EA Delighted by GTA 6 Delay, Others React Variously

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 are adjusting their strategies. Dive into the details to understand EA's perspective on their game launch and the varied responses from other developers.

GTA 6 Delay Effects and Reactions

Battlefield Release Window "Clearer Than It Was Before"

EA has solidified the release window for Battlefield following the announcement of GTA 6's delay. During their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson confirmed that Battlefield is slated for a March 2026 release. Wilson expressed satisfaction with the timing, noting that the delay of GTA 6 has provided a clearer path for Battlefield.

When questioned about the impact of major releases on other game launches, Wilson highlighted the difficulty of moving release dates forward. He emphasized that few companies could adjust their schedules to avoid GTA 6's original window. However, he was pleased with how things have worked out for Battlefield, which will now launch two months before GTA 6.

The timing of game releases has long been a concern for developers and publishers, especially since GTA 6's first trailer was revealed. With the delay, many are recalibrating their plans, but EA feels confident about Battlefield's new position.

"Relative to Battlefield, what we have said all along is we’ve been building towards a window that we thought made the most sense for Battlefield," Wilson explained. "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 stated that the "window is clearer than it was before" and feels good about releasing Battlefield in 2026. The game is set to launch 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

In contrast, Death Stranding 2 (DS2) Director Hideo Kojima remains unfazed by GTA 6's release schedule. During an episode of the Koji Pro radio broadcast, Kojima mentioned that DS2's launch date was set long ago and will proceed as planned.

Kojima acknowledged rumors that GTA 6 was expected in November, suggesting that other companies might shift their release dates to avoid clashing with it. He drew a parallel to the film industry, noting, "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 tendency to steer clear of GTA 6's release window, Kojima is committed to sticking to DS2's development schedule, aiming for 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, navigating around GTA 6's release window is crucial for their games' success. The Game Business Show reported in March that several game executives are prepared to adjust their release dates to avoid competing directly with the highly anticipated action-adventure title.

An anonymous executive stated, "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."

On the other hand, 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 game remains undisclosed, Devolver Digital's portfolio includes potential follow-ups 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 adjustments in release schedules. Some developers are steering clear, while others, like Devolver Digital, are ready to take on the challenge. 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 title.