GTA 6 Launch Hits as Console Prices Soar

Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to launch on November 19, 2026, but the cost of playing it is becoming a major hurdle for fans. As the game nears its release, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S have seen significant price increases, making it more expensive than ever to access the next entry in Rockstar’s flagship franchise.

GTA 6 Release Date Confirmed, Console Prices Rise

Rockstar Games confirmed the November 19, 2026, release date for GTA 6, and this week opened preorders for the game. While the date remains unchanged, the cost of the hardware required to play it has risen sharply. The PS5 base model now costs $649.99, up from its original $499.99 price, and the PS5 Pro is now $899.99. Xbox Series S and X have also seen multiple price hikes since 2025, with the Series X now priced at $799.99.

These increases are occurring at a critical time for GTA 6, which is expected to be a major system seller. The game is anticipated to draw in a large audience of players who may not have upgraded their consoles since GTA V launched in 2013.

Confirmed vs. Speculative: What We Know and What We Don’t

The November 19, 2026, release date is confirmed by Rockstar, and the company has opened preorders, suggesting a near-zero chance of further delays. However, the future of GTA 6 on PC remains speculative. While it is expected to eventually launch on PC, no official date has been announced, and hardware costs for capable machines remain high.

Microsoft has also noted that console storage and memory prices are expected to rise further, with costs projected to double by the fall of 2027. This trend could continue to limit access to GTA 6 for many players.

Why This Matters for GTA Fans and Gamers

For GTA fans, the rising cost of consoles is a major concern. GTA V became one of the most successful games in history in part because it was accessible across multiple platforms and generations. But with the PS5 and Xbox now priced well above their launch costs, many players may hesitate to invest in new hardware just to play a single game.

This is particularly problematic for GTA 6, which is expected to be a resource-intensive title. The PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X are likely the best options for playing the game at its full potential, but those models are now the most expensive.

Practical Impact and Next Steps for Gamers

Gamers who want to play GTA 6 on console will need to decide whether the cost is worth it. For those who already own a PS5 or Xbox, the game may be playable without additional investment, but for those who need to upgrade, the price tag could be a dealbreaker.