'Real reason' GTA 6 was delayed as fans make huge release date realisation

Grand Theft Auto VI, easily one of the most anticipated games of the year has been delayed. While pretty much anyone who's ever heard of GTA expected the delay, what no one predicted would be the exact reason behind the game's release date.

Thanks to a recent prediction from insider Tom Henderson, we had expected that Rockstar Games would be dropping some big GTA news ahead of their earnings call on 15 May. However, many fans speculated that GTA 6's release might be brought forward, not delayed. The good news is, Henderson was right, but the bad news, they've pushed the GTA 6 release back to 26 May, 2026.

On the official Rockstar Games website, the company said: "We are very sorry that this is later than you expected. The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game."

Why has GTA6 been delayed?

As is the case with most delayed games these days, the answer is pretty simple, Grand Theft Auto 6 simply isn't ready for release yet.

In their announcement on 2 May, they added: "With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve."

While many gamers have shown their frustration over the delays, others have been happy to at least finally see a solid release date, but are still calling out for the company to release another trailer and other marketing materials.

In stereotypical gaming fashion, just a handful of X users pipped up to defend Rockstar Games, showing appreciation for the company to take the time to make sure the game has the best launch possible.

What's so special about the GTA6 release date?

OK, so here's the twist that fans are starting to pick up on about the new GTA 6 release date.

It's been known for some time now that the Lucie and Jason, the games main protagonists, are loosely based on Bonnie and Clyde.

It didn't take long for fans to start noticing the May 26 release date coincides with the funeral of Bonnie and Clyde.

Although it could be a mere coincidence, it seems like a Rockstar have carefully chosen a date that pays tribute to the couple, which the upcoming games protagonists are based on.

While Rockstar themselves haven't actually confirmed if the pair are based off Bonnie and Clyde yet, the fact that they've picked this date, knowing that fans have theorised the couple being based off Bonnie and Clyde, seems like a gentle nod to the gaming community, letting them know that they nailed this one.