Grand Theft Auto 6 Delayed Again, Kinda

Rockstar Games is allegedly playing with the idea of delaying physical copies of GTA VI to avoid leaks, instead launching with digital copies first.

We’re less than a year away from the launch of the next entry in the Grand Theft Auto series, in what will most likely be the biggest game of 2026 by quite some margin.

Before Rockstar Games officially revealed GTA VI in December 2023, gameplay leaks were circulating online, featuring a very early build of the game. I’m not sure what damage those leaks did internally, but I doubt it was something that the developers and parent company, Take-Two Interactive, appreciated.

Unfortunately, leaks have existed in the video game industry for ages, whether it’s leaked footage of an early build, top secret details or retail copies shipping out to customers before the official launch date. It's those pesky retail copies that Rockstar Games will reportedly focus on tackling for GTA VI.

Is GTA VI Being Delayed Again?

Yes, but we're still on for that November launch date, for now.

Rather than pushing back the release date for GTA VI, Rockstar Games might consider delaying the physical release and launching it digitally first.

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Information shared by Reddit user Fluffy_Moose_73 via Polish website, PPE, a source informed that Rockstar Games is considering not launching physical copies of GTA VI on 19 November 2026.

It’s believed this move will drastically reduce the chances of the game being sold early at retail stores.

As annoying as this news is for those who prefer to purchase physical copies, it makes sense for Rockstar Games to do this.

Simply put, if there are no physical copies to ship to retail, no physical copies should leak, and Rockstar Games will have complete control over the digital delivery.

There's another big reason why Rockstar Games would prefer the digital route

It’s no secret that publishers prefer selling digital over physical. Not only does it provide more control over the game you’ve paid for, but it also reduces overhead charges such as packaging and shipping. Will that mean a price reduction? Probably not.

Of course, we should take all unconfirmed rumours with a pinch of salt until proven otherwise, but I’m getting vibes of the truth behind this particular speculation. I guess we’ll find out in the coming months.

Grand Theft Auto VI will be released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Its PC release hasn't been announced yet.