Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive are continuing efforts to protect Grand Theft Auto VI from leaks ahead of launch. A new report suggests the publisher may adopt a digital-only release strategy when the game first becomes available.
According to Polish gaming news site PPE, video game retailers claim that GTA VI will launch digitally on both consoles and PC. While digital-only releases are common on PC, the report suggests this approach will also apply to PlayStation and Xbox versions at launch. The move is reportedly aimed at reducing the risk of leaks tied to physical retail stock.
To have boxed games ready on release day, retailers must receive copies well in advance. This early access has previously led to images of packaging, discs, and even gameplay being shared online before launch. By delaying the physical edition, Take-Two can limit early access at retail stores and reduce the chance of information appearing ahead of schedule.
The same report notes that GTA VI is still expected to receive a physical release, though it will arrive after the digital launch. Retailers reportedly do not yet have a confirmed date for boxed copies. Industry sources believe the delay between the digital and physical versions is unlikely to be long, possibly limited to a few weeks.
GTA VI is currently expected to launch on November 19, 2026, following several delays. If the digital version releases on that date, the physical edition could still arrive before the end-of-year holiday period, depending on distribution plans.
Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have not officially confirmed a digital-only launch. Until an announcement is made, the reported strategy remains unverified. However, given the scale of GTA VI and the publisher’s focus on security, a staggered release would not be unexpected.
