News timeline
Every major announcement in order, with links to the original source
60 new screenshots released
Alongside the pre-order launch, Rockstar refreshed the official site with roughly 60 new screenshots showcasing all six regions of Leonida.
Source: ForbesPre-orders open worldwide
Pre-orders went live for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. The Standard Edition costs $79.99 and the Ultimate Edition $99.99 — and every pre-order includes the Vice City Vintage Pack with classic cars, outfits and a retro weapon skin.
Source: Rockstar NewswireOfficial cover art revealed
Rockstar unveiled the official cover art featuring Jason and Lucia, returning to the series' classic segmented style, and confirmed the pre-order date.
Source: GameSpotTake-Two: no more delays
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick reiterated that November 19 is final and teased that the full marketing push — including the next trailer — would ramp up after the World Cup.
Source: ViceRelease moved to November 19, 2026
Rockstar delayed the game from May 26 to November 19, 2026, apologizing for the extra wait and saying the added months would let the team finish the game with the expected level of polish.
Source: Rockstar NewswireTrailer 2 and full character reveals
The second trailer arrived alongside a complete overhaul of the official site — detailed profiles for Jason, Lucia, the supporting cast and all six regions of Leonida.
Source: GamesRadar+Trailer 1 breaks YouTube records
The debut trailer confirmed the return to Vice City and introduced Lucia, and became the most-viewed video game trailer debut in YouTube history.
Source: Rockstar Games (YouTube)