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 Yōtei, and the next Call of Duty title, likely slated for October or November. However, the biggest contender is Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6, currently scheduled for a Fall 2025 release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The potential for delays to GTA 6, combined with the other major shooter releases, presents a significant challenge for EA's upcoming Battlefield game. EA aims to launch the next Battlefield within its 2026 fiscal year (before April 2026), a timeframe that directly overlaps with the potential release windows of GTA 6, Call of Duty, and Borderlands 4.
EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the competitive landscape and the company's willingness to adjust the Battlefield release date if necessary. He emphasized the significant investment in the new Battlefield title, involving four studios and extensive development time. Wilson stated that EA wants to ensure a launch window that maximizes the game's potential and allows for strong community growth, suggesting a potential delay if the initial timeframe proves unfavorable.
He explicitly mentioned that the competitive landscape in 2025 might necessitate a revised launch strategy, hinting at a flexible approach to the FY26 release window.
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 then postpone Battlefield to Q1 2026, remaining within its fiscal year. Conversely, a GTA 6 delay to Q1 2026 could lead EA to either advance or delay Battlefield, potentially pushing it beyond its fiscal year. Wilson's comments suggest EA is prepared for such strategic adjustments.
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 other major titles, including EA's Battlefield.