This really isn't true. For argument's sake, let's say the GTAVI is a colossal disaster. There were SO MANY articles written about and so many videos created about how disastrous the GTA Definitive Edition release was. And that wasn't even a tent pole release. Many times more than what would have been created had it been released and it was good.

Also, only the media is in the thrall of the GTAVI release. (The author's point about SEO is on point in this case) They don't need it to be good, or terrible; they only need it to be relevant. Gamers (including myself) just want to play it when it comes out. Some of them really want to play it, but most of them seem like they will just play other things until it releases. When it does, they'll play it. When GTAVI online comes out (by that time, the old meme about being charged for reloading your gun might no longer be just a meme), it will occupy the time of millions of gamers. Just like GTAV is doing right now. I fail to see what is going to change...