GTA 6 Boss Defends Disc-Free Copies

On June 25, Rockstar Games and Take-Two finally answered one of the biggest questions surrounding GTA 6.
The standard edition will cost $79.99, while the Ultimate Edition will cost $99.99.
However, the announcement quickly faced criticism because the physical edition will not include a disc. Buyers will instead receive a GTA 6 box containing a digital download code.
Some Stores Want a Real Disc
Several game stores have reportedly said they will not sell GTA 6 unless Rockstar offers a proper disc version.
The decision also comes as more companies move away from physical games. Sony is expected to stop releasing new PlayStation games on discs from 2028.
Take-Two Says Discs No Longer Make Sense
The subject came up during Take-Two’s earnings call on August 7. Zelnick said the industry is moving toward digital games because discs no longer make sense in some cases.
He explained that large games often require an internet connection and online registration anyway. Because players are already connected, he believes downloading the game is easier and more convenient.
Zelnick does not think physical editions will completely disappear. He compared them to vinyl records, which are still available even though most people now listen to music digitally.
However, he believes discs will only be offered in certain cases.
GTA 6 Pre-Orders Are Breaking Records
Zelnick did not reveal the exact number of GTA 6 pre-orders, but he described them as “exceptional.”
According to him, Take-Two and the wider gaming industry have never seen pre-order numbers like these before.
Still, he remained careful about what those numbers mean. No copies have officially been sold yet because customers can still cancel their orders.
Take-Two is staying realistic, but the company is also hopeful about the game’s launch.
Netflix Will Show More GTA 6
Zelnick also spoke about Rockstar’s partnership with Netflix.
The two companies will present an extended look at GTA 6 on August 27. He called the partnership the first of its kind, but did not reveal how long the presentation will be or what it will show.
Fans are hoping to see the third trailer, new gameplay footage, or more details about the game’s world.
Take-Two Defends the $79.99 Price
Zelnick was also asked about the price of GTA 6.
He admitted that Take-Two could have charged more because of the huge amount of interest surrounding the game.
However, he believes GTA 6 will still offer great value at its current price.
He pointed to the continued success of GTA Online, which still has record levels of player activity 13 years after it first launched.