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GTA VI Rumoured to Launch Digitally Before Physical Editions
Few studios generate the same level of anticipation as Rockstar Games, but the developer has also endured one of the most damaging security breaches in modern gaming history. A 2022 hack led to large volumes of early Grand Theft Auto VI footage spreading online, exposing unfinished builds and internal materials well ahead of release.
While the incident did little to dent enthusiasm following Rockstar’s official trailers, it appears the fallout may still be influencing internal decision-making. A new rumour now suggests Rockstar is considering a release strategy designed specifically to limit the risk of further leaks.
Digital Release Reportedly Planned for Launch Day
According to the rumour, GTA VI will launch digitally first on its release date, with physical editions following several weeks later. Reports suggest boxed copies could arrive three to four weeks after the digital launch, with some speculation even placing the physical release closer to early 2027.
If true, this would mark a notable shift for Rockstar, whose major releases have traditionally launched simultaneously across digital and physical formats.
The source of the rumour is Graczdari, a leaker who has previously shared accurate information regarding several high-profile releases. Past claims attributed to Graczdari include the release timing of Oblivion Remastered, confirmation that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is heading to Switch 2, and Microsoft Flight Simulator arriving on PlayStation 5.
While none of this guarantees accuracy, the source’s history lends some weight to the claim, particularly in the absence of outright contradictions from publishers.
A Strategy Aimed at Preventing Early Leaks
The reported reasoning behind a digital-first launch is straightforward. Physical copies pose a higher risk of leaks due to early shipments, retailer mistakes, or unauthorised sales ahead of street date. For a story-driven game like GTA VI, even small leaks could quickly spread online and undermine Rockstar’s carefully controlled rollout.
By delaying physical editions, Rockstar could significantly reduce the chances of discs reaching players early and avoid a repeat of past spoiler-driven chaos. Early physical leaks are not uncommon for major releases. Retailers breaking street dates, warehouses shipping stock prematurely, and resale through unofficial channels have all contributed to games appearing online days or even weeks ahead of launch.
For a project as high-profile as GTA VI, the risk is amplified. A digital-first approach would give Rockstar tighter control over access during the critical launch window.
No Official Word From Rockstar or Take-Two
At the time of writing, neither Rockstar Games nor parent company Take-Two Interactive has commented on the rumour. Officially, GTA VI remains scheduled to launch on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Until confirmation arrives, the report remains firmly in rumour territory. Still, given Rockstar’s history with leaks and the scale of GTA VI’s launch, the idea of a digital-first release is not without precedent or logic.
