In short: Free up at least 212 GB, preload the game now and leave your console in rest mode with internet. Then you can start on November 19 at midnight without waiting.
Tick it off: All steps are also available as an interactive release checklist that saves your progress.
1. Free up storage
GTA 6 needs about 212 GB. On a PS5 that is roughly a quarter to a third of the usable storage.
- PS5: Settings → Storage → Console Storage → Games and Apps. This shows you what takes up the most space.
- You can delete games you aren't playing right now. Your save data stays, and you can reinstall later.
- Old video clips and screenshots often take up many gigabytes. Back them up to a USB drive first.
2. Expand storage (optional)
- PS5: The expansion slot takes an M.2 SSD (PCIe 4.0 NVMe). Sony recommends at least 5,500 MB/s read speed.
- Xbox Series X|S: Only the official Storage Expansion Card works. External USB drives can hold other games to free up space, but GTA 6 itself won't run from USB.
- Xbox Series S (512 GB): Only about 364 GB are usable, so GTA 6 takes up more than half. You'll almost certainly need to clear space.
3. Preload now
- Digital pre-order: The download starts automatically or from your game library. Preloading has been available since November 10.
- Boxed copy: The box contains a code, not a disc. Redeem the code in the store, then preload from November 12.
- Sign in with the account you bought the game with.
- Pause other downloads so GTA 6 gets your full bandwidth.
New since November 13: GTA 6 already has its first update before launch, version 1.002. On PS5 it is about 1 GB and is rolling out in stages. Rockstar has not published patch notes so far. Before November 19, check that it has downloaded: highlight the game → Options button → "Check for Update".
4. Set up rest mode
Let the console download overnight and be ready for launch:
- PS5: Settings → System → Power Saving → Features Available in Rest Mode → turn on "Stay Connected to the Internet".
- Turn on automatic downloads and updates so a day-one patch installs by itself.
- Update your system software beforehand to avoid surprises on launch night.
5. How long does the download take?
| Internet | 212 GB takes about |
|---|---|
| 50 Mbps | 9–10 hours |
| 100 Mbps | 4–5 hours |
| 250 Mbps | about 2 hours |
A LAN cable is usually much faster and more stable than Wi-Fi.
6. Set up captures (for your own clips)
If you want to save cool moments, set this up before you start:
- PS5: Settings → Captures and Broadcasts → Captures
- File type MP4 (plays everywhere), resolution 1080p (enough for phone clips and saves space)
- Recent gameplay clip length: 1 minute. After a great moment, press the Create button and save recent gameplay.
- Turn the in-game radio down or off if you want to post clips. The songs are copyrighted.
7. For launch night
- Fully charge your controller, ideally keep a second one ready.
- Avoid social media about the game if you want to stay spoiler-free.
- Snacks, drinks, phone on silent. Let's go!
Never miss a tip: One GTA 6 tip a day as a short clip, spoiler-free. Follow @neonpalme on TikTok.