GTA 6 Preload Guide: Start Times, 212 GB Size and How to Preload on PS5 & Xbox
GTA 6 preloading is open now. If you pre-ordered a digital copy, you can download the game today so it's ready to play the moment it unlocks on Thursday, November 19, 2026.
Quick answer: Preload opened November 10 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. You need up to 212 GB of free space. Boxed copies contain a download code and reach stores from November 12.
GTA 6 preload start times
Rockstar set different start times for each console:
| Console | Preload opened |
|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | Tuesday, November 10, midnight local time |
| Xbox Series X|S | Tuesday, November 10, 12:00 a.m. GMT (7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT on November 9) |
| Code in box (both) | Codes reach stores from November 12. Download after you redeem yours |
Preload originally leaked as starting November 12. Rockstar then moved it up two days in an official Newswire post on November 3.
How much space does GTA 6 need?
Rockstar says the preload file needs up to 212 GB, depending on your console. A day-one patch may add more, so leave extra room.
See our storage guide to check whether it fits on your console.
How to preload GTA 6 on PS5
- Make sure you've pre-ordered the digital version on the PlayStation Store.
- Free up at least 212 GB on your internal SSD or a supported M.2 drive.
- Open your Game Library, find Grand Theft Auto VI and select Download.
- Turn on automatic downloads (Settings › System › Power Saving › Features Available in Rest Mode) so the console keeps downloading while it rests.
How to preload GTA 6 on Xbox Series X|S
- Make sure you've pre-ordered on the Microsoft Store.
- Free up at least 212 GB.
- Open My games & apps › Full library › Owned games, find Grand Theft Auto VI and select Install.
- Turn on Keep my console, games & apps up to date in Settings › System › Updates so patches install automatically.
Bought the boxed version?
The physical edition is a code in a box, not a disc. Redeem the code on your console's store, then download the game the same way as above. With a file this big, redeem your code as soon as you get it.
Launch day checklist
- ✅ Preload finished (check your download queue)
- ✅ Extra space free for a day-one patch
- ✅ Console set to update automatically
- ✅ Bookmark our cheat code tracker for verified codes on launch day
FAQ
When did GTA 6 preload start?
Digital preload opened on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. PS5 opened at midnight local time. Xbox Series X|S opened at 12:00 a.m. GMT, which was 7:00 p.m. ET on November 9 in the US.
How big is the GTA 6 preload?
Rockstar says the preload needs up to 212 GB of free space, depending on your console.
Can I play GTA 6 after preloading?
No. Preloading only downloads the files. The game unlocks on launch day, November 19, 2026.
Does the boxed version have a disc?
No. The physical version is a code in a box, so you still need to download the game. Boxed copies reach stores from November 12.