The highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 is slated for a fall 2025 release, exclusively targeting PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S. This decision leaves PC gamers out in the cold, a move that aligns with Rockstar's historical release strategy but feels increasingly outdated in today's gaming landscape. The exclusion of PC at launch raises questions about whether this is a missed opportunity for the studio, especially considering the platform's growing importance in the gaming industry.
In a recent interview with IGN, Take-Two's CEO Strauss Zelnick hinted at an eventual PC release for GTA 6. He compared the launch strategy to other titles in their lineup, such as the simultaneous release of Civilization 7 across multiple platforms. Zelnick's comments suggest that while Rockstar traditionally staggers platform releases, a PC version of GTA 6 is likely on the horizon, though not immediately at launch.
Rockstar's past reluctance to launch major titles on PC simultaneously with consoles, coupled with its complex relationship with the modding community, has set a precedent. However, many fans hoped that a game of GTA 6's magnitude might change the studio's approach to PC gaming. Historically, big Rockstar titles do make their way to PC, but the wait could extend into 2026 or beyond for GTA 6, given its confirmed fall 2025 console release window.
In December 2023, a former Rockstar developer attempted to shed light on the delayed PC release, urging PC gamers to give the studio the benefit of the doubt. Yet, the potential missed opportunity of not launching GTA 6 on PC simultaneously cannot be ignored. Zelnick emphasized to IGN that PC versions can account for up to 40% of a game's total sales, a significant figure that underscores the platform's importance.
The current console generation, featuring the PS5 and Xbox Series X and S, has seen declining sales. With no immediate next-gen console announcements from Sony or Microsoft, and Nintendo's Switch 2 in the pipeline, the industry's focus is shifting. Zelnick highlighted the growing significance of the PC market, predicting its continued expansion even as console sales falter.
Despite the lack of a PC launch, Zelnick is confident that GTA 6's release will boost console sales as fans rush to experience the game. He anticipates a surge in console sales in 2025 due to major releases, not only from Rockstar but from other publishers as well. This expected increase in console sales could be pivotal for the current generation, especially as the industry awaits the next wave of hardware.
The PlayStation 5 Pro has been speculated as a potential 'GTA 6 machine,' designed to offer the best gaming experience for the title. However, technical experts suggest that even the PS5 Pro might not be capable of running GTA 6 at 4K60, tempering expectations for the ultimate gaming setup.
