Rockstar’s latest delay for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI has cost the video game industry $2.7 billion in 2025, according to Ampere Analysis. The overall spend on games content and services will still cross $200 billion for the first time ever, but at a narrower margin than initially predicted.
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5th contributed to this reduced growth, with forecasts now predicting only 1% in growth from $199.4 billion in 2024 to $201.3 billion in 2025. Ampere’s 2026 prediction of +2.2% growth is still expected to be reached.
Industry analysts predict that GTA VI sales will still be massive when they arrive, but their recognition by the broader gaming industry will now come later, in calendar-year 2026 and fiscal year 2027 for Rockstar Games’ parent company Take Two Interactive Software.
Analysts such as Mike Hickney and Michael Pachter have reaffirmed their “Buy” stance on Take Two’s stock, expecting GTA VI to drive multiyear financial strength. Meanwhile, Clay Griffin remains neutral on TTWO stock, calling the six-month delay “a non-event”.
Ampere Analysis research director Piers Harding-Rolls warns that the industry is cutting costs until revenue can be raised. He has identified five opportunities for growth: regional expansion, underserved audiences, optimized monetization, and holistic franchise strategies.
These opportunities include a $7-8 billion content opportunity from the Nintendo Switch 2, increased growth in the Middle East & Africa and Southeast Asia regions, and positioning games to attract diverse audiences. Optimizing monetization and building out holistic franchise strategies are also expected to drive revenue and value from game IP investments.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/gta-vi-new-delay-gaming-industry-impact-study-1236221252