'GTA 6' release date news: Next 'GTA' title not expected before 2018

[photo: Screen Capture/gta6grandtheftauto.com/]

Rockstar Games has yet to confirm if there is a sequel to its highly popular "Grand Theft Auto" franchise. However, rumors are rife that "GTA VI" is already in development, but fans will have to wait a bit longer since it is expected to launch in 2018 or after.

According to NeuroGadget, although there are already rumors that Rockstar Games has started work on "GTA VI," fans may not expect the new game to launch any time soon. Instead, the earliest that "GTA VI" can release is in 2018, or at least five years after the roll out of the current-gen "GTA V" title. This is certainly plausible, given that Rockstar Games normally has five years in between title releases, particularly with its major franchises.

It also follows the pattern for the "Grand Theft Auto" series, as "GTA IV" was launched way back in 2008, while its sequel, "GTA V," hit the shelves in 2013.

There are also rumors that the next "Grand Theft Auto" offering will be a launching game for the next-gen consoles, so fans can also expect "GTA VI" to have a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox Two version.

Meanwhile, since it is rumored that "GTA VI" is already in development, fans are expecting Rockstar Games to include an announcement at the upcoming E3 2016. The annual Electronic Entertainment Expo is one of the biggest trade shows in the gaming industry, and Rockstar Games has already hinted that it has something up its sleeves for its presentation.

The 2016 E3 trade show will open next month, from June 14 to 16.

While fans are waiting for "GTA VI," players can enjoy a number of new updates and expansion for "GTA V," particularly its "GTA Online" feature. A recent post from Rockstar Games announced an upcoming major update for "GTA Online." Coming on June 7, "Further Adventures in Finance and Felony" will have players expand their criminal organization setup in the previous game update.