GTA 6 Launch Sparks 17% Surge in Time-Off Requests

A new report reveals that GTA 6's release has caused up to a 17% increase in time-off requests. According to data from HR software company BambooHR, as reported by Money.com, there has been a notable spike in requests for November 19. BambooHR found that requests for that day jumped between 9% and 17% compared to typical requests for the third Thursday in November. While it's not confirmed that everyone is taking the day off to play GTA 6, it's reasonable to assume that's the main reason.

Economists estimate a $1 billion loss in productivity in the United States due to GTA 6's release. While we'll have to wait and see the game's actual impact, it's clear this is a massive event. Anticipation for GTA 6 is extremely high, and it's expected to have one of the biggest entertainment launches of all time, if not the biggest.

Rockstar has also been spending heavily on marketing. The company spent $975,000 to install a massive neon pink sign atop the Miami Heat's arena. The developer also blanketed the city with in-universe ads for brands from the game, along with more traditional banners featuring key art. Fans in Miami can even eat at a real-life version of Burger Shot, a fast-food chain from the GTA universe.

Additionally, an unprecedented NBA game between the Miami Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks on November 18 will see the Heat transformed into the Vice City Heat. They'll play in GTA 6-themed jerseys on a never-before-seen Vice City court. It should be quite a spectacle and serve as an effective final marketing beat for the game.

GTA 6 will release on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. A PC port is also rumored for early 2027.