The upcoming release of GTA VI (Grand Theft Auto VI) is expected to be a major event in the gaming industry. Anticipation for Rockstar Games’ next title is so high that some companies, including Corsair, predict a surge in gaming hardware and accessory sales as players upgrade their setups. However, the game’s impact goes beyond hardware, with several game publishers reconsidering their own release schedules to avoid direct competition.
A report by The Game Business states that at least three major publishers are adjusting their launch timelines due to concerns that GTA VI’s release will dominate both player attention and media coverage. These publishers, which were not named, believe that launching their titles too close to GTA VI could lead to lower engagement and sales, as most gamers will be focused on Rockstar’s latest installment.
Developers of live-service games also factor in GTA VI’s release when planning updates. Some are considering a three-to-four-week gap around the launch to ensure their updates do not go unnoticed. This precaution means that players could see a cluster of new content both before and after GTA VI’s release, as companies attempt to navigate the crowded gaming calendar.
Speculation has also grown around the launch of Borderlands 4, with some fans suggesting that its timing could be influenced by GTA VI. Although this was initially just a theory, recent comments from industry sources indicate that studios are taking a strategic approach to scheduling releases. The goal is to maximize visibility and player engagement while avoiding unnecessary competition.
Even Electronic Arts is being cautious with its planning. EA CEO Andrew Wilson recently suggested that the company is evaluating the timing of Battlefield 6, which is currently expected to launch by the end of Q1 2026. While he did not mention GTA VI by name, he acknowledged that “certain events in the industry” could influence release timing, reinforcing the widespread industry reaction to Rockstar’s upcoming title.
The response from game publishers shows how significant GTA VI’s impact is expected to be. With developers adjusting schedules and hardware companies predicting a boost in sales, the launch of GTA VI is shaping up to be one of the most influential events in the gaming industry in recent years. Players can expect a busy release calendar before and after GTA VI, as studios work around its launch to maintain visibility in a competitive market.
Source: The Game Business
