With Grand Theft Auto VI arriving on November 19, the demand numbers are starting to match the hype. Market research firm Circana reported on October 28 that 29% of US console and PC gamers say they intend to buy the game. That is the highest purchase intent the company has recorded for any video game, and it makes GTA VI the most anticipated release in Circana's tracking history.
What the Data Shows
The figure comes from Circana's PlayerPulse consumer tracker. It covers US console and PC gamers, not the wider public, so it shouldn't be read as 29% of all Americans or all gamers worldwide.
Circana analyst Mat Piscatella described the moment as "rare" for both culture and commerce. He pointed to a 13-year wait for a new mainline entry since Grand Theft Auto V.
A Boost for Hardware Too
Circana expects the impact to reach well beyond software sales. Piscatella said GTA VI could lift spending on consoles, accessories and gaming subscriptions through the holiday season. Some players who haven't yet moved to a current-generation system may buy a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series console specifically to play it.
There are early signs of that. Circana data reported alongside the announcement shows US PS5 unit sales up 22% in September, with hardware revenue up 43%. Some outlets credit that to GTA VI anticipation. Others point to a mix of game releases and bundles, so the cause isn't settled.
Intent Is Not Sales
Purchase intent measures what people say they plan to do, not what they end up buying. Circana's announcement didn't include a sample size or detailed methodology, and the record applies only to Circana's own tracking history.
The platform picture also matters. GTA VI launches on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, and no PC release has been announced. Because Circana's audience includes PC gamers, some of those who said they plan to buy may be waiting longer than they expect.
Where Things Stand
Pre-loading is set to begin November 12, one week before launch. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has long argued that nearly every adult with a console will want the game. Circana's number is the strongest independent data point yet in support of that claim. The real test comes when sales figures arrive after November 19.
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