2025 is shaping up to be a major year for AAA video game releases. The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusives will compete with a strong lineup of titles including Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, Ghost of Yōtei, and the next Call of Duty installment (likely October/November). However, the most anticipated release is Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6, currently slated for Fall 2025 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The potential for delays to GTA 6, combined with the other significant shooter releases, presents a challenge for EA's Battlefield, scheduled for release before April 2026 (within EA's 2026 fiscal year). This puts Battlefield in direct competition with GTA 6, and possibly Call of Duty and Borderlands 4.
EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the competitive landscape and the possibility of delaying Battlefield to avoid a crowded market. He emphasized the significant investment in this Battlefield title, involving four studios and extensive development time. The goal is to launch a game that meets expectations and fosters a substantial player base. Wilson stated that while the target is a FY26 launch, EA would reassess the release window if it deemed necessary to optimize the game's success.
99 Details in the GTA 6 Trailer - Slideshow
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A November 2025 release for Battlefield (mirroring the launch dates of Battlefield 2042 and Battlefield 5) could be impacted by a concurrent GTA 6 release. EA might postpone Battlefield to Q1 2026 to avoid direct competition. Conversely, a potential GTA 6 delay to Q1 2026 could prompt EA to either bring Battlefield forward or delay it beyond its fiscal year. This highlights the significant impact of GTA 6's release date on the strategic planning of other publishers. The industry awaits Rockstar's announcement to finalize release schedules.
