What to do first in GTA 6
Most of what makes launch night smooth happens before you press start. Here’s what’s worth sorting in the week before 19 November 2026, based on what’s confirmed.
Before 12 November
Decide between Standard and Ultimate, and between digital and a boxed code (price and editions). Clear plenty of storage, because the download size hasn’t been announced (preload guide). Turn on automatic downloads and update your console’s system software, as GamingBible recommends.
Preload week
From 12 November, digital pre-orders can preload and boxed codes can be redeemed (Take-Two). Check that the download actually started, and leave the console in rest mode so it can finish. If you pre-ordered digitally, redeem your free month of GTA+ before the deadline (pre-order bonus).
Launch day
Expect a day-one update on top of the preload, which GamingBible flags as likely to change the install size. Exact unlock times hadn’t been confirmed as of 18 October 2026 (release date and time).
For what to actually do in the game first, like building cash early, the cars worth grabbing and the map spots worth knowing, that’s what our unofficial GTA VI Guide covers. It’s a digital guide, emailed to you from 19 November 2026.