2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for AAA video games. The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusive titles will compete with a strong lineup of anticipated releases, including Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, Ghost of Tsushima, and the next Call of Duty installment (likely October/November). However, the biggest contender is Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6, currently slated for a Fall 2025 release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

The possibility of a GTA 6 delay, combined with the other high-profile shooters launching, presents a significant challenge for EA's Battlefield, scheduled for release within EA's 2026 fiscal year (before April 2026). This timeframe directly overlaps with potential release windows for GTA 6, Call of Duty, and Borderlands 4.

EA's CEO, Andrew Wilson, acknowledged the competitive landscape and the potential for a Battlefield delay during a recent financial call. He emphasized the significant investment in the new Battlefield title, involving four studios and extensive development time. Wilson stated that EA aims for a launch maximizing the game's potential and fostering a large player base. He admitted that the competitive landscape in 2025 might necessitate a revised launch strategy, leaving open the possibility of delaying Battlefield beyond the initial FY26 target if a more favorable release window emerges.

99 Details in the GTA 6 Trailer - Slideshow

51 Images

A November 2025 release for Battlefield (mirroring the launch dates of Battlefield 2042 and Battlefield 5) could be impacted by a concurrent GTA 6 launch. EA might postpone Battlefield to Q1 2026 to avoid direct competition. Conversely, a potential GTA 6 delay to Q1 2026 could lead EA to either advance or delay Battlefield, potentially pushing it outside its fiscal year. This highlights the significant strategic decision facing EA, a decision Wilson indicated they are prepared to make.

The industry awaits Rockstar's official GTA 6 release date announcement. This announcement, whether confirming the Fall 2025 release or announcing a delay, will significantly influence the release strategies of competing titles.