In a move that could change the landscape of major game releases, increasing reports indicate that Rockstar Games is seriously considering releasing the eagerly awaited Grand Theft Auto 6 digitally first upon its official release in 2025. According to these reports, the physical (disc) version could be delayed for weeks or even months, in a strategy aimed primarily at protecting the game from the biggest nightmare facing developers: early leaks.
Background to the leaks: A harsh lesson learned by Rockstar
This trend didn't come out of nowhere. Rockstar itself was the victim of one of the biggest leaks in gaming history in September 2022, when its servers were hacked and over 90 videos of an early development build of GTA 6 were leaked. This leak revealed crucial details about the game's world and characters, shocking the developers and disappointing millions of fans. This incident, coupled with the usual leaks that occur when physical copies reach warehouses and retailers before the official release date, makes securing the digital launch a logical step to protect an investment spanning more than a decade.
The importance of the decision and its expected impact
Prioritizing the digital release has far-reaching implications for various parties. For Rockstar, this decision gives them near-total control over the release date, ensuring that all players worldwide can experience the game simultaneously without being spoiled by leaks. It also boosts the company's revenue through digital stores, which take a lower percentage compared to the supply and distribution chain for physical copies.
Impact on players and the market
On the other hand, this decision may not appeal to all gamers. A significant segment prefers physical copies as part of their personal collection, for later resale, or simply because their internet speed doesn't allow them to easily download games exceeding 150GB. As for retailers, delaying the release of a physical version of a game the size of GTA 6 means a substantial loss of revenue during the initial launch period, which typically sees peak sales. This decision could push the entire industry a step further toward a fully digital future, where physical discs become a secondary product for collectors rather than the primary means of play.
Ultimately, it seems Rockstar is balancing player desires with the imperative of protecting its biggest product yet. As the release date approaches, it will become clear whether the company will proceed with this strategy, which could set a new standard for game releases in the future.
