Disc-free GTA 6 pre-orders force Sony to repost ad with digital PS5 console

To the surprise of some buyers, physical GTA 6 pre-orders do not include a disc. PlayStation apparently also didn’t expect the code-in-the-box standard and ultimate editions. After Sony deleted a social media post, gamers speculated that Rockstar was rethinking its collaboration. The ad is now back, but with the PS5 digital console instead.

Once Rockstar announced details and prices for GTA 6 PS5 versions, Sony capitalized on the hype. On X, Instagram, and other channels, an ad displayed the game’s release date and claimed that it “plays best on PS5.” Later in the day, this part of the marketing campaign disappeared, but a PlayStation Blog entry survived.

Fans immediately offered theories as to why the company removed the posts. One explanation was that the publisher didn’t want to discourage Xbox console owners, or in the future, PC users. However, the promo would return with an updated logo and a console without a disc drive.

Who is the blame for the blunder?

For such a high-profile title, the snafu is at least slightly embarrassing. It’s possible that, to prevent leaks, Rockstar provided even its key partners with few details about GTA 6 pre-orders. Yet, as the memory shortage reportedly limits Microsoft’s manufacturing, Sony’s platform is critical to its success.

The “plays best on PS5” slogan suggests that more PlayStation-centric promotions are on the way. In May 2026, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick referred to a marketing deal with the company. The second trailer was captured on the base console, and there have been rumors teasing a GTA 6 PS5 or PS5 Pro bundle.

If one of the systems offers performance perks like a 60 fps mode, it will only encourage sales. Still, smoother graphics won’t satisfy critics bemoaning the lack of a physical pre-order option. After paying an $80/100 price for the standard or ultimate editions, collectors won’t have a disc to show for it. It also makes reselling what is, for now, a single-player game difficult.