Fans of the Grand Theft Auto series will have to wait longer than expected. Rockstar Games has pushed the release window for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 to November 19, 2026. This significant delay leaves a massive void for players eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the iconic franchise.
Top Games to Bridge the Gap Until GTA 6
Fortunately, the current gaming scene is rich with immersive titles that can fill this gap. For players who love expansive, narrative-driven open worlds, here are five excellent alternatives to dive into while counting down to 2026.
1. Cyberpunk 2077: The Redemption Story
Despite its infamous launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has transformed into one of the best open-world experiences available today. Through consistent updates and the Phantom Liberty expansion, Night City now lives up to its promise. The game shares DNA with GTA, offering deep NPC interactions, cinematic story beats, and a sprawling metropolis full of chaos. It stands as the closest experience to what players might expect from a modern Rockstar title.
2. Red Dead Redemption 2: The Blueprint for GTA 6
To understand the potential technology and detail in GTA 6, look no further than Rockstar's own masterpiece, Red Dead Redemption 2. Its breathtakingly realistic open world, filled with dynamic systems and unparalleled environmental storytelling, is likely a direct blueprint for the next GTA. Beyond the tech, playing as Arthur Morgan offers one of gaming's most compelling and emotional narratives, making it a complete package no fan should miss.
3. Sleeping Dogs: The Ultimate GTA Clone
Often hailed as the finest GTA-inspired game, Sleeping Dogs delivers a thrilling crime drama set in the vibrant streets of Hong Kong. You step into the shoes of undercover cop Wei Shen, navigating the dangerous world of the Triads. While it shares many core mechanics with Grand Theft Auto, it carves its own identity with exceptional hand-to-hand combat and a unique Face system that influences respect and notoriety.
4. Watch Dogs: Legion: A Tech-Focused Open World
For those fascinated by modern technology and hacking, Watch Dogs: Legion presents a unique proposition. Set in a near-future, dystopian London, its standout "Play as Anyone" feature allows you to recruit and control virtually any NPC you encounter. This innovative mechanic, combined with its hacking-centric gameplay, offers a distinctly different flavour of open-world freedom while you wait for GTA 6.
5. Grand Theft Auto V: The Timeless Classic
Sometimes, the best way to wait for the sequel is to revisit the original. Grand Theft Auto V remains a masterpiece, holding its own against newer titles even in 2025. Its brilliant three-protagonist system—letting you switch between Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—creates a dynamic and engaging story. Furthermore, the ever-evolving GTA Online continues to receive major content updates, providing endless activities with friends.
The extended wait for Grand Theft Auto 6 is undoubtedly disappointing, but it also opens up an opportunity to explore other incredible worlds. From the neon-lit alleys of Night City to the gritty frontiers of the American West, these five games offer hundreds of hours of premium entertainment to keep you occupied until November 2026.
