What if Grand Theft Auto fans had to settle for downloading? This is what a new report relayed by the Polish site PPE, renowned in the video game industry, suggests. According to this media, GTA 6 would only be released in 2026 in digital version, both on PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The objective would be clear: to avoid any risk of leaking the scenario or gameplay images before the launch date. “GTA 6 will only be available digitally when it releases later this year, as Rockstar Games wants to avoid story reveals and leaked gameplay footage,” says PPE. This unprecedented choice for a game of this magnitude could disrupt the purchasing habits of players, accustomed to the boxed version.
Rockstar faces the eternal problem of leaks
This wouldn’t be the first time that a game has ended up in the wild before release. Whether it’s copies stolen from a warehouse or an unscrupulous seller, there’s no shortage of examples. PPE says: “it is certain that some, even many, will get their hands on GTA 6 before the deadline. It is inevitable.”
Rockstar Games would therefore like to avoid this scenario, even if it were to slow down initial sales. “Rockstar Games absolutely wants to avoid this situation, even if it means selling fewer copies at launch,” explains the site.
A risky bet… but potentially lucrative
This postponement does not mean that the game will never have a physical version. PPE mentions a delayed marketing, perhaps in 2027, but without official details. From a business perspective, this strategy could ultimately prove beneficial. The most impatient players will buy GTA 6 online as soon as it is released, before falling for the physical collector’s edition again, once available.
At this time, neither Rockstar Games nor its parent company Take-Two Interactive have commented on this information. New details could emerge in February. In the meantime, this report should be taken with caution: it reflects a probable plan, but one that is still subject to change.