GTA 6 launches May 26, 2026 on PS5 & Xbox Series X/S; PC version expected later.
Features Vice City & Leonida, dual protagonists Jason and Lucia, and upgraded heists.
Price may touch $100, with GTA 6 Online promising evolving maps and co-op play.
Rockstar Games has officially announced that Grand Theft Auto VI will arrive only on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles.
This is a postponement from the initially scheduled fall 2025 window to ensure polish and performance on next-gen hardware. Based on Rockstar's historical practice of staggered releases on the PC platform, PC gamers may have to wait a lot longer; industry analysts foresee a release in 2027 or even 2028.
For the first time in the series’ history, GTA 6 features a dual-protagonist setup with Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos. Inspired by the contemporary Bonnie-and-Clyde legend, their tale involves high-stakes heists, nail-biting escapes, and profoundly personal decisions.
Adding Lucia as the franchise's first female lead protagonist heralds a new narrative direction, promising richer character journeys and player-driven dynamics.
Also Read: Rockstar Job Listings Hint at GTA VI User-Generated Content Platform
The action is back in Vice City, recast in the fictional state of Leonida. This isn’t a retro look back; the map is said to be the biggest in GTA history, stretching past the neon-lit beaches of Vice City into rural swamps, small towns, coastal areas like the Leonida Keys, and mountainous country like Mount Kalaga.
Rockstar uses that geographical variety to drive both the single-player campaign and future online expansions.
Rockstar’s trailer and leaks imply that GTA 6 will focus on realism and immersion. More intelligent NPCs, enhanced stealth, dynamic weather, and even social media interactions within the game will bring Vice City to life.
The heist system, a favorite from GTA V, is back in an enhanced version with greater tactical choices, co-op play, and branching outcomes. Quality-of-life improvements like crouching, an improved cover system, and more expansive vehicle customization are also expected.
Pricing is one of the most sizzling discussion topics. AAA games float in the $70 range, but Take-Two Interactive has suggested that GTA 6 might have a starting price of up to $100, with premium and deluxe versions reaching even more.
CEO Strauss Zelnick has justified the possible increase by referencing the game’s scope and ‘unmatched entertainment value.’ It is too early to tell if fans will swallow it, but past experiences indicate Rockstar’s brand of quality guarantees high demand.
Rockstar’s multiplayer universe is set to receive its largest revolution ever with GTA 6 Online. Although there are few details, expectations run high for a changing map, deep customization, and fresh co-op missions.
Considering how GTA Online propped up GTA V for over a decade, GTA 6’s online variant is set to be a long-term money generator.
Also Read: GTA Online: Ultimate Guide to Unlock All Businesses
The push back to 2026 reflects the urgency Rockstar is under. Development hurdles, such as the 2022 leak of cut footage, only added to the scrutiny. However, Take-Two’s management maintains that confidence remains ‘very, very high’ and that GTA 6 will launch on schedule.
With its scope for ambition, dual protagonists, and next-generation sheen, GTA 6 is building up to be not just another game in the series but a flagship moment for the franchise, and possibly for gaming in general.
1. What is the official release date of GTA 6?
GTA 6 is set to launch on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
2. Will GTA 6 release on PC?
Yes, but not at launch. The PC version is expected to release later—likely in 2027 or 2028, following Rockstar’s staggered strategy.
3. Who are the protagonists in GTA 6?
Players will control Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos, marking the first time a female lead stars in the GTA series.
4. How big is the GTA 6 map?
The game expands beyond Vice City into the state of Leonida, featuring coastal areas, swamps, mountains, and suburban towns, making it the largest GTA map yet.
5. How much will GTA 6 cost?
The base edition may cost $70–$100, with special and deluxe editions priced higher. Rockstar and Take-Two emphasize that pricing will reflect the game’s scale and value.