Some Retailers Refuse to Sell GTA 6 Because It Lacks a Disc

Two video game retailers have announced they will not sell Grand Theft Auto 6 because the highly anticipated title won't be released on a disc. Canada-based Video Games Plus (VGP) and independent retailer Loot Box Gaming both stated they won't carry GTA 6. Rockstar Games confirmed this morning that the physical version of GTA 6 will not include a disc; instead, players can purchase a boxed copy containing a digital code. The physical version releases on November 12th, a week before the game's launch, allowing players to pre-download the game using the code. VGP cited its policy of not selling games that only offer digital codes, and as a result, it will not sell the biggest game of 2026. The retailer emphasized that this decision is not a reflection on Rockstar or the game itself but part of its commitment to preserving physical media. "For nearly 40 years, VGP has been committed to supporting physical media and preserving the value of physical game ownership," reads a statement from VGP. "As part of that commitment, our company policy is that we do not carry physical products for video game consoles that contain only a digital download code. Based on the information currently available, the physical release of Grand Theft Auto 6 for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X is expected to be a code-in-box product. As a result, VGP will not be offering it for sale under our current company policy." Loot Box Gaming echoed a similar philosophy, noting that since GTA 6 doesn't come with a disc, it won't sell the game. "When we started LBG, it was out of a love for our favorite form of media, gaming, as well as the preservation of said media," the company said. "If a product can’t honor the people who pay their hard-earned money to purchase it, then we have no business trying to sell it to our customers whom we value above anything else." The lack of a disc appears to be a security measure by Rockstar to prevent leaks and control access to the game before launch. Given that GTA 6 is arguably the most anticipated release in entertainment history, there are concerns it could be stolen from a manufacturing plant, fall off a truck, or be sold early by retailers, leading to leaks. Rockstar may release a physical disc version in 2027 once the hype has died down. Major retailers like GameStop, Amazon, and Best Buy will likely carry the game in November, as they typically don't have issues with physical games that substitute a digital code for a disc. Of course, you can also buy the game directly from the Xbox and PlayStation stores. Pre-orders for GTA 6 have officially begun in New Zealand and will continue rolling out as midnight strikes in various regions. The standard edition costs $79.99, while an Ultimate Edition is available for $99.99. The Ultimate Edition has sparked controversy as it provides exclusive access to certain stores, missions, cars, weapons, and cosmetic items in-game. GTA 6 launches on November 19th for Xbox Series X|S and PS5.