It’s a testament to its enduring quality and the immersive open-world experience it offers that Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V), originally released on September 17, 2013, continues to be a colossal hit even twelve years later. In an industry often defined by rapid iteration and the constant push for the next big thing, GTA V has not only survived but thrived, selling an astounding 5 million units in the last quarter alone, pushing its total sales to over 215 million copies worldwide. This remarkable feat underscores the game’s status as a true “standard-bearer for the industry,” as Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick recently remarked.
The bustling streets of Los Santos, the compelling narratives of Michael, Franklin, and Trevor, and the ever-evolving online component, Grand Theft Auto Online, have kept players engaged for over a decade. Regular updates and a constant influx of new content for GTA Online have cultivated a dedicated community that continues to explore its vast possibilities. This sustained popularity has undoubtedly contributed to the extended development cycle of its highly anticipated successor, Grand Theft Auto VI.
However, despite the ongoing success of GTA V, the gaming world is buzzing with anticipation for the next installment in the Grand Theft Auto saga. The wait for GTA VI has been long, with preliminary work reportedly beginning as far back as 2014. The official announcement and subsequent trailers have only intensified the fervor, revealing a new setting in the fictional state of Leonida, based on Florida, including a return to the iconic Vice City. The game will feature two new protagonists, Jason and Lucia, in a narrative inspired by Bonnie and Clyde, navigating a sprawling open world that promises to be the largest and most detailed in the series’ history.
The development of GTA VI has been a closely watched process, marked by both excitement and occasional setbacks, including a recent delay. Initially slated for a Fall 2025 release, Rockstar Games announced on May 2, 2025, that the launch date has been moved to May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S platforms. The company cited the need for extra time to ensure the game meets the high expectations of its players, a sentiment echoed by the enduring quality of GTA V.
Industry analysts predict that GTA VI will be a monumental release, potentially boosting the entire video game market. The anticipation is so high that some publishers are strategically positioning their own game releases to avoid direct competition with Rockstar’s behemoth.
While GTA V continues its reign as a dominant force in the gaming landscape, its enduring legacy has only amplified the desire for the innovation and fresh experiences that GTA VI promises to deliver. As the new release date approaches, the gaming community eagerly awaits the next chapter in this iconic franchise, hopeful that it will not only meet but exceed the lofty standards set by its remarkable predecessor.