Grand Theft Auto VI marketing seems to favor PlayStation players so far. In fact, developer Rockstar Games has endorsed the PS5 version of the game. In an official blog post, Sony highlights support for exclusive features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers on a DualSense, Tempest 3D AudioTech for more immersive sound, and “near-instant load times” on the PS5’s SSD.

The lopsided marketing may also be influencing pre-order sales, or vice versa. According to outlets such as IGN and Mashable, data from their affiliate programs show a “stark split” between PS5 and Xbox Series X/S pre-orders. IGN claims PlayStation sales are outperforming Xbox “by a rate of 8-to-1”. In response, Microsoft/Xbox has spoken out to downplay the early results.

GTA 6 has had “record orders” for the Xbox Series X/S, says Microsoft

Publications have made it clear that the pre-order data is simply tracked from its own affiliate links, rather than being reflective of the entire market. This means there could be some bias in play, and that’s the angle Xbox wants you to consider. In a statement shared to Windows Central, a spokesperson responds by saying the company has had “record orders” for GTA 6 on Xbox.

This doesn’t represent pre-order data. We’ve had record orders. People should wait for real data and not clicks on affiliate links.”

Xbox spokesperson, via Windows Central

Microsoft’s gaming division has had a rough couple of weeks, between console price hikes and rumored studio closures. Both of which may prove to distract its fanbase from GTA 6 pre-orders. Rockstar kicked off pre-orders on June 25 (the very same day Xbox announced its new console prices, with a $100 rise for 512GB and a $150 rise for 1TB models). Perhaps not the best timing.

Grand Theft Auto VI is penciled in for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on November 19. There has been no official word of a PC version just yet; a rumor earlier this year suggested it could be coming earlier than expected in early 2027. Either way, everyone’s focus is currently on the console pre-orders – and Xbox looks to be far behind its biggest rivals.

Reports also show Rockstar Games favoring the PS5 version in its YouTube and TikTok marketing posts, with links redirecting to the PlayStation Store or to https://rockstargames.com/VI/PS5, which also features the “Plays best on PS5” logo.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.