Where Is GTA 6? Timeline, Rumours & Rockstar’s Silence Explained

Ever since the confirmation from Rockstar in 2022 that a new Grand Theft Auto (GTA) was on the cards, fans have been on tenterhooks for more information. Anticipation grew with the release of the initial trailer following in 2023 and rumours of a 2025 release. But since then, the game development company has kept quiet, leaving gamers to speculate on project rumours and the release date – until now.



Rockstar broke their silence in a recent update, setting the new release date as 26th May 2026 – and dropping a second trailer just four days later. Coming three years after the initial announcement and, as the only official update from Rockstar in those last three years, the lack of information has caused fans to speculate on exactly what is going on behind the scenes.

The GTA 6 Timeline: From GTA 5 to Now

Since GTA 5 was released in 2013, what have Rockstar been up to? In the same year GTA 5 Online was released as a component of the main game, going on to become a standalone experience in its own right.

Since then, Rockstar have released L.A Noire: The VR Case Files in 2017 and Red Dead Redemption 2 (the prequel to Red Dead Redemption) in 2018. The company also expanded its network, acquiring what is now known as Rockstar Dundee (previously Ruffian Games) in 2020 and Cfx.re (the team behind FiveM and RedM) in 2023. In early 2025, they went on to acquire Sydney-based development studio Video Games Deluxe, which was renamed Rockstar Australia.

What Are the Biggest GTA 6 Rumors?

When questions go unanswered, rumours will surface. In the years fans have been waiting for more information about the next instalment, several theories have been circulating. From theories around maps to speculation of an app, these are the rumors that seem to be sticking.

Map Theories
The data breach Rockstar Games experienced in 2022 resulted in an online leak of early GTA 6 footage. Fuelled by multiple distinct environments spotted in the footage, viewers discerned the new game will be set in a larger, reimagined Vice City featuring both sprawling urban and rural settings.

Rising Costs
While it’s unclear where the information came from, there are widespread rumors about just how much the game is costing to create, with some fans speculating amounts up to $6 billion USD.
The rumor gained traction after this video from Recharge on TikTok.

Recharge TikTok

A New Companion App
Rockstar North recently posted a job advert looking for an app developer with Android and iOS experience, sparking rumours that GTA 6 will have a companion app.

Why Is Rockstar So Quiet About GTA 6?

Rockstar is historically renowned for staying silent about its upcoming projects – and GTA 6 has been no exception. The company does this to build anticipation and create even more excitement around its projects, which – given how much fans are clamouring for the next GTA instalment – seems to do exactly that.

Can You Trust GTA 6 Countdown Sites and ‘Early Access’ Offers?

As yet, Rockstar Games have not announced an official countdown on their website – so any countdowns you see are most likely inaccurate or approximate. Similarly, pre-orders are not currently available on their official site or any trusted retailers.

If you see any ‘early access’ offers, it’s probable they aren’t the real deal but rather a tactic to entice fans to sign up, allowing collection of personal data – from contact information for marketing purposes to credit card information intended to take your money.

How to Stay Safe Online While Waiting for GTA 6

Be sure to follow Rockstar’s official social media channels for reliable updates, and verified third party retailers or news outlets you can trust. Beware of clickbait and phishing scams – don’t click on any links from unknown sources claiming to offer early access.

What's the Safest Way to Buy GTA 6?

If you choose to buy GTA 6, make sure you go through reputable retailers. And – for extra security – use prepaid game vouchers from trusted retailers like MobileTopUp, to avoid sharing your personal payment details.

Can I Preorder GTA 6 Without Sharing My Credit Card Information?

It’s simple to preorder GTA 6 without sharing your personal payment information. Opt to pay with a gaming voucher instead. Simply choose a trusted provider like MobileTopUp, and select a voucher for the platform of your choice – Playstation or Xbox (it is thought GTA 6 will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S upon release). Enter your details, then check out. Your code will be in your inbox almost instantly.

Will GTA 6 Be Worth the Hype?

Rockstar’s track record combined with the anticipated scope of GTA 6 suggests the game will live up to its hype. But will the sheer scale of it – the fact that fans have been waiting over ten years since the last instalment – mean that it’s simply impossible to do so?

The GTA series has so far delivered high-quality innovation every time. The fact that GTA 6 has been in development for such a seemingly long time suggests that this instalment will be no different – in fact, it could be even more refined. The company has made promises to this effect.

How to Play GTA 5 Safely While You Wait

Feel like revisiting the GTA series while you wait? Before you download any modifications, ensure your device has the appropriate anti-virus software, and only download some trusted websites. Do the same when buying digital add-ons, and protect your payment information by using gaming vouchers from a trusted retailer like MobileTopUp.

Shop games vouchers