GTA 6 Collector's Edition rumored after pre-orders disappoint physical game buyers

GTA 6 pre-orders haven’t satisfied fans seeking tangible bonuses. However, there is new chatter about a Collector’s Edition which may surface ahead of the game’s release date. Although Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick downplayed the importance of discs, he didn't dismiss the chance of a physical component. 

Hope for Rockstar collectors

Currently, buyers can opt for a Standard Edition with a code-in-box or purchase it on the Xbox or PlayStation Store. Alternatively, the Ultimate Edition is exclusively digital but bundles additional content. Even so, veteran NeoGaf forum poster saintjules hinted that an expensive option with merchandise lurks.

The reference came during a discussion of the August 27th GTA 6 Netflix extended look. A source of saintjules explained that the presentation would last around 30 minutes. He then said, “There's also a 3rd edition of the game yet to be announced” and that the long trailer “Would be a good opportunity.”

The more recognizable HeisenbergFX4 then confirmed the claim. Known for PS6 handheld leaks, the poster suggested that clothing, like a hoodie, could be part of a Collector’s Edition. Rockstar impersonates real-world brands in GTA Online, but some players have called for added authenticity.

In the run-up to GTA 6 pre-orders, many insiders assumed there would be more than two SKUs. So far, a third option hasn’t materialized, and recent comments from the Take-Two CEO might cast doubt on the possibility.

Doubts over a disc linger

During an August 7th earnings call, Zelnick addressed the controversy over PlayStation's decision to abandon discs. The CEO noted that 90% of Take-Two’s business was digital, arguing that discs “don't really make sense for the consumer.” Protesters expecting him to defend physical games blasted the statement.

On the other hand, Zelnick said the publisher may occasionally release physical editions, making a comparison to vinyl records. Before Rockstar pinpointed the game’s release date, the executive claimed that its launch would have a strong physical presence. Critics believe that a code-in-box pre-order for Xbox and PS5 consoles doesn’t qualify.

It’s likely that a limited GTA 6 Collector’s Edition still won’t include a Blu-ray. Red Dead Redemption 2 offered a pricey version with a box containing keepsakes, but, outside of select retailers, it lacked a disc.