The recent delay of Grand Theft Auto 6 to November 2026 may influence the release timeline for next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and the upcoming Xbox. Analyst Piers Harding-Rolls suggests that Sony and Microsoft might extend the current console generation to capitalize on the game's anticipated sales boost. This shift could push new hardware launches from 2027 to 2028.
Background on the Delay
Grand Theft Auto 6, developed by Rockstar Games, was originally expected earlier but has now been postponed to November 2026. This title is seen as a major milestone that could signal the end of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S era, given its potential to drive massive hardware sales during the holiday season.
Analyst Insights
Piers Harding-Rolls, director of games research at Ampere, notes that millions of players might delay console purchases until GTA 6 arrives. He explains, "This launch approach will drive hardware sales, as millions of players will wait for the game’s arrival to make their purchase." To avoid overshadowing new consoles, Sony and Microsoft may prolong the current generation's lifecycle into 2028, even if next-gen hardware is ready by 2027.
Additional Details
The PC version of GTA 6 is expected around six months after consoles, potentially in mid-2027. There could also be enhanced editions for PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox, possibly at a higher price point. This strategy echoes the success of Grand Theft Auto 5, which has sold over 220 million copies and ranks as the second best-selling video game ever.
Sony has confirmed that the PS5 is midway through its lifecycle, similar to the PS3's status in 2013. The delay adds uncertainty to the gaming industry's console transition plans.