Grand Theft Auto 6, the latest instalment in Rockstar Games' hugely popular franchise, is now available for pre-order, with the standard edition priced at £69.99 in the UK. A more comprehensive premium edition will retail for £89.99. This pricing marks an increase compared to its predecessor, GTA 5, which launched at a lower price point in 2013.
One of the most significant changes announced is that physical copies of GTA 6 will no longer include a game disc. Instead, purchasers will receive a box containing a digital download code. This decision has sparked discussion among fans and industry observers, particularly concerning the implications for game ownership and the resale market.
Freelance video games journalist Vic Hood commented on the pricing, describing the standard edition's cost as "fairly reasonable." However, she noted that the absence of a physical disc might "irk some physical collectors." From Rockstar's perspective, this shift to digital codes for physical copies could be a strategic move to reduce instances of rebuying and reselling, and to help prevent game leaks prior to release.
The game, rumoured to be one of the most expensive ever developed, is scheduled for release on 19 November for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S. Digital pre-orders will allow players to pre-load the game from 12 November, ensuring immediate play at launch. Physical copies will also be available from 12 November to facilitate pre-loading.
This move towards an entirely digital distribution model, even for 'physical' purchases, reflects a broader industry trend. While it offers benefits such as streamlined distribution and potentially enhanced security for publishers, it also raises questions about consumer rights, game preservation, and the future of the second-hand games market, which traditionally relies on physical media.
Professor Joost van Dreunen, an expert in the games business, described Rockstar's pricing strategy as "clever," suggesting it aims to cater to a broad audience while offering premium tiers for dedicated fans. The game will introduce the franchise's first playable female protagonist, Lucia, alongside her partner Jason.