Grand Theft Auto VI is one of the most anticipated video games of the decade. Rockstar Games has spent years developing the next installment in the legendary franchise, promising a bigger map, deeper storytelling, and next-level graphics. While console players already have a confirmed release window, PC gamers are eagerly waiting for clarity on when they will be able to experience the game. Alongside the release date speculation, there is also growing interest in the minimum system requirements needed to run GTA 6 on PC. This article explores everything we know so far about the PC release timeline and the expected specifications.
GTA 6 release timeline
Rockstar has officially announced that GTA 6 will launch for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on November 19, 2026. However, the PC version is expected to arrive later. Based on Rockstar’s history with previous titles, such as GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, the PC release usually follows console launches by several months. Current industry speculation suggests that GTA 6 could arrive on PC around mid-2027, possibly June, though some reports hint at early 2028. While Rockstar has not confirmed the exact date, fans can be assured that a PC version will eventually be released, as the franchise has always embraced the PC platform.
Why the delay for PC
The delay in PC releases is not unusual for Rockstar. Developing a PC version requires additional optimization to ensure compatibility with a wide range of hardware configurations. Unlike consoles, which have standardized specifications, PCs vary greatly in terms of processors, graphics cards, and memory. Rockstar typically takes extra time to polish the PC version, adding features such as enhanced graphics settings, mod support, and improved performance options. This approach ensures that when the game finally arrives on PC, it delivers a smooth and immersive experience.
Minimum system requirements
Although Rockstar has not yet published official PC specifications, several reliable sources and industry experts have speculated on the minimum requirements based on the scale of the game and its graphical ambitions. GTA 6 is expected to demand significantly more power than its predecessor, GTA 5, due to its advanced visuals and larger map. The following are the anticipated minimum specs:
- Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i7-8700 or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 or AMD Radeon RX 5700
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: At least 150 GB of free space
- DirectX: Version 12
These requirements reflect the expected baseline needed to run the game at lower settings. Players with older hardware may struggle to achieve stable performance, highlighting the importance of upgrading systems ahead of the release.
Recommended specifications
For those who want to experience GTA 6 at higher settings with smoother performance, the recommended specifications are expected to be more demanding:
- Operating System: Windows 11 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i9-10900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT
- RAM: 32 GB
- Storage: 150–200 GB SSD
- DirectX: Version 12 Ultimate
These specs would allow players to enjoy the game with ray tracing enabled, higher resolutions, and more detailed textures. Given the scale of GTA 6, investing in a powerful system will be essential for those who want the best possible experience.
File size expectations
Another important consideration for PC players is the file size. GTA 6 is expected to occupy more than 150 GB of storage, making it one of the largest games ever released. This is due to its expansive map, high-resolution assets, and advanced gameplay systems. Players should prepare by ensuring they have sufficient SSD storage, as running the game on traditional hard drives may result in slower load times and reduced performance.
Graphics and gameplay innovations
GTA 6 promises to deliver next-level graphics, with realistic lighting, detailed environments, and lifelike character animations. Rockstar has hinted at a return to Vice City, featuring a significantly larger map with diverse environments ranging from urban areas to rural landscapes. The introduction of new characters, including Lucia, the franchise’s first major female lead, adds depth to the narrative. These innovations will require powerful hardware to fully appreciate, reinforcing the importance of meeting or exceeding the recommended specifications.
Preparing your PC
For gamers planning to play GTA 6 on PC, preparation is key. Upgrading to a modern graphics card, ensuring sufficient RAM, and investing in SSD storage will make a significant difference. Players should also keep their operating systems updated to the latest versions to ensure compatibility. Given the expected demands, building or upgrading a PC ahead of the release could save time and frustration later.
Market impact
The release of GTA 6 on PC will have a major impact on the gaming industry. It will likely set new standards for open-world games, pushing developers to innovate further. The game’s success on PC will also reinforce the importance of the platform, which continues to attract millions of players worldwide. Mods and community-driven content will further extend the life of the game, as has been the case with GTA 5.
Conclusion
GTA 6 is shaping up to be the biggest game of 2026, with console players set to experience it first. For PC gamers, patience will be required, as the release is expected in mid-2027 or later. The minimum and recommended specifications suggest that GTA 6 will be one of the most demanding titles ever, requiring powerful hardware to fully enjoy. With its groundbreaking graphics, expansive world, and innovative gameplay, GTA 6 promises to redefine the open-world genre once again. Preparing your PC now could ensure that when the game finally arrives, you are ready to dive into the next chapter of Rockstar’s legendary franchise.