Mon May 19 22:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The video game industry faces a $2.7 billion hit in 2025 due to the delay of Grand Theft Auto VI. Despite this, overall spending on games content and services is still projected to surpass $200 billion for the first time, largely thanks to the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2. While growth is expected to be modest in 2025, analysts remain optimistic about the future impact of GTA VI upon its eventual release in fiscal year 2027, anticipating a significant boost in engagement, monetization, and profitability for Take-Two Interactive Software. Industry experts identify key areas for future growth, including the Nintendo Switch 2, emerging markets like the Middle East & Africa and Southeast Asia, underserved audiences within established markets, optimized monetization strategies (especially in mobile gaming), and holistic franchise strategies that extend game IP across different media.

**News Article:**

**GTA VI Delay Costs Gaming Industry Billions, but Switch 2 Offers Hope**

**LOS ANGELES** – The highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed to 2026, and according to Ampere Analysis, this will cost the video game industry $2.7 billion in 2025. While a significant setback, the industry is still on track to surpass $200 billion in spending for the first time, largely driven by the expected June 5th release of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Ampere predicts modest growth in 2025, reaching $201.3 billion from $199.4 billion in 2024 – a 1% increase. Despite the slowdown, analysts remain bullish on Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, predicting a substantial financial boost when GTA VI eventually launches.

“The release of GTA VI in FY27 is expected to deliver a material uplift in engagement, monetization, and profitability,” wrote Benchmark analyst Mike Hickney in a note. Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter anticipates an $80 price point for the new title.

While some analysts downplay the impact of the delay, industry experts are looking at alternative avenues for growth. Ampere Analysis identifies five key opportunities:

* The Nintendo Switch 2 is projected to generate $7-8 billion in content revenue over the next two years, with potential for increased in-game monetization.
* Emerging markets such as the Middle East & Africa and Southeast Asia offer strong growth potential.
* Underserved audiences within saturated markets, like younger female gamers and those over 55 in the U.S., represent a significant opportunity.
* Optimizing monetization strategies in mobile gaming, including driving off-app store transactions and experimenting with in-game advertising, is crucial.
* Building out holistic franchise strategies to extend game IP across new product areas, media, and licensing opportunities remains a key driver.

The gaming industry is adapting to the delay and continues to look for innovative ways to expand its reach and revenue streams, with all eyes on the eventual arrival of GTA VI.

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