GTA 6 Collector's Edition hopes raised after Rockstar prepares for merch pre-orders

On Thursday, September 17th, Rockstar Games opened pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto VI: The Album. Now a series of backend updates to its store suggests fresh merch will drop a week later. While clothing may arrive first, some buyers still hope for a GTA 6 Collector’s Edition.

What is Rockstar up to?

Ben/Videotech highlighted several changes to the Rockstar Store, including a new wishlist feature. The content creator explained these revisions are rare and believes they point to an imminent announcement. Of course, that prompted speculation about what the studio has planned.

The most optimistic fans think a different GTA 6 pre-order option is a possibility. Right now, the webshop directs buyers to the PlayStation Store for digital PS5 Standard and Ultimate Editions. It also ships the $79.99 alternative with a code-in-box redemption. Regardless, unless the company can't produce enough physical cases, there is little reason to wishlist this SKU.

As the release date approaches, Rockstar hasn't hinted at another version of the game. Still, Red Dead Redemption 2 offered a Collector’s Box which contained a metal lockbox, a coin, and various trinkets. A similar bundle for the modern crime adventure promises to be extremely popular even lacking a disc. 

False alarms for collectors

Shortly before the album reveal, photos of what initially looked like a GTA 6 Collector’s Edition leaked. A black box held a Vice City T-shirt, cap, and other goodies. Unfortunately, it later became clear that it was more likely a press kit to promote the title.

The Rockstar Store already has merchandise that celebrates the studio and its past projects. However, gamers have yet to see pre-orders for clothing or related items specific to GTA 6. With GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, shirts were available ahead of their release dates.

Videotech also noted indications that the Kaseya Center in Miami will stock merch. A massive Welcome to Vice City sign awaits on the building’s roof, as part of a wider marketing campaign. Activity on the online storefront may be connected to items sold in the arena.