GTA 6 may have physical release postponed to avoid leaks

The calendar for 2026 continues to revolve around Grand Theft Auto 6, but those who still value physical media may have some bitter news ahead. A new leak, originating from insider Graczdari from the Polish site PPE, indicates that Rockstar would be planning a staggered release between digital versions and discs on store shelves. Currently scheduled for November 2026, the title would arrive first in virtual stores, leaving physical copies for a later time.

Rockstar's strategy would be a drastic measure to contain leaks. Historically, major releases like Starfield and Grand Theft Auto V have suffered from retailers breaking sales embargoes or carriers delivering copies ahead of time, flooding social media with spoilers. According to the leaker — who has a solid track record of anticipating moves from Microsoft and Sony — the delay of physical copies could range from four weeks to a jump to early 2027.

This trend of prioritizing digital is not new, but in a release of this magnitude, the decision sounds like a disrespect to collectors and preservation enthusiasts. Recently, we saw with the closure of Concord on PlayStation 5 how total dependence on servers and digital licenses can make a product inaccessible overnight. By delaying the disc, Rockstar pushes players towards the convenience of the PlayStation Store and Xbox Store, where control over the game copy belongs entirely to the company, not the user.

For PC players, who are already used to waiting years for Rockstar ports and dealing exclusively with Steam or the brand's proprietary launcher, the situation is just another chapter in the same story. However, for console players, having to choose between playing on launch day or owning the physical object is an unnecessary dilemma. More details about this possible release window should emerge in mid-February.

Would you be willing to wait an extra month to have the disc on your shelf, or would the pressure to avoid spoilers force you to buy the digital version at the first minute?