Grand Theft Auto 6's Fall 2025 Console-Only Launch: A Risky Gamble?
Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) is slated for a Fall 2025 release, exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. This notable omission of PC from the initial launch lineup has sparked considerable debate. While consistent with Rockstar's past practices, this strategy feels increasingly anachronistic in 2025's gaming landscape, where PC gaming holds significant weight.
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick, in a recent interview with IGN, acknowledged the PC version's eventual release, stating that Rockstar has historically staggered platform releases. This aligns with the studio's past reluctance for simultaneous PC and console launches, and its complex history with the modding community. However, many hoped GTA 6, given its immense scale, would signify a shift in Rockstar's approach.
While PC gamers can expect a GTA 6 release eventually, the waiting period remains uncertain. Considering the Fall 2025 console launch window, a 2026 release, at the earliest, seems probable.
AnswerSee ResultsThe potential ramifications of this PC-release delay are substantial. Zelnick highlighted the PC market's growing importance, often contributing 40% or more to a multiplatform game's overall sales. This is particularly significant given the current slump in PS5 and Xbox Series X|S sales. While the industry anticipates next-generation consoles, the PC platform's expanding influence is undeniable.
AnswerSee ResultsZelnick remains optimistic, believing GTA 6's release will boost console sales, as major titles historically drive hardware purchases. However, the growing PC market share suggests that excluding this significant segment initially may prove a considerable risk for Rockstar and Take-Two. The PS5 Pro, while touted as a potential "GTA 6 machine," is unlikely to deliver a flawless 4K60 experience, further emphasizing the potential appeal of a high-performance PC version.