GTA VI May Launch as Digital Only to Prevent Leaks & Spoilers

Rumors suggest Rockstar may launch GTA VI as digital-only to prevent leaks and spoilers, delaying physical editions until later. Here’s what that could mean.

Over the past few days, rumors have been circulating from industry insiders claiming that Rockstar Games and Take-Two may be planning to avoid any potential gameplay leaks ahead of the November 19 release by launching the game as digital-only, at least until early 2027.

If it is indeed true, this would mean there would be no physical (disc-based) version available at launch. Instead, all players would need to purchase and download the game directly through their console's digital storefront.

In principle, the idea makes a lot of sense. Physical game discs are typically printed, packaged, and shipped weeks before launch. While strict agreements exist between publishers and retailers, there are almost always cases where early copies leak - whether through broken street dates or employees acquiring copies early and sharing spoilers online. Rockstar have already seen this problem first-hand with the releases of GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2.

A digital-only release would significantly reduce that risk, as no one would have access to the game before the official release time and date. Rockstar could further strengthen this approach by launching the game globally at the exact same moment.

With traditional midnight launches, countries such as Australia and New Zealand often gain access many hours before Europe or North America due to time zone differences, which can still result in widespread spoilers. A true global launch would ensure everyone starts playing at the same time - even if that means an unconventional release window, such as 1 AM in Australia, 2 PM in the UK, or 9 AM in the US.

Given the expected size of the game, players should also prepare for a very large download. Depending on internet speeds, this could take several hours, followed by an additional installation process that can sometimes last up to an hour. To offset this, Rockstar may allow the game to be preloaded, enabling players to download most of the data in advance. If so, only a smaller final unlock or patch would be required at launch, allowing players to jump in almost immediately.

Why a Digital-Only Launch Makes Sense for Rockstar & Take-Two

• Eliminates early disc leaks from warehouses, retailers, and broken street dates
• Full control over release timing, including a synchronized global launch
• Lower manufacturing and distribution costs (no discs, cases, or shipping)
• Higher margins per sale, as digital storefronts reduce retailer cuts
• Immediate access to post-launch patches and updates, ensuring everyone plays the latest version
• Stronger data and analytics, including download timing, regional demand, and player behavior

Potential Downsides for Players

• Massive download sizes, especially problematic for players with slower or capped internet connections
• No physical ownership, which can be a concern for collectors or preservation-minded fans
• Reliance on platform storefronts, meaning prices may stay higher for longer without retail competition
• Limited resale options, as digital purchases can't be traded or sold
• Server strain at launch, which could slow downloads or prevent access during peak hours

The Likely Compromise

A digital-only launch wouldn't necessarily mean the end of physical editions altogether. A staggered release - digital first, physical later - could allow Rockstar to protect the launch window while still catering to collectors and retail partners once the initial spoiler-sensitive period has passed.

Another possible middle ground could be a "physical-digital" release model. Under this approach, players could still queue at retail stores on launch day and purchase a boxed edition, complete with physical extras such as maps, artwork, manuals, or collector-style packaging - but instead of a disc, the box would include a digital download code. This would allow Rockstar to preserve the excitement of midnight launches and physical collectibles while still maintaining full control over when the game itself becomes playable, eliminating the risk of early disc-based leaks.

If these rumors are accurate, it would mark a significant shift in how Rockstar handles major releases - but one that reflects the realities of modern game launches and the growing dominance of digital distribution.

Your Thoughts

How do you feel about a potential digital-only launch? Would avoiding spoilers be worth giving up a physical copy at release, or is buying a boxed edition still part of the excitement for you? Let us know in the comments or on our forums.