GTA 6 Delayed? Here Are 10 Games to Keep You Busy Until 2026
Rockstar Games has officially confirmed that Grand Theft Auto VI won’t be launching until May 2026. For fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the iconic open-world crime saga, the delay feels like a punch to the gut. But don’t worry—there’s a silver lining. The gaming world is packed with high-quality titles that can scratch that GTA-style itch or offer something entirely new and refreshing.
While we count down to the arrival of GTA 6, here are 10 games you can dive into now that are guaranteed to keep you entertained, thrilled, and maybe even surprised.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
If you haven’t already experienced Rockstar’s other masterpiece, Red Dead Redemption 2, now is the time. It’s arguably one of the most detailed and emotionally powerful games ever made. The massive open world, rich characters, and immersive story will more than satisfy fans of GTA’s world-building. Plus, Arthur Morgan’s journey might just hit you harder than anything in Los Santos.
Why it’s worth playing:
It’s like GTA on horseback, with deeper storytelling and even more beautiful visuals.
2. Cyberpunk 2077 (Phantom Liberty Update)
After a rough launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has made a triumphant comeback. With patches, performance fixes, and the acclaimed Phantom Liberty expansion, Night City has never been more thrilling. If you love immersive open worlds, futuristic tech, and intense action, this one’s a must.
Why it’s worth playing:
An edgy, mature, and now-polished open-world experience with branching storylines and rich lore.
3. Watch Dogs: Legion
If you want something a little more “hacktivist,” Watch Dogs: Legion puts you in the shoes of an entire underground movement. Set in a dystopian London, you can play as virtually any NPC, each with unique abilities. It’s a tech-savvy twist on open-world freedom.
Why it’s worth playing:
Innovative gameplay and a unique spin on the open-world genre with political commentary.
4. Assassin’s Creed Mirage
While older Assassin’s Creed games leaned into RPG mechanics, Mirage returns to the series’ stealth roots. Set in 9th-century Baghdad, it delivers a dense, vibrant city to explore and classic gameplay for fans who like tactical combat and sneaky strategies.
Why it’s worth playing:
Shorter, tighter experience with immersive historical detail and old-school AC charm.
5. Saints Row (2022 Reboot)
Despite a mixed reception at launch, the Saints Row reboot has grown into a fun sandbox experience after patches and updates. It’s a lighter, more chaotic alternative to GTA with over-the-top missions, weapons, and humor.
Why it’s worth playing:
Unfiltered chaos and wacky missions for those who like their crime sprees with a sense of humor.
6. Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Want a mix of deep story, hilarious side quests, and a ton of personality? Like a Dragon introduces a new protagonist and a turn-based combat system, making it a unique entry point for newcomers. Set in Yokohama, it’s like GTA meets JRPG.
Why it’s worth playing:
Emotional storytelling wrapped in absurd, lovable weirdness—like karaoke and street fights with lobsters.
7. Far Cry 6
Set in the fictional country of Yara, Far Cry 6 offers a tropical open world to liberate, filled with guerrilla warfare, mad dictators, and explosive gameplay. The story is gripping, the villains are memorable, and the action is nonstop.
Why it’s worth playing:
If you want open-world chaos with a political edge, this delivers in spades.
8. Mafia: Definitive Edition
Take a trip back in time to the 1930s with this stunning remake of the original Mafia. It’s more story-driven than GTA, with linear missions and cinematic presentation, but it nails the period setting and mobster vibe.
Why it’s worth playing:
A beautiful and respectful remake of a classic crime drama with a heavy focus on narrative.
9. Sleeping Dogs
This underrated gem from 2012 still holds up today. Set in a vibrant, open-world Hong Kong, Sleeping Dogs mixes martial arts combat, undercover cop drama, and street racing. It’s the perfect blend of action, story, and style.
Why it’s worth playing:
Criminally underrated and one of the best alternatives to GTA ever made.
10. Spider-Man 2 (PS5 Exclusive)
If you’re lucky enough to have a PS5, Spider-Man 2 is a must-play. Swinging through a gorgeous New York City as Peter Parker and Miles Morales is fluid, fun, and exhilarating. It’s not about crime sprees—but it’s a masterclass in open-world design.
Why it’s worth playing:
Incredible traversal, emotional storytelling, and blockbuster-level action.
Bonus Tip: Try Roleplaying Servers in GTA V
If you’ve already played through GTA V a dozen times, why not check out GTA RP (roleplay) servers? These community-run mods turn GTA into a completely new experience, where players take on roles like police officers, store clerks, or criminals with actual rules and interactions.
Why it’s worth playing:
Endless replayability with immersive, unpredictable social gameplay.
Final Thoughts
Yes, the wait for GTA 6 is going to be tough. But there’s no shortage of incredible games out there to keep you busy, entertained, and even inspired. Whether you’re looking for intense action, deep storytelling, wild sandbox fun, or something entirely different, this list has something for every type of gamer.
By the time May 2026 rolls around, you might not even have finished all of these—and that’s a good problem to have. So, dust off that controller (or mouse and keyboard), and let the countdown to GTA 6 begin—one amazing game at a time.
