GTA VI Delay Slows Global Gaming Growth Despite 2025 Market Uptick
The GTA VI delay has cast a shadow over the global videogame market’s growth in 2025, despite a slight improvement from the previous year.
Industry Hopes on Hold
Analysts had expected a surge in growth due to the anticipated release of Take-Two Interactive’s “Grand Theft Auto VI” and upcoming gaming consoles. However, the GTA VI launch has been pushed to May 26, 2026, pushing the expected sales boost into next year.
Uncertain Spending Trends
Tariff-driven price hikes on gaming hardware have also dampened consumer confidence. Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony’s PlayStation devices saw price increases, triggering concerns about slower hardware sales. Consumers worldwide are facing inflation and market instability, which further clouds spending on entertainment tech.
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Modest Long-Term Outlook
Newzoo’s revised forecast projects a 3.3% compound annual growth rate for the gaming market through 2027, lower than its previous estimate of 3.7%.
2026 Holds the Real Momentum
The launch of GTA VI in 2026 is expected to spark a substantial revenue spike, especially with a later PC release. Other premium titles, like Capcom’s “Resident Evil Requiem,” will likely add to the market’s momentum that year.
New Consoles in the Mix
Despite concerns, console makers are pushing forward. Nintendo’s Switch 2 broke records as the company’s fastest-selling console. Meanwhile, Xbox announced a new handheld device, the Xbox Ally, developed with ASUS, set for release during the 2025 holiday season.
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