GTA 6 pre-load is live: start times and 212 GB file size

Pre-load for Grand Theft Auto VI is open, which means anyone who has bought the game digitally can download it now and be ready to play the moment it unlocks on November 19, 2026.

When did GTA 6 pre-load start?

Rockstar confirmed the schedule on November 3, and the timing differs by platform:

Platform	Pre-load start
PlayStation 5	Midnight local time on November 10
Xbox Series X|S	12:00 AM GMT on November 10 (4 PM PT / 7 PM ET on November 9)

Because the PS5 start was tied to local time, players in earlier time zones were able to begin first. Xbox pre-load opened at the same moment worldwide.

How big is the GTA 6 download?

Rockstar says GTA 6 needs up to 212 GB of available space, depending on your device. That is one of the largest console installs to date, so it is worth checking your storage before you start.

A few practical tips:

• Check free space first. On PS5, go to Settings, then Storage. On Xbox, go to Settings, then System, then Storage devices.
• Leave headroom. Consoles often need extra working space while installing, so aim for more than the listed size.
• Use a wired connection if you can. A download this large is faster and more reliable over Ethernet.
• Enable rest mode downloads so the console keeps downloading while you are away.

What about boxed copies?

Rockstar said boxed copies would be available from retailers starting November 12, a week before launch, so that buyers can redeem and pre-load ahead of release day. See our editions guide for what each version includes.

When does GTA 6 unlock?

The game launches on November 19, 2026. Unlock times can vary by platform and region, so check the store listing on your console for the exact time that applies to you. Our release date guide is updated as launch details are confirmed.