it’s no secret that "GTA 6" is one of the most anticipated video games of 2017, however, details about the title's release date are still hard to come by, leaving fans no choice but to speculate about a few aces the game developer might have up its sleeve.

Rockstar Games, on the other hand, has been refraining from spilling the beans about the next "Grand Theft Auto" title. In fact, the game developer hasn't even officially confirmed that it's working on the sequel to its popular action-adventure video game, "GTA V."

Release date

While nothing is set in stone yet, multiple sources have already been pointing at a 2018 release for "Grand Theft Auto 6." But according to recent reports, the popular franchise is highly unlikely to hit the store shelves next year or anytime soon.

The series's skyrocketing popularity is the primary reason why avid gamers have restlessly been waiting for the release of "GTA VI." But much to their chagrin, ValueWalk recently reported that Rockstar is in no mood to shed more light on the upcoming title's release date and other details such as the lead character, and location. As a result, the demand and hype surrounding the game keep increasing.

The internet is brimming with all sorts of "GTA 6" related speculations with some latest reports suggesting that the long-anticipated sequel will finally arrive in 2018.

It’s worth noting that the rumor stems from the fact that Rockstar Games customarily keeps a five-year gap between tiles, including "Grand Theft Auto," and not an actual confirmation from the team behind the hit franchise.

According to this theory, the sixth installment in "GTA" series is highly likely to make an appearance in 2018 because "Grand Theft Auto 5" was launched back in 2013. Interestingly, this does not align with earlier reports that indicated "GTA6" might debut in 2020 or 2024, according to Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter.

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More details

The internet is brimming with all sorts of speculations regarding Rockstar Games' decision to remain tight-lipped about "Grand Theft Auto 6" release date.

If earlier reports are anything to go by, the developer currently has its hands full with an equally anticipated sequel, "Red Dead Redemption 2," which is expected to launch in 2018.

Rockstar Games does not want to deviate focus of the fans to another title by shedding light on "GTA 6" since "RDR2" will be the first game to be launched. In other words, the developer wants to keep the spotlight on the upcoming Western action-adventure video game in the wake of its looming arrival.

Meanwhile, FragHero attributes the game's delayed launch to the high cost involved in developing the follow-up to “GTA V”. Apparently, a new feature led to the delay in "GTA 6" development. This yet-to-be-announced feature is reportedly posing a big challenge for the game developer as far as their budget is concerned.

An earlier report by Neurogadget suggested that developing "GTA V" cost Rockstar Games a staggering $265 million.

With reports indicating that its sequel, "GTA VI" might incorporate VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) as well, the cost will obviously be relatively higher.

However, readers are advised to take this with a pinch of salt until Rockstar Games either confirms or debunks these reports. Watch this space for more "GTA 6" related news and updates.