The announcement of the GTA 6 delay has sparked a range of reactions across the gaming industry. EA, in particular, is feeling optimistic about their upcoming Battlefield release, while other developers are adjusting their strategies in response to the news. Dive into the details to understand EA's perspective and the varied responses from other game developers.
GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions
Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"
Following the delay of GTA 6, EA has solidified the release window for their anticipated game, Battlefield. During the Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson confidently announced that Battlefield is set to launch in March 2026. He expressed satisfaction with the situation, noting that the delay of GTA 6 has provided a clearer path for Battlefield.
When questioned about the impact of major releases on their launch schedule, Wilson explained that few companies can afford to expedite their game releases to avoid competing with GTA 6. However, he was pleased with the outcome, as Battlefield will now hit the market two months before GTA 6.
The timing of game releases has always been a concern for developers and publishers, especially since GTA 6 unveiled its first trailer. With the delay announcement, many are recalibrating their strategies. EA, however, feels that the adjusted timeline aligns well with their plans for Battlefield.
Wilson emphasized that EA has been strategically planning the release window for Battlefield, stating, "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 reiterated that the "window is clearer than it was before," expressing confidence in releasing Battlefield in March 2026 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Death Stranding 2 Will Come Out Regardless of GTA 6’s Release Window
In contrast, Death Stranding 2 (DS2) Director Hideo Kojima remains steadfast in his approach. During a Koji Pro radio broadcast, Kojima acknowledged the industry's tendency to avoid competing with GTA 6. However, he affirmed that DS2's release date, set long before the GTA 6 delay, would not be altered.
Kojima mentioned hearing rumors about GTA 6's potential November release and noted how other companies typically adjust their schedules to avoid clashing with such a major title. He drew a parallel 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 maneuvers, Kojima is committed to sticking to DS2's development timeline, aiming for a September launch. He also revealed that DS2 is 95% complete, signaling an imminent release.
Other Developers Steer Clear, Devolver Digital Says Bring It On
For many developers, navigating around GTA 6's release window is crucial for their games' success. According to The Game Business Show in March, numerous game executives are planning to shift their release dates to avoid direct competition with GTA 6.
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 a bold move, Cult of the Lamb publisher Devolver Digital announced plans to release a game on the same day as GTA 6. While the specific title remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital's portfolio includes potential sequels like Cult of the Lamb, Inscription, Hotline Miami, or even a new IP.
The delay of GTA 6 has sent ripples through the gaming industry, prompting various developers to adjust their release schedules. Some are steering clear, while others, like Devolver Digital, are ready to challenge the giant. GTA 6 is now slated for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated title.
