Los Santos, California — The excitement surrounding the next chapter of the Grand Theft Auto franchise continues to build, despite a potential delay in its release until 2026. Developer Rockstar Games is keeping gamers engaged with new content, including a highly anticipated trailer that has garnered remarkable attention.
On Tuesday, Rockstar unveiled the second trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI, which has reportedly amassed over 475 million views across various platforms in a short period. This surge in viewership highlights the franchise’s immense popularity and the enthusiasm for this latest installment, which follows the critically acclaimed Grand Theft Auto V, launched back in 2013.
By comparison, the first trailer for the game, released in 2023, reached 93 million views, setting a record at the time as the biggest non-music video launch on YouTube. The newly released trailer for GTA VI is now being touted by the company as potentially the largest video debut in history. For context, the trailer for the film Deadpool & Wolverine achieved 365 million views within its first 24 hours, while The Fantastic Four: First Steps attracted over 200 million views in a similar timeframe.
The staggering view count for the GTA VI trailer not only reflects interest in the game but also underscores the anticipation for its expansive open-world gameplay. The storyline is set in Vice City, a fictional depiction of Miami, further enriching the universe that players have come to love.
In addition to the trailer, there has been a significant boost to the soundtrack associated with the game. Notably, “Hot Together” by The Pointer Sisters has seen a monumental increase in streaming, with Spotify reporting a 182,000% surge since the trailer’s release. This illustrates the deep cultural connection between music and the Grand Theft Auto series, which has long been known for its eclectic in-game radio stations and mission soundtracks.
“Grand Theft Auto cuts through popular culture like almost nothing else,” said Sulinna Ong, Spotify’s global head of editorial. “Music has been synonymous with the series since the very beginning, so it’s great to see fans both new and established connecting with an iconic track in this way.”
The forthcoming Grand Theft Auto VI is shaping up to be one of the most significant video game releases in recent memory, with a confirmed launch date of May 26, 2026, a shift from its initial 2025 schedule. Rockstar Games has reportedly invested over $1 billion into the game’s development, a strong indication of their commitment to delivering a groundbreaking experience. In contrast, GTA V has earned close to $10 billion since its release through continuous updates and additional content.
As one of the most eagerly awaited titles in the gaming community, Grand Theft Auto VI is expected to offer new features that enhance player engagement and storytelling within its immersive world. Fans are eagerly watching and waiting, eager to explore the vast possibilities that await them in Vice City.
