After what seemed like an eternity of silence, Rockstar Games has finally given the official word on a Grand Theft Auto 5 release date. Rockstar announced in a post on their official website that pre-orders would begin November 5 for a worldwide release in spring 2013.
"Today, we're proud to announce that Grand Theft Auto V is expected to launch worldwide spring 2013 for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3," wrote Rockstar.
"Starting next week November 5, 2012, Grand Theft Auto V will become available for pre-order everywhere," they added.
Rockstar also stated they are currently working on Grand Theft Auto 5 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and don't "have any details to share about a PC version at this time. "
The release date announcement could be a reaction to a recently leaked European poster for Grand Theft Auto 5 that hinted a spring 2013 release as well.
Rockstar also offered a couple hints at what the game would feature:
"Developed by series creator Rockstar North, Grand Theft Auto V takes place in a re-imagined, present-day Southern California in the largest and most thriving game-world we have ever created set in the sprawling city of Los Santos and for miles beyond - from the tops of the mountains to the depths of the ocean."
Could this mean submarines might be a part of the game? We already know that planes will be making a return, as per released screenshots, but submarines would be an interesting, and exciting new gameplay feature. The earliest chance we have of getting this confirmed will be to wait for Game Informer's December issue (which should go online around November 8) that will feature a multi-page spread on their hands-on time with Grand Theft Auto 5.
Rockstar also included the second piece of artwork for the game along with the post (see above).
November was promised by Rockstar to be a month full of new info, and it looks like the developer is jumping the gun. Expect more over the coming weeks, including a possible new trailer.