GTA VI Preload Is Live Now: Pre-Download on PS5 & Xbox (212 GB)

The countdown to the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI has entered its final stage. Rockstar Games has officially made the digital pre-download available for players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, giving those who have pre-ordered the game the opportunity to install it before launch day. We covered all the details about the pre-load previously.

According to the official pre-load announcement from Rockstar Games, the pre-loading process begins on Tuesday, November 10, although the exact starting time differs between platforms. On PlayStation 5, downloads became available at midnight local time in each region. Xbox Series X|S players, meanwhile, gained access simultaneously worldwide at 12:00 AM GMT. 

GTA VI Requires Up to 212 GB of Storage

One of the most important details for players preparing for the release is the game's substantial storage requirement. According to Rockstar Games' pre-load information, Grand Theft Auto VI requires up to 212 GB of available storage space, depending on the platform. Players are therefore encouraged to check their console storage and make room before starting the installation. Given the considerable download size, pre-loading should help avoid unnecessary delays when the game officially launches. Downloading the game could take several hours. Actual download times will naturally vary depending on each player's internet connection and network conditions.

How to Pre-Download GTA VI on PS5 and Xbox

Players who have purchased the digital edition can find GTA VI in their respective console libraries and start the installation.

• On PlayStation 5, users can navigate to their Game Library, locate Grand Theft Auto VI among their purchased titles and select the download option. Those with automatic downloads enabled may already have the installation underway.
• Xbox Series X|S owners can access the game through the My Games & Apps section and begin downloading it from their purchased titles. Automatic updates and downloads can also help ensure the installation starts without requiring manual intervention.

Players who have purchased a physical code-in-box edition can begin pre-loading once they receive and redeem their code.

When Can Players Actually Play GTA VI?

Although the pre-download is now available, it does not provide early access to the game. Players will still have to wait until November 19, 2026, when Grand Theft Auto VI officially launches worldwide. According to Rockstar Games, the game will unlock at midnight local time in each region on both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

The new instalment in the GTA series will take players to the fictional state of Leonida, with Vice City serving as one of its central locations. The story follows protagonists Lucia and Jason as they navigate a criminal world filled with opportunities, dangers and ambitious adventures. After more than a decade since the release of Grand Theft Auto V, expectations surrounding Rockstar's next open-world blockbuster are enormous. With pre-downloads now underway, players can finally begin preparing their consoles for what could become one of the biggest video game launches of the year. GTA VI is already the most pre-ordered game in PlayStation Store history, according to Sony. Check our news section for everything you need to know ahead of release and use our comparator to get your copy of GTA VI at the best price if you don't want to miss it.