Key Notes
- Digital preloading starts November 10 at midnight local time on PS5 and at midnight GMT worldwide on Xbox Series X|S.
- Rockstar says players need up to 212 GB of storage depending on their device, ahead of the November 19 console release.
- Code-in-box copies are expected at retailers from November 12, while a free printable poster and Leonida map arrive at launch.
Rockstar Games has confirmed that Grand Theft Auto VI preloading begins November 10 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, giving digital buyers nine days to download the game before its November 19 release. Players will need up to 212 GB of free storage, depending on their console.
The start time differs by platform. PS5 downloads open at midnight in each player’s local time zone, while Xbox downloads open worldwide at midnight GMT. That means Xbox owners in North America can start downloading on the evening of November 9.
When GTA VI Preloading Starts
For Xbox players, midnight GMT translates to 7 p.m. Eastern and 4 p.m. Pacific on November 9, or 1 a.m. Central European Time on November 10. PS5 owners follow their local midnight. These times concern downloading the files ahead of release. Sony lists the PS5 game’s launch for midnight local time on November 19.
We previously reported on PlayStation Game Size’s claim that the PS5 download would be 210 GB, alongside a November 12 preload date. Rockstar’s new announcement gives players an earlier date and an official storage figure to plan around. November 12 remains relevant for people buying a boxed copy.
Rockstar says code-in-box versions for both consoles should reach retailers from November 12. Those buyers will therefore depend on when they receive and redeem their download code. Sony’s support page confirms that the PS5 box contains a code and that buyers must redeem it on their account before downloading.
How to Prepare Your Console
On PS5, open Game Library, choose Your Collection and select the GTA VI preorder. Select its countdown timer and check that automatic downloading is enabled. The console also needs an internet connection while in Rest Mode for the download to start unattended. Sony places that option under Settings, System, Power Saving and Features Available in Rest Mode.
Xbox owners need automatic updates enabled and their console switched on or set to Sleep mode. Rockstar’s preload FAQ links to the relevant settings and troubleshooting steps for both platforms. Checking those settings before November 10 gives players time to resolve an account or storage problem before the download window opens.
The 212 GB figure is an upper limit that depends on the device. It gives players a target for clearing space, although Rockstar’s announcement leaves the individual console sizes unspecified. For anyone sharing a console with several large games installed, the preload date is a reason to review available storage ahead of launch.
A Free Leonida Map Is Coming at Launch
Rockstar also plans to publish a printable cover-art poster and a Leonida map as free digital downloads on November 19. A physical, double-sided poster will follow shortly after launch through the Rockstar Store, priced at $0.99 separately or offered as a gift with a purchase.
In the meantime, the official site has in-game radio previews, music from GTA VI: The Album and the Only in Leonida section introducing Vice City and its surroundings. We also covered the launch trailer released on October 15.
