By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
In a recent interview, Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, made a surprising admission regarding the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), leaving fans both stunned and excited.
A Bold Statement
Zelnick revealed that Rockstar Games, the developer behind the Grand Theft Auto series, is aiming to create “the best thing anyone’s ever seen in entertainment” with GTA 6. This ambitious goal has set the bar incredibly high, leading to heightened expectations among the gaming community. He emphasized that the studio is not just aiming to make a great game but is striving to deliver an unparalleled entertainment experience .
Addressing the Delay
The release of GTA 6 has been delayed to May 6, 2026, from its original window of late November or early December 2025. Zelnick explained that this delay is relatively short—less than six months—and is a strategic decision to ensure the game meets Rockstar’s high standards. He emphasized that the company values quality over adhering to strict release dates, a philosophy that has guided previous successful launches like GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 .
The Role of AI in Development
Amid speculation about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in accelerating game development, Zelnick clarified that while AI tools can improve efficiency, they won’t significantly hasten the production of GTA 6. He stated that AI allows creative teams to focus on innovation rather than mundane tasks but won’t make producing hits faster or cheaper. This perspective highlights Rockstar’s commitment to maintaining the quality and depth that fans expect from the franchise .
Managing Fan Expectations
Acknowledging the frustration among fans due to the lack of new information about GTA 6, Zelnick assured that the game’s development is progressing smoothly. He expressed confidence that the final product will be “breathtaking” and worth the wait. Zelnick also addressed the popular internet meme, “We got ___ before GTA VI,” acknowledging the community’s impatience and reaffirming Rockstar’s commitment to delivering a game that will exceed expectations .
Looking Ahead
As the new release date approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting more details about GTA 6. With Rockstar’s track record of delivering high-quality games and Zelnick’s reassurances, anticipation continues to build for what could be a landmark moment in gaming history. The gaming community remains hopeful that GTA 6 will not only meet but surpass the lofty expectations set by its predecessors.