EA Gains as GTA 6 Faces Delay

EA sees a silver lining in Battlefield's release strategy following GTA 6's postponement, while other developers display varying responses. Here's how industry players are adjusting to Rockstar's schedule change.

GTA 6 Delay: Industry Impact and Developer Responses

EA Sees Clearer Path for Battlefield Release

EA has cemented Battlefield's 2026 launch date following GTA 6's delay announcement. During their May 6 earnings call, CEO Andrew Wilson revealed Battlefield will now arrive in March 2026 - two months before GTA 6's rescheduled launch.

Wilson explained most developers can't easily move release dates forward to avoid GTA 6's gravitational pull, but noted EA's fortunate positioning: "We've always targeted a window that made sense for Battlefield, and now that window appears even clearer."

The gaming industry has grappled with release scheduling since GTA 6's initial trailer debut. While many studios are adjusting plans, EA expresses confidence in Battlefield's March 2026 launch across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms.

Kojima Stands Firm on Death Stranding 2 Schedule

Hideo Kojima addressed the industry phenomenon during a recent Koji Pro broadcast, acknowledging most developers would avoid GTA 6's release period. However, the Death Stranding 2 director confirmed his team would stick to their planned schedule, currently targeting a September launch.

"We set our timeline long ago," Kojima stated, drawing parallels to Hollywood's scheduling around major franchise films. With Death Stranding 2 reportedly 95% complete, the team maintains its course toward release.

Diverging Strategies Among Developers

A March report from The Game Business Show revealed widespread industry adjustments around GTA 6's launch window. One anonymous executive described the domino effect: "Everyone will shift three weeks in either direction, creating new congestion points."

In contrast, Devolver Digital announced plans to challenge Rockstar directly by releasing a title simultaneously with GTA 6. While the publisher hasn't specified which game will face this David vs. Goliath matchup, possibilities include sequels to Cult of the Lamb or Inscription, or potentially new IP.

GTA 6's rescheduled May 26, 2026 launch continues to reshape publisher strategies across the gaming landscape as companies either avoid or embrace the competition. Stay tuned for continuing coverage of this evolving story.