"Grand Theft Auto 6" pre-orders are officially live, but the excitement surrounding Rockstar Games' blockbuster release has been met with growing criticism over its physical edition.
Instead of including a game disc, the boxed version contains only a digital download code. The decision has frustrated collectors, physical media supporters, and game preservation advocates, who argue that buyers should receive more than packaging with a redemption code.
The controversy has even prompted several independent retailers to refuse to stock the current physical edition.
Independent Game Stores Refuse to Sell 'GTA 6 'Code-in-a-Box Edition
Canadian retailer Video Games Plus (VGP) has publicly announced that it will not carry the current boxed version of "Grand Theft Auto 6". The company said the decision reflects its long-standing commitment to physical game ownership and media preservation.
A Statement from VGP Regarding Grand Theft Auto VI
— VGP Video Games Plus (@VideoGamesPlus_) June 24, 2026
As gamers and retailers, we recognize that Grand Theft Auto VI is poised to be one of the biggest entertainment launches in history. The excitement surrounding this release is unprecedented, and we understand why so many... pic.twitter.com/dnGyPm5mrn
According to VGP, a retail box containing only a download code does not align with the values it has supported for nearly 40 years. The retailer added that it would gladly sell "GTA 6" if Rockstar Games released a version that includes a physical disc.
U.S.-based retailer Loot Box Gaming has taken a similar position. The company believes customers purchasing a physical edition deserve an actual game disc rather than digital redemption packaging.
More Retailers Question Rockstar's Physical Release Strategy
Although major retailers like Best Buy, Target, and GameStop continue accepting "GTA 6" pre-orders, several smaller game stores have expressed concerns about the release format.
According to ComicBook, Seattle-based Pink Gorilla has suggested that the absence of a physical disc could affect whether it stocks the game. Meanwhile, game rental service GameFly appeared to criticize Rockstar's strategy by highlighting upcoming titles that will still include traditional disc-based releases.
Will 'GTA 6' Get a Physical Disc Version?
Rockstar Games has not announced plans to release a disc-based version of "Grand Theft Auto 6."
However, reports from Polish gaming outlet PPE.pl claim that later production batches could include physical discs beginning around December. The report remains unconfirmed, and Rockstar has not commented on the speculation.
Some industry observers believe delaying disc-based copies could help reduce the risk of gameplay leaks before launch, since physical copies often reach retailers ahead of release day.
Convenience Doesn't Always Mean Good
For many players, digital downloads offer convenience. However, collectors and preservation advocates argue that physical discs provide long-term ownership, resale value, and better protection against future licensing or server issues.
As the industry moves further toward digital-only releases, "Grand Theft Auto 6" has become the latest example of the ongoing debate between convenience and true game ownership.
The Rockstar still has the final say about this. Learn more about the newest "GTA 6" screenshots here.
