Amid online backlash to Grand Theft Auto 6's physical version only including a digital code, some retailers have vowed not to stock copies of the game unless Rockstar changes its approach. Pre-orders for GTA 6 went live on June 24, 2026, confirming the base game at £70 and an Ultimate Edition with extra content at £90. However, many were dismayed to learn that physical copies contain a digital code rather than a disc, sparking widespread negative feedback.
Retailers take a stand against digital-only physical releases
American retailer Loot Box Gaming announced on X that it will not support the launch of GTA 6. Despite cutting off a lucrative revenue stream, the company stated it believes in the preservation of physical media. 'If a product can't honour the people who pay their hard-earned money to purchase it, then we have no business trying to sell it to our customers whom we value above anything else,' the retailer added. Canadian retailer VGP followed suit, citing a strict policy against selling digital codes in boxes. 'For nearly 40 years, VGP has been committed to supporting physical media and preserving the value of physical game ownership. As part of that commitment, our company policy is that we do not carry physical products for video game consoles that contain only a digital download code,' VGP said. The retailer expressed willingness to stock GTA 6 if Rockstar and Take-Two release a true physical version with a disc.
Mixed reactions and petitions for a disc-based version
Responses to both statements have been mixed. Some praised the retailers for supporting physical media and customers, while others noted the move would have little impact given the massive hype around GTA 6. Loot Box Gaming acknowledged this, framing its decision as a matter of principle rather than an attempt to damage sales. Several petitions have emerged urging Take-Two and Rockstar to release a proper physical version. Canadian retailer PNP Games highlighted that the lack of a disc prevents lending or reselling copies, effectively eliminating the second-hand market.
Rumour of a December disc release emerges
Polish website PPE.pl claimed from a reliable source that a disc-based physical version of GTA 6 is planned for December 2026, about a month after the November 19 launch. PPE.pl's source had previously predicted in January 2026 that GTA 6 would not have a physical version at launch, which proved accurate. However, Rockstar and Take-Two face little pressure to release a disc version, as digital games have outsold physical ones for years, and casual audience anticipation remains high. On ResetEra, many commenters admitted they would buy GTA 6 despite disliking the decision, citing their support for physical media.
Questions over the inclusion of a physical map
It remains unclear whether GTA 6's physical version will include a real map of the game's setting, Leonida, a tradition in previous GTA and Red Dead Redemption titles. Since physical copies lack a disc, some ResetEra users expect no map, with jokes that it might also be digital via a separate download code.
