Grand Theft Auto VI preorders are set to commence on June 25, beginning at midnight local time. Based on past major releases like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2, the launch is expected to be chaotic, with significant website traffic potentially causing crashes and delays.
To help mitigate the stress, a comprehensive guide offers strategies for a smoother preorder experience. It is recommended to bookmark retailer pages, such as those on Amazon, to gain an advantage when preorders go live. Keeping up-to-date with official accounts like @IGNFinds and @IGN on X/Twitter, with notifications enabled, can also provide timely updates. IGN's own GTA 6 preorder guide will be updated leading up to the game's release on November 19.
Navigating Preorder Technicalities
When faced with potential website slowdowns or crashes due to high demand, the advice is to remain patient and persistent. Adding the game to a retailer's specific wishlist, if available, can sometimes bypass the main page traffic. Ensuring that your account is logged in with saved payment and shipping information at your preferred retailers is also crucial for a swift checkout process.
The standard edition of Grand Theft Auto VI will be priced at $79.99, with an Ultimate Edition available for $99.99. Retailers such as Amazon and Walmart typically do not charge for preorders until the item ships, which can offer flexibility for managing finances.
Physical vs. Digital Copies
Grand Theft Auto VI will not include a disc in its physical packaging; instead, it will come with a download code. While this may not satisfy collectors who prefer physical media, the box itself might be desired as a memento of what is anticipated to be a monumental game launch. For those hesitant to pay the full $80 upfront for a digital copy or who wish to spread the cost, a physical preorder through retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy could be a more sensible option, as charges are deferred until shipping.
Physical copies are slated to become available starting November 12, a week before the game's official unlock on November 19. Preload for the game will also commence on November 12.
Understanding the Ultimate Edition and Bonuses
All Grand Theft Auto VI preorders placed before November 20 will include the Vintage Vice City Pack. This bonus content features a '55 Vapid Stanier, a garage near Ocean Beach, outfits for Jason and Lucia, and a weapon skin inspired by Tommy Vercetti.
The $99.99 Ultimate Edition exclusively offers digital in-game bonuses. These include several vehicles such as the Vapid Dominator Buggy and a retro '95 Grotti Cheetah, a Dinka Enduro motorcycle, a speedboat, and various upgrades and storage locations. The edition also provides access to additional customization shops, a Classic Car Collection side activity, unique weapon variants, bonus robbery content, and a wide array of cosmetic items for protagonists.
For players intending to spend significant time in Grand Theft Auto VI and its online components, the Ultimate Edition's extensive digital extras may justify the additional $20 cost. However, these bonuses are purely in-game.
GTA+ Incentive
Digital preorders will also include a one-month free subscription to GTA+. This subscription offers GTA$500,000 in-game currency, discounted Shark Cards, access to free and reduced-price vehicles in GTA Online, and a rotating library of classic Rockstar Games titles. It is important to note that GTA+ auto-renews, so users should manage their subscription settings if they do not wish to continue after the free month.
IGN Deals, with over 30 years of combined experience in finding deals and preorders, provides updates through its newsletter, Amazon storefront, and social media channels. Senior Commerce Editor Robert Anderson leads this coverage.