'GTA 6' release date, rumors, update: high development costs behind delay?

A promotional image for "Grand Theft Auto V"Rockstar Games

"Grand Theft Auto V" and its online mode have proved to be massive hits for developer Rockstar Games and publisher Take-Two Interactive. However, neither have announced "Grand Theft Auto VI," and because of the lack of information, rumors have begun surfacing that the new game may be delayed due to budget concerns.

As noted by Game N Guide, "Grand Theft Auto V" cost over $250 Million to make, and the cost for the next game is expected to be even higher. This is due to the higher costs for better graphics, a better physics engine, salaries for the voice actors, and implementation of new features.

Some of these new features are rumored to include a much larger open-world and VR compatibility. The PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC are all coming with VR headsets such as the Playstation VR and HTC Vive, and games like "Grand Theft Auto" are expected to feature compatibility given their style of gameplay.

However, one aspect that can debunk this rumor is the fact that while it cost $250 Million to make "Grand Theft Auto V," the game managed to earn over $800 Million in just 24 hours. It has since become one of the highest-earning games of all time, and its online mode earned more than $500 Million since.

This would mean Rockstar has the resources to make "Grand Theft Auto VI," although the company is delaying the game for other reasons, such as focusing on another franchise such as "Red Dead Redemption" or even on a new IP. It is also possible that the development of "Grand Theft Auto VI" has already begun, but it might take years before it is finished.

Neither Rockstar Games nor Take-Two Interactive has confirmed or denied any of the rumors regarding "Grand Theft Auto VI," and neither have they given any details about the game's probable release date.