Take-Two Squashes Rumors: GTA 6 Physical Copies Confirmed for 2026

Physical media collectors can breathe a sigh of relief. Despite swirling rumors that Grand Theft Auto VI might launch as a digital-only title or see its disc release delayed, Take-Two Interactive has set the record straight: physical copies are part of the plan for 2026.

According to a report from RockstarINTEL, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick addressed the speculation directly during a recent PR blitz following the company’s Q3 2026 earnings call.

The Rumor Mill: A Delayed Disc Launch?

The clarification comes in response to claims made last week by a leaker known as "Graczdari," who has previously accurately leaked information regarding Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Sonic Racing. The leaker alleged that while GTA VI would launch in November 2026, the physical discs would be delayed by several weeks, potentially pushing the retail release into early 2027.

In an industry where digital-only launches are becoming increasingly common for AAA titles, the rumor gained traction quickly among fans worried about preserving their physical collections.

"Not the Plan"

However, speaking in an interview with Variety, Zelnick shut down the notion of a staggered release. When asked if the physical version would be pushed to 2027, Zelnick stated firmly that it is “not the plan.”

While the wording leaves a tiny sliver of ambiguity regarding the exact day of release compared to digital, it effectively debunks the rumor of a significant delay into the following year.

What’s Next?

With the release date now set for November 19, 2026, and marketing confirmed to ramp up this summer, fans won't have to wait long for the final details. The upcoming marketing beats—likely including the opening of pre-orders—will be the definitive confirmation of disc availability, pricing, and the inevitable Collector’s Editions.

For now, it appears the physical disc is safe, and players will be able to hold GTA VI in their hands when it launches later this year.