyst Piers Harding-Rolls noted that publishers will likely adjust their release schedules to avoid competing with GTA 6. The delay may also influence console sales dynamics in 2026, potentially leading to a more back-loaded sales pattern. Furthermore, the late release of GTA 6 could impact the timing of next-gen console launches, as Sony and Microsoft may choose to ride the game's momentum rather than releasing new hardware earlier. The delay is expected to cause a significant reshuffle in the 2026 entertainment calendar, with some titles potentially launching earlier or later than initially planned. Industry insiders shared their thoughts on the delay, with some expressing relief and others anticipating opportunities in the newly opened Q2 window. The consensus is that the delay will have far-reaching effects on the industry, with many companies reassessing their strategies and launch timelines. While some may view the delay as a challenge, others see it as an opportunity to capitalize on the changed landscape and find new ways to stand out in a crowded market.