The Grand Theft Auto VI pre-download begins Nov. 10 for digital preorders on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Rockstar Games confirmed the schedule Tuesday, giving players nine days to prepare for the game’s Nov. 19 launch.
The early download will require up to 212 GB of available storage, depending on the console. However, downloading the files will not provide early access to the game.
Grand Theft Auto VI Pre-Download Times
PlayStation 5 owners can begin downloading the game at midnight local time on Nov. 10. Eligible players must preorder a digital edition through the PlayStation Store.
Xbox Series X|S preloading begins worldwide at midnight GMT on Nov. 10. In Texas, that converts to 6 p.m. CST on Nov. 9.
Players should enable automatic downloads before the scheduled start. A PS5 must remain powered on or in Rest Mode with an internet connection. Xbox consoles must have automatic updates enabled and remain on or in Sleep mode.
The Rockstar Games support page includes troubleshooting information for both platforms.
Players Need Up to 212 GB of Storage
Rockstar recommends clearing up to 212 GB before beginning the download. The final storage requirement may vary by device.
Players with limited space may need to remove older games or transfer content to supported external storage. However, PS5 games must run from compatible internal storage or an installed M.2 solid-state drive.
Download times will depend on internet speed and network traffic. Starting the pre-download early could help players avoid long waits when the game becomes available.
The game will remain locked after installation. Players cannot begin the story until the official release time on Nov. 19.
Physical Versions Arrive November 12
Code-in-box versions for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S are expected at participating retailers beginning Nov. 12. These packages will include a digital download code instead of a game disc.
Customers can redeem the code and begin downloading once they receive the package. Availability may depend on retailer shipping and pickup schedules.
Rockstar has not announced a PC version or release date. The Nov. 19 launch currently covers PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
A Return to Vice City
Grand Theft Auto VI takes players back to Vice City and the surrounding state of Leonida. The single-player story follows Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos after a criminal job pulls them into a wider conspiracy.
Rockstar describes Leonida as its largest and most immersive setting in the series. The game expands beyond Vice City with additional communities, highways, wetlands and coastal areas.
Preorders and purchases completed before Nov. 20 include the Vintage Vice City Pack. The bonus collection features a vehicle, garage, outfits, hairstyles and an exclusive weapon pattern.
With a download reaching 212 GB, players should check their storage and console settings before Nov. 10. Preparing early will provide the best chance of entering Leonida when Grand Theft Auto VI launches Nov. 19.