"GTA 6 Delay: EA Rejoices, Others React Variously"

The delay of GTA 6 has brought a wave of relief and strategic shifts across the gaming industry. EA, in particular, feels optimistic about their upcoming Battlefield release, while other developers are adjusting their plans in various ways. Dive into the details to understand how this delay is reshaping the landscape for game releases.

GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions

Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"

EA has solidified the release window for Battlefield following the announcement of GTA 6's delay. In their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson shared that Battlefield is slated for a March 2026 release. He expressed confidence in this timing, especially with GTA 6 now delayed.

When discussing the impact of major releases on other titles, Wilson noted that few companies can afford to move their release dates forward to avoid clashing with GTA 6. He was, however, pleased with how things have worked out for Battlefield, which will now launch 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 strategies. EA, however, feels that the timing for Battlefield is now more favorable than ever.

Wilson elaborated, "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. 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 satisfaction with Battlefield's planned release 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

Hideo Kojima, the director of Death Stranding 2 (DS2), took a different stance on the GTA 6 delay. During an episode of Koji Pro's radio broadcast, he acknowledged that many in the industry would typically adjust their release schedules to avoid competing with GTA 6. However, Kojima stated that DS2's launch date had been set long before and would not change.

Kojima had heard rumors that GTA 6 might release in November, which would prompt other companies to shift their release dates. He likened this situation to the film industry, saying, "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 typical avoidance of GTA 6's release window, Kojima remained committed to DS2's development schedule, targeting a September release. He also noted that DS2 is now 95% complete, indicating that its launch is imminent.

Other Developers Steer Clear, Devolver Digital Says Bring It On

For many developers, navigating around GTA 6's release remains a critical consideration for their games' success. The Game Business Show reported in March that numerous game executives are prepared to adjust their release dates to avoid clashing with the highly anticipated action-adventure title.

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."

In contrast, Devolver Digital, the publisher behind Cult of the Lamb, boldly announced their intention to release a game on the same day as GTA 6. While the specific game remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital has a diverse portfolio including potential sequels 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 various reactions and strategic adjustments. As developers recalibrate their release schedules, the impact will continue to unfold in the coming months. GTA 6 is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated game.