“GTA is like the ogre” - It’s an “odd” year to release a video game, says A Plague Tale studio Asobo
A Plague Tale developer Asobo has criticized Grand Theft Auto 6’s dominance over 2026’s release calendar, describing the major release as an “ogre” that overshadows other launches. The studio itself is joining the crowded year with Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy in late August, just months before GTA 6’s anticipated November launch.
GTA 6’s impact on the gaming industry has proven substantial. Across the sector, publishers have strategically repositioned their game launches to avoid direct competition with Rockstar’s heavyweight title. Many have moved releases to September or pushed them further back to February 2027 in response.
The ripple effects have been mounting for months, with GTA 6’s influence on the release schedule intensifying since its original autumn 2025 target date was announced. Each subsequent delay and calendar shift has created ongoing uncertainty, forcing developers and publishers to constantly recalculate their launch strategies to navigate the competitive landscape.
Asobo’s remarks underscore the challenging environment facing game developers this year, where a single blockbuster release effectively reshapes the commercial landscape for the entire industry.