GTA VI pre-load moves up to November 10, with a download of up to 212 GB

Digital pre-orders of Grand Theft Auto VI can start downloading on Tuesday, November 10, Rockstar announced on its Newswire on November 3. That is two days earlier than the November 12 date given when pre-orders opened. The game still launches on November 19.

What it means for players

The start time depends on the console. As VGC and Kotaku relay Rockstar's post, PS5 owners can begin at midnight local time on November 10, so the earliest time zones go first. On Xbox Series X|S, pre-loading opens at one moment worldwide: 12am GMT on November 10, which is 7pm ET on November 9.

Make room before then. VGC reports Rockstar's figure as up to 212 GB, depending on the device; Kotaku and GamesRadar+ give it as 212GB. Kotaku notes that is close to half of an Xbox Series S.

The boxed version, which holds a download code rather than a disc, is unchanged: VGC says it reaches retailers on November 12, and Kotaku says a redeemed code lets you pre-load straight away.

Unlock time

Rockstar's post, as reported, covers when you can download the game, not when it unlocks. Kotaku lists regional launch times, but it points back to its own earlier report for them rather than to a Rockstar statement, and Rockstar has not announced an unlock time for November 19.

Also on launch day

VGC reports that Rockstar will post a printable cover-art poster and a map of Leonida as free downloads on its website on release day. A double-sided printed poster will follow on the Rockstar Store for $0.99, or free with any order.

For the editions and the original pre-order details, see our pre-order launch post and the editions page.