Grand Theft Auto 6 has achieved an unprecedented milestone, registering the highest purchase intent ever recorded by Circana, with 29% of US console and PC gamers planning to buy the title upon its release on November 19. This figure signifies that almost one-third of the target demographic intends to purchase the game, a level of anticipation Circana analyst Mat Piscatella described as a "rare cultural and commercial moment."
The immense demand is attributed in part to the 13-year gap since the release of Grand Theft Auto 5. Piscatella anticipates that this excitement will extend beyond software sales to encompass hardware, accessories, and gaming subscriptions as consumers prepare for the game's debut. The timing of Grand Theft Auto 6's launch, just before Black Friday and the critical holiday shopping season, is also expected to boost sales for consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. "Its anticipation and popularity reinforces the growing influence of video games on the broader entertainment and consumer technology markets," Piscatella stated.
While Circana's data focuses on console and PC interest, Grand Theft Auto 6 is currently confirmed only for consoles, with a PC version expected in early 2027. Preloading for the game is scheduled to begin on November 12. Prior to its official release, estimates from Sensor Tower suggest that Grand Theft Auto 6 has already generated approximately $675 million in revenue from around 7 million units sold through pre-orders. The company further projects that the game could achieve 25 million preorders and surpass $2 billion in revenue before it even launches.
Despite the potential for Grand Theft Auto 6 to significantly impact the gaming industry through increased hardware and accessory sales, experts caution that it may not resolve the sector's more fundamental challenges. Furthermore, players eager to acquire a new console for Grand Theft Auto 6 may face considerable expense, as current console prices are at an all-time high. Reports also indicate that the game's file size will be substantial.