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The release date of GTA 6 is Thursday, November 19, 2026, on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. The week before matters too: preload and boxed copies arrive on November 12, and the preorder bonus window closes on November 20. Here's a day-by-day schedule for launch week so you know exactly what happens when.
Key Takeaways
- GTA 6 release date: Thursday, November 19, 2026.
- Preload and boxed copies: Thursday, November 12, 2026.
- Preorder bonus deadline: purchases before November 20 get the Vintage Vice City Pack.
- GTA VI: The Album also releases November 19.
- Unlock time and file size haven't been announced yet.
GTA 6 Launch Week at a Glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Now to November 11 | Preorder, clear storage, set up accounts |
| November 12 | Preload opens for digital preorders. Boxed copies (download code, no disc) go on sale |
| November 13 to 18 | Finish your download, install system updates |
| November 19 | GTA 6 releases. GTA VI: The Album releases |
| By November 20 | Last chance to buy and still get the Vintage Vice City Pack |
Is the Release Date the Same Everywhere?
The date is the same worldwide: November 19. What isn't confirmed is the exact unlock time. Past Rockstar console releases unlocked at midnight local time on digital stores, which meant players in New Zealand and Australia started first. Rockstar hasn't said whether GTA 6 follows that pattern.
We'll post the confirmed time on our release hub as soon as Rockstar announces it.
What Happens on Preload Day?
On November 12, digital preorders start downloading automatically if your console has automatic downloads switched on. Boxed copies go on sale the same day, and you redeem the code inside to start the same download. The game won't launch until November 19.
Rockstar hasn't announced the download size, so clear plenty of space. Our GTA 6 size guide explains how much to free up.
Which Platforms Launch on November 19?
PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. There's no PC version on release day, and no PS4 or Xbox One version at all. For PC timing, see our GTA VI PC release date guide.
Anything Else Launching the Same Day?
Rockstar announced GTA VI: The Album on September 17. It's a 34-track soundtrack album with artists including Travis Scott, Morgan Wallen and Keith Richards, and it's also set for November 19. Rockstar also sells the $399.99 Vice City Collection merchandise set, which doesn't include the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the release date of GTA 6?
Thursday, November 19, 2026.
What day of the week does GTA 6 come out?
Thursday.
When can I download GTA 6?
Preload opens on November 12, 2026 for digital preorders and boxed-copy codes.
What time does GTA 6 unlock?
Rockstar hasn't announced the unlock time yet.
Is GTA 6 coming out on PC on November 19?
No. It launches on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S only.