Ahead of preorders opening on June 25, Rockstar Games has revealed that physical editions of Grand Theft Auto 6 will not include game discs. Instead, boxed copies will contain a download code.
This approach aligns with comments made earlier this year by Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick regarding the physical sale of games. While technically a physical product, the inclusion of a download code means players will need an internet connection to acquire the game. A benefit of this method is that purchasers can begin preloading Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 12, a full week before its official release date of November 19. This preload schedule matches that of digital preorders.
Players who preorder or purchase Grand Theft Auto 6 before November 20 will receive the Vintage Vice City Pack DLC. Rockstar describes this as a collection of items that "flash back to when the neon burned brightest," offering '80s-themed cosmetic items.
Alongside the standard edition, an Ultimate Edition of Grand Theft Auto 6 has also been teased. With preorders commencing this week, there is speculation that Rockstar might release a third trailer for the game. However, this is considered less likely given the studio's past marketing strategies for previous titles.
Questions also persist regarding the pricing of Grand Theft Auto 6, with speculation about whether it will set a new benchmark for AAA games costing $80 or more. The November release window appears to be dominated by Grand Theft Auto 6, as many other game developers seem to be strategically avoiding direct competition by scheduling releases for December or early 2027 instead.