Quick Facts
- Publisher: Take-Two Interactive
- Base Price: $79.99 (Ultimate Edition: $99.99)
- Digital Focus: Over 90% of Take-Two's business is digital, according to CEO Strauss Zelnick
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has defended the publisher's stance on physical media, stating that discs "don't really make sense" for consumers as the industry shifts heavily toward digital downloads. The comments arrive amid ongoing fan backlash regarding the physical release plans for Grand Theft Auto 6.
During an earnings call on August 7, 2026, Zelnick addressed player complaints surrounding physical copies of Grand Theft Auto VI. Certain physical retail editions of the upcoming title ship with a branded box containing a digital download code rather than a playable disc. Some game stores have pushed back against the decision by refusing to carry the title without physical discs.
Zelnick pointed out that Sony is also moving away from physical media by phasing out new PlayStation games on discs starting in 2028. "In terms of our decision, our business is well over 90% digital. If it's a big game, discs don't really make sense for a consumer," Zelnick said during the call. "Most instances, you have to register online. That is where the world is going."
Despite controversy over the physical format and the base price of $79.99—with the ultimate edition priced at $99.99—Take-Two reports that pre-orders for GTA 6 are "exceptional" and "unprecedented" across the industry. Zelnick noted that while no units have officially been sold yet and pre-orders can be canceled, consumer interest remains high ahead of Rockstar Games' scheduled extended look on August 27, 2026, in partnership with Netflix.