Entertainment · Gaming · 1 hr ago
GTA 6 code-in-box copies may expose download codes to theft
Rockstar is selling GTA 6 in physical boxes with download codes, not discs.
Buyers in some PEGI regions say the code is printed inside the case cover.
A flashlight can reportedly reveal the code through the closed box, so someone in a store could redeem it before the buyer takes it home.
North American copies appear to hide the code, though it is unclear why the packaging differs by region.
Some buyers are also disappointed that the box includes a double-sided poster but no map.
The code-in-box copies unlock on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Rockstar has been asked to explain the code visibility, and a response was not available in the reports.
Some PEGI-region copies of Grand Theft Auto 6 may expose their download codes when a flashlight is shone through the closed case.
The code is reportedly printed inside the cover and can appear in reverse through the packaging.
This could allow someone in a store to redeem a code before a customer buys the copy.
GameSpot said the trick did not appear to work on North American copies, where the code is obscured.
The code-in-box and digital versions are scheduled to unlock on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
- Who
- Buyers of code-in-box copies and potential thieves. The reports concern copies in PEGI regions.
- What
- A flashlight may reveal the download code through the closed case, creating a risk that someone could redeem it before purchase.
- When
- The reports appeared on November 13, 2026. The game is scheduled to unlock on November 19.
- Where
- The reported issue affects copies in PEGI regions; GameSpot said the trick did not appear to work on North American copies.
- Why
- The code is reportedly printed on the inside of the cover and visible in reverse when light shines through the closed case.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
A post cited by NME showed a customer unboxing a code-in-box copy.
NME reported that fans had been able to preload the game since Tuesday.
GameSpot reported that users said a flashlight could reveal codes on some PEGI-region copies.
Code-in-box copies and digital preorders are scheduled to unlock.
- Release date
- November 19, 2026
- Platforms
- PS5 and Xbox Series X|S
- PEGI-region packaging
- Download code reportedly printed inside the cover
- North American copies
- Code reportedly obscured; flashlight trick did not appear to work
- Physical edition extras
- Double-sided poster; no map mentioned in NME’s report
3 sources
What people are saying
No map is actually pretty disappointing
What is even the point of physical editions if we don’t even get maps? Will they add maps to editions sent out after launch?
Yeah I regret buying the ‘physical’ edition
Posts on X
Grand Theft Auto VI ‘Code in a box’ has finally been unboxed by an actual customer. As per reported already, it includes a double sided poster Source: https://t.co/HizIvlURSX