Rockstar readies GTA 6 to ship by release date, adding regional editions that may cut content

Before Rockstar unveiled the Collector’s Edition, it made backend revisions to its webshop. More storefront activity suggests a GTA 6 release date delay remains unlikely. New regional codes for the physical PS5 version have surfaced, although their significance is unclear. One possibility is that buyers in various countries will see content removed.

The most graphic Grand Theft Auto yet?

Ben/videotech spotted about 7 new codes, including DUT — Netherlands / Dutch, UAE — United Arab Emirates, and AUS — Australia. He suspects they accommodate varying age ratings. Certain nations are less accepting of violence, drug use, gambling, or nudity.

With the November GTA 6 release date fast approaching, some organizations like the ESRB have yet to issue a rating. Even if most bodies assign a Mature 17+ or equivalent classification, that doesn’t indicate widespread censorship. Still, given the history of Grand Theft Auto, some players may encounter altered or deleted scenes.

An obvious example is Japan, where developers edited several entries in the crime-themed series. In GTA 5, the target was depictions of scantily clad characters and prostitution. Otherwise, the title largely escaped major changes for other countries.  

Code in the box complications

Japan has one unique restriction affecting the physical GTA 6 PS5 SKUs. Unlike competing PlayStation Store regions, the code in the box expires 170 days after the November 19th release date. That forced Rockstar to add a disclaimer to its website.

Another concern is that GTA 6 pre-orders won’t be allowed in some areas at all. Rockstar’s store explains that “platform policies, regional regulations, and age ratings” may prohibit sales. Currently, the game is widely available, but several Middle Eastern nations are exceptions.

As posters noted, it’s questionable whether the European countries identified by the codes would receive different versions. Instead, Rockstar could be meeting regional requirements for product descriptions and packaging. Regardless, it’s a positive sign the company plans to fulfill orders on time.