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Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has defended Rockstar Games’ decision to launch Grand Theft Auto 6 without a physical disc. The game will arrive digitally on November 19, 2026, for supported consoles.
Retail packages will contain download codes instead of playable discs. However, Zelnick said Take-Two may consider a physical disc edition after the initial GTA 6 release.
During Take-Two’s first-quarter FY2027 earnings call, Zelnick addressed questions about the company’s digital distribution strategy. He said digital products now account for most of its business.
Zelnick described Take-Two as “well over 90% digitally distributed.” He added that large games require substantial storage space and often receive major updates after release. For that reason, Zelnick said discs “don’t really make sense for the consumer” in some cases. GTA 6 will use a digital-first model when it reaches players in November.
Modern console games also commonly require an internet connection for registration, updates, and additional files. Therefore, a physical disc may not provide the complete game without an online download.
Zelnick said digital delivery gives players direct access to the required files. He also described downloading games as more convenient for customers who already connect their consoles online.
However, he did not say Take-Two would stop producing physical products across its entire catalogue. The company will review each release separately.
Meanwhile, Zelnick left open the possibility of a GTA 6 disc version after the digital launch. He discussed that option during an interview with IGN following the earnings call.
“I wouldn’t rule out anything,” Zelnick said when asked about a future physical release. He explained that Take-Two had only announced its current distribution plan.
The company could adjust that plan later, depending on market conditions and customer demand. Still, Take-Two has not announced a date for any disc-based GTA 6 edition.
Zelnick compared physical games with vinyl records, which continue to serve a smaller group of buyers. He said Take-Two could occasionally release physical editions when the format suits a product.
He also rejected claims that concerns about GTA 6 leaks drove the digital-only decision. According to Zelnick, Rockstar chose the format as part of a wider move toward digital distribution.
Additionally, the chief executive said he does not expect the launch model to hurt Take-Two’s financial performance. Digital sales already generate most of the company’s distribution activity.
Zelnick discussed GTA 6 after analysts asked about reports concerning Sony’s physical media plans. Sony reportedly intends to stop producing physical PlayStation game discs from 2028.
Sony executives have said that ending disc production should not harm the company’s current or future business. They have also acknowledged strong responses from sections of the gaming community.
Some players argue that physical copies support ownership, resale, lending, and long-term game preservation. Online petitions and social media campaigns have asked Sony to reconsider its reported plan.
The UK Digital Entertainment and Retail Association has also criticized Sony’s direction. The group said the policy favors corporate convenience over consumer choice.
Even so, Take-Two has not announced a companywide end to physical releases. Zelnick said physical editions may continue when the format supports consumer demand.
For now, Rockstar plans to release GTA 6 digitally on November 19. Buyers seeking a retail package will receive a box containing a download code rather than a playable disc.
Also Read: GTA 6 Extended Look Set to Arrive on Netflix
