The delay of GTA 6 has sent ripples through the gaming industry, with EA feeling optimistic about their upcoming Battlefield release, while other developers have mixed reactions. Dive into the details to understand EA's perspective and the broader industry response to this significant shift in the release calendar.
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. In their Q4 and FY 2025 Earnings Conference Call on May 6, EA CEO Andrew Wilson shared that Battlefield is slated for release in March 2026. The delay of GTA 6 has provided EA with a clearer path, allowing them to feel more confident about their launch timing.
When asked about the impact of major releases like GTA 6 on other game launches, Wilson noted that few companies can accelerate their release dates to avoid clashing with GTA 6. He emphasized that it's challenging to move a release date forward, but EA is pleased with how things have worked out for Battlefield, which will now launch two months ahead of GTA 6.
The gaming industry has long been concerned about timing game releases around GTA 6's initial trailer reveal. With the delay announcement, many developers are adjusting their plans. EA, however, feels that the timing for Battlefield is optimal.
"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 confident about releasing Battlefield 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. In a Koji Pro radio broadcast, Kojima confirmed that DS2's launch date was set long before GTA 6's delay and would not be altered.
Kojima acknowledged rumors that GTA 6 was expected in November, which would prompt other companies to shift their release dates. He likened this to the film industry's reaction to major releases like Mission Impossible: "For instance, if a new Mission Impossible movie were to release in May, others wouldn't be able to compete with that, so they would move somewhere else."
Despite industry trends, 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, GTA 6's looming release window is a significant factor in planning their game launches. The Game Business Show reported in March that numerous game executives are ready to adjust their release dates to avoid competing directly with GTA 6.
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 titles like Cult of the Lamb, Inscription, Hotline Miami, and potentially new IPs.
The delay of GTA 6 has undoubtedly impacted the industry, with developers either adjusting their release schedules to avoid the competition or daring to challenge it head-on. 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.
