Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick recently commented on the company's staggered platform release strategy, particularly concerning the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. Zelnick acknowledged that delaying the PC release of GTA 6 will result in a significant revenue shortfall—approximately 40% of typical PC release earnings. However, Take-Two remains committed to its established release model, prioritizing a sequential, rather than simultaneous, launch across platforms.
This approach aligns with the historical release pattern of the GTA franchise, where PC releases have traditionally been delayed. This delay, in part, stems from Rockstar's complex relationship with the modding community. Importantly, Zelnick clarified that this decision is unrelated to the sales performance of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles; GTA 6's release strategy will not change due to console sales figures.
Assuming a fall 2025 release date for other platforms, PC gamers can likely expect to experience GTA 6 sometime in 2026. The game's launch carries immense weight, not just for Take-Two Interactive, but for the entire gaming industry. The initial teaser trailer shattered YouTube viewership records, fueling industry-wide anticipation that GTA 6 could surpass the $1 billion sales mark, potentially setting a new benchmark and positively influencing other developers and publishers.