Ex-Rockstar developer warns GTA 6 hype could fade if game faces another delay

Former Rockstar Games animator Mike York has said that the anticipation surrounding Grand Theft Auto VI could decline sharply if the game is delayed again beyond its current release window.

York, who previously worked on Grand Theft Auto V, shared his views during an interview with Esports Insider, offering insight into Rockstar’s development process and the risks of further postponements.

Grand Theft Auto VI was originally expected to launch in 2025 before being delayed to May 2026. Rockstar Games later announced a further delay, pushing the release to November 26, 2026. Since then, speculation around the title has continued, despite limited official updates from the studio.

York suggested that the previous delays were driven by Rockstar’s focus on refinement rather than fundamental issues. “If I know Rockstar Games, and I know the guys over there, one of the reasons for the delay in releasing GTA 6 is because they’re trying to make it look as best as it can possibly be,” he said.

He added that the studio is still polishing elements of the game and may not yet consider it fully complete, given expectations surrounding the release.

Commenting on the current schedule, York said, “I think the game will be released in November 2026, as it’s a good time for the game to come out for Rockstar for multiple reasons to sell video games.”

He also noted that releasing the game a month before Christmas would be commercially advantageous, stating, “If you want to sell a big amount of video games, then that’s the perfect time for GTA 6 to come out.”

However, York cautioned that further delays could negatively affect audience engagement. “If Rockstar Games delay GTA 6 again, then the hype around the game will die down almost completely,” he said, adding that extended waiting periods risk frustrating fans and reducing interest.

While discussion around the title has slowed in recent weeks, Grand Theft Auto VI remains one of the most anticipated releases in the industry. Rockstar Games has not commented publicly on the likelihood of additional delays.