Grand Theft Auto 6 fans on PC are facing a familiar waiting game. Rockstar Games has confirmed that GTA 6 will launch simultaneously on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox on May 26, 2026, marking a major shift from their usual approach of releasing console versions first.
This change means PC players won’t have to wait years like they did with previous GTA games. GTA 5 took two full years to reach PC after its console launch, while Red Dead Redemption 2 had a one-year delay. The simultaneous release represents a big win for PC gamers who have grown tired of being left behind.
The delay from the original fall 2025 target to May 2026 affects all platforms equally. PC players can finally mark their calendars with confidence, knowing they’ll get to experience Vice City alongside console players from day one.
GTA 6 PC Release Date Expectations
Rockstar Games has confirmed GTA 6 will launch on May 26, 2026 for consoles, but PC players will need to wait longer. Based on Rockstar’s past release patterns and recent speculation, the PC version could arrive anywhere from early 2026 to 2028.
Why hasn’t Rockstar announced a PC release date?
Rockstar Games has not provided an official PC release date for GTA 6. The company confirmed that GTA 6 will launch on May 26, 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S platforms only.
This follows Rockstar’s typical pattern of focusing on console releases first. The developer has historically delayed PC versions to optimize performance and prevent piracy during the initial launch period.
PC players received no mention in Rockstar’s official announcement. The company’s statement simply confirmed console availability without addressing PC plans.
How does this compare to previous GTA releases?
Looking at past releases shows a clear pattern of PC delays:
GTA 5 Timeline:
- Console release: September 2013
- PC release: April 2015
- Gap: 1 year and 7 months
Red Dead Redemption 2 Timeline:
- Console release: October 2018
- PC release: November 2019
- Gap: 1 year and 1 month
If GTA 6 follows the GTA 5 pattern, PC players might wait until late 2027 or early 2028. However, if it follows the Red Dead Redemption 2 timeline, the PC version could arrive by mid to late 2027.
The shorter gap for Red Dead Redemption 2 suggests Rockstar may be reducing PC delay times.
What are industry insiders saying?
Several sources have shared potential PC release windows:
Corsair Gaming claimed GTA 6 has an early 2026 PC release date. This would be unusually fast compared to Rockstar’s history.
Gaming industry analysts suggest 2027 to 2028 as more realistic timeframes. This aligns better with Rockstar’s past behavior.
Some reports mention early to mid-2026 as possible, but these remain unconfirmed speculation. Most reliable sources point to a longer wait period for PC players.
The lack of official information means all PC dates remain educated guesses based on past patterns.
What to Expect for GTA 6 on PC
PC players can expect significant system requirements and enhanced features when GTA 6 arrives. The game will likely offer better graphics and performance options compared to consoles, with pre-orders potentially starting months before the actual PC release.
Will Your PC Handle GTA 6’s System Requirements?
GTA 6 will push PC hardware to new limits. The game is being built for next-generation consoles, which means powerful graphics cards and fast processors will be essential.
Players should expect minimum requirements to include at least 16GB of RAM. A graphics card like the RTX 3070 or RX 6700 XT will likely be the baseline for decent performance.
Recommended specs will probably demand much more. High-end GPUs like the RTX 4080 or better may be needed for 4K gaming at 60fps.
Storage space will be massive. The game could require 100GB or more of free space. An SSD will be necessary for faster loading times.
CPU requirements will favor newer processors. Intel’s 12th generation or AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series chips will likely be the sweet spot for smooth gameplay.
What New Features Will PC Players Get?
PC players typically get the best version of Rockstar games. GTA 6 will likely include enhanced graphics options not available on consoles.
Ray tracing support will probably be a major feature. This will make lighting and reflections look more realistic than ever before.
Higher frame rates will be possible on PC. While consoles might target 30-60fps, PC players could potentially reach 120fps or higher with the right hardware.
Advanced graphics settings will let players fine-tune their experience. Options for shadow quality, texture resolution, and draw distance will be extensive.
Mod support might come later. While not available at launch, Rockstar has allowed modding in previous games after some time.
Ultra-wide monitor support will likely be included. Players with 21:9 or 32:9 displays should get proper support for their screens.
When Can You Pre-Order GTA 6 for PC?
Pre-orders for the PC version will probably start several months before the actual release. This gives Rockstar time to build excitement and secure early sales.
Digital platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Rockstar’s launcher will likely offer pre-orders first. Physical copies might be available through major retailers.
Special editions will almost certainly be available. These usually include bonus content, soundtrack, and in-game items for extra money.
Pre-order bonuses might include early access or exclusive content. Rockstar often rewards early buyers with special vehicles or weapons.
The price point will likely be $70 or higher. This matches current AAA game pricing and reflects the game’s massive development costs.
System requirements will be announced before pre-orders go live. This helps players decide if they need to upgrade their hardware first.
