The delay of GTA 6 has sparked a range of reactions across the gaming industry, with EA expressing optimism about their upcoming Battlefield release, while other developers face different challenges. Dive deeper into EA's perspective on their game launch and the broader industry response to the GTA 6 delay.
GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions
Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"
Following the announcement of GTA 6's delay, EA has solidified the release window for their much-anticipated game, Battlefield. During their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson confirmed that Battlefield is set to launch in March 2026. Wilson expressed satisfaction with this timing, especially in light of GTA 6's postponement.
When discussing the impact of major game releases on other titles, Wilson noted that few companies can expedite their launch dates to sidestep competition from a game like GTA 6. However, he was pleased with the favorable timing for Battlefield, which will hit the market two months before GTA 6.
The timing of game releases has long been a concern for developers and publishers, particularly following GTA 6's initial trailer reveal. With the delay, many are recalibrating their strategies, but EA feels confident about Battlefield's position.
Wilson emphasized that EA had been planning a launch window for Battlefield that they believed was optimal. "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 explained. He added that the "window is clearer than it was before" and feels good about releasing Battlefield in 2026. The game is slated for 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
On another note, Death Stranding 2 (DS2) Director Hideo Kojima has taken a different approach to the looming release of GTA 6. In an episode of Koji Pro's radio broadcast, Kojima stated that DS2's launch date was set long before GTA 6's delay and would proceed as planned.
Kojima acknowledged the industry's tendency to avoid competing with major releases like GTA 6, comparing it to the film industry's reaction to big blockbusters like Mission Impossible. He mentioned hearing rumors that GTA 6 might launch in November, prompting other companies to adjust their schedules. Despite this, Kojima is committed to sticking to DS2's development timeline, 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, the shadow of GTA 6's release window poses a strategic challenge. The Game Business Show reported in March that several game executives are prepared to shift their release dates to avoid clashing with the eagerly awaited action-adventure title.
An anonymous executive commented, "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, Cult of the Lamb publisher Devolver Digital has boldly announced plans to release a game on the same day as GTA 6. While the specific title remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital's extensive portfolio, including hits like Cult of the Lamb, Inscription, and Hotline Miami, offers several possibilities. They might even introduce a new IP to challenge Rockstar Games' open-world giant.
The delay of GTA 6 has sent ripples throughout the gaming industry, prompting various adjustments to release schedules. Some developers aim to avoid the competition, while others, like Devolver Digital, are ready to take it head-on. 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.
