GTA 6 Preparation Checklist: Get Ready to Play

1. Get the purchase and account right

Start here if you have not bought it yet. Check the console and store region, then pick the edition you actually want. A retail box contains a code rather than a disc, according to Rockstar, so it still needs a download. [1]

Already bought it? Check the game appears on the account that paid or redeemed the code. If a code fails, keep the exact message and the receipt. Do not post the code publicly.

2. Make room without touching your saves

Check the destination drive, not a combined total across your devices. Move or uninstall games you are not using. Leave saved-data controls alone. The storage guide below explains the PS5 and Xbox differences. [2, 3]

3. Start the download and check the queue

Use your store’s availability or countdown. Once downloading is available, check the queue is actually moving before leaving the console. If it is stuck, the download guide walks through account, storage and connection checks.

Pre-loading with plenty of time? Leave it running. You only need an estimate if you are trying to fit the download around something else. The calculator can use the speed shown in your console’s queue.

4. Share the PS5 if your household needs it

On a shared PS5, the account that owns the game enables Console Sharing and Offline Play. The other person can then use their own profile. The guide below shows the setting and what to check if a padlock remains. [4]

5. Keep the surprises for the game

Mute the terms and accounts most likely to post spoilers. Save the practical guides you might need, so a quick fix does not turn into a thumbnail full of plot details.

When you are ready

Check the download is complete and follow the game’s release countdown. Then have a look through the accessibility and control options before settling in. You have done the boring bit—enjoy the game at your own pace.