(Image credit: Deep Silver/PLAION)
With the unexpected announcement from Rockstar that GTA 6 will be postponed to May 2026, some developers are actually feeling optimistic. The delay opens a rare opportunity, as it gives them a stronger chance to vie for the prestigious Game of the Year award in 2025.
Many believed that if GTA 6 launched in 2025, it would dominate awards ceremonies, possibly even claiming top spots in iconic shows like the Golden Joysticks. Despite a year bursting with notable releases such as Split Fiction, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Monster Hunter Wilds, GTA 6 seemed set to overshadow them all.
However, with the game now temporarily stepping aside, 2025’s contenders can square off more fairly. Luke Dale, who stars as Hans Capon in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, has expressed newfound hope. On Twitter, he exclaimed, “WE’RE IN WITH A SHOT! GOTY!” using the hashtag #KCD2, further sharing his optimism with fingers crossed for “Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 GOTY 2025.”
Check Dale’s enthusiastic tweet here: Luke Dale on Twitter
Although the sentiment has not become widespread among developers, it’s conceivable that many share this quiet optimism. During a time when some are deeply disappointed by the news of GTA 6‘s delay, the industry is poised to keep a close eye on the empty throne left for the latter half of the year.
However, not everyone sees the delay in a positive light. Industry analysts have highlighted the negative impact on the gaming sector, calling it part of the “nightmare scenario territory” that follows recent challenges like the Xbox price increase.