GTA 6 launches on November 19, 2026. Use this checklist to make sure you can start playing Grand Theft Auto VI the moment it unlocks. Tick off each step and follow the links for details.
The GTA 6 launch checklist
- Pick your edition. Standard ($79.99) or Ultimate ($99.99)? Read is the Ultimate Edition worth it and see prices in your currency on GTA 6 price and editions.
- Buy before November 20 to get the Vintage Vice City Pack.
- Go digital for the GTA+ month. Digital pre-orders include one free month of GTA+.
- Know there is no disc. Boxed copies are a download code, see does GTA 6 have a disc.
- Free up storage. Aim for at least 150 GB, see GTA 6 file size.
- Pre-load from November 12. Step by step in our GTA 6 pre-load guide.
- Leave your console in rest or sleep mode the night before, so a day-one patch can install.
- Check your unlock time. It differs per country, see the GTA 6 release time page and our live countdown.
- Learn the new systems. Read up on the Heat system, switching between Jason and Lucia and the phone apps.
- Keep our map open. Use the interactive GTA 6 map and the mission tracker on your phone while you play.
Key GTA 6 dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| November 9, 2026 | Take-Two earnings call, last one before launch |
| November 12, 2026 | Pre-load opens, physical edition on sale |
| November 19, 2026 | GTA 6 launches on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S |
| November 20, 2026 | Last day the Vintage Vice City Pack is guaranteed with purchases made before it |
Good to know
- No edition gives early access.
- No online multiplayer is confirmed at launch, see GTA 6 online.
- Frame rate: previews report 30 FPS, see GTA 6 60 FPS.
- No PC version has been announced, see GTA 6 PC.
FAQ
What time does GTA 6 unlock?
Rockstar has not published an official schedule. Store listings point to midnight in each region’s main time zone. Check the release time page for your country.
Can I play GTA 6 early?
No. Pre-loading only downloads the game.
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