The gaming world is abuzz with anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6, but that excitement doesn't extend to all corners of the games industry.  Publishers are reportedly scrambling to adjust their release calendars to avoid clashing with Rockstar Games' behemoth.

While Rockstar remains tight-lipped on a concrete release date, the projected Fall 2025 launch window is already having a ripple effect.  A recent report suggests that at least three major publishers are prepared to delay their own high-profile releases to steer clear of GTA 6's impact.

Industry insiders claim the concern stems from the expected influx of players that GTA 6 will inevitably attract. Tens of millions are anticipated to flock to the game upon release, potentially leaving other titles in the dust. This fear of being overshadowed is driving publishers to strategically reposition their releases, hoping to maximize their visibility and sales.

The Game Business reports that publishers are not just delaying full game releases, but also significant content updates for live-service games.  Multiple executives have confirmed that GTA 6's launch is a key factor in their strategic planning.

One executive, speaking anonymously, stated, "We're actively trying to avoid any proximity to GTA 6's launch. We're developing several contingency plans for our titles."  Another insider echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the already challenging task of securing optimal release windows for new games, even without the added pressure of a GTA 6 launch.

A third executive, reportedly from a major European AAA publisher, highlighted the dilemma faced by many: release before GTA 6 and contend with an already crowded summer schedule, or release afterward and risk getting lost in the Black Friday sales frenzy. "GTA 6 is essentially a meteor strike, and we're all trying to stay clear of the impact zone," they explained.

The impact of GTA 6 extends beyond smaller publishers. In February, EA CEO Andrew Wilson hinted at potential adjustments to the next Battlefield game's release window due to an unspecified upcoming major title, widely believed to be GTA 6.

Adding to the complexity is the possibility of a GTA 6 delay into 2026.  Some publishers fear that shifting their games out of 2025 to avoid GTA 6 might backfire if Rockstar also opts for a delay, necessitating further scheduling changes. "If we move out of 2025 and Rockstar does too, it throws everything into disarray. Will we have time to move our game back up? Or will we have to delay further? It's a very stressful situation," one executive lamented.