Grand Theft Auto 6 has faced yet another delay, now set for release in November 2026, extending the development period significantly since GTA 5 launched in 2013. With a gap reaching 13 years, many fans are questioning whether this is the longest development in gaming history. Interestingly, while GTA 6's development was officially recognized to begin in 2022, it trails behind other lengthy projects like Duke Nukem Forever, which holds a Guinness World Record for its protracted 14-year development. Other games like Beyond Good and Evil 2 also challenge this notion with a staggering 17 years in development.

As we explore the evolving landscape of game development, it’s clear that the wait for major titles is becoming more common, leaving players to wonder if we will see even longer delays for future games.

What is the longest game development period in history?

The longest development period officially recorded for a video game is held by Duke Nukem Forever, which took 14 years and 43 days to complete. However, Beyond Good and Evil 2, announced in 2008, may soon surpass this record if it continues to be in development without release.

Grand Theft Auto 6 is part of a beloved franchise developed by Rockstar Games that has shaped the open-world genre since its inception. The anticipation surrounding its release is immense, especially considering the cultural impact of its predecessors. With extensive lore, character developments, and a massive fan base, the expectations for GTA 6 are exceedingly high. The franchise is well-known for pushing boundaries in storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and open-world design, raising questions about how the prolonged development may affect the final product.