Reports claimed Rockstar and Take-Two’s game had received eight times as many pre-orders on Sony’s current-generation console as on Xbox Series.

Xbox has disputed claims that the PlayStation 5 version of Grand Theft Auto VI is selling at an 8:1 ratio compared with the Xbox Series version. An IGN tweet claimed that its community had pre-ordered Grand Theft Auto VI for PlayStation 5 eight times more often than for Xbox.

Based on data from IGN Finds and its commerce affiliate-link program, PlayStation was reportedly outperforming Xbox by an 8:1 ratio. An Xbox spokesperson has now challenged that interpretation, telling Windows Central that affiliate data should not be extrapolated and presented as a complete picture of the market.

Through IGN Finds’ and commerce affiliate linking program, the data is showing that PlayStation is outperforming Xbox by a rate of 8-to-1. Link in bio for more on GTA’s effect on console sales. #IGNSummerOfGaminghttps://t.co/Hc8yYr0FQJ#IGNSummerOfGaming pic.twitter.com/TaKQS2RgxH

– IGN (@IGN) June 27, 2026

According to the spokesperson, the affiliate figures do not reflect real pre-order data, especially as a record number of orders have already been registered. People should wait for actual numbers rather than draw broad conclusions from affiliate-link activity.

This week, Sony began revamping the user interfaces of its consoles and mobile app to coincide with the opening of Grand Theft Auto VI pre-orders. The company has also entered into a marketing partnership with Rockstar, under which Sony emphasizes that the game runs best on PlayStation 5.

Pre-orders for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI opened on Thursday. Rockstar confirmed that while a physical version of the game will arrive in November, the box will not include a disc and will instead contain only a download code. Based on earlier reporting, a traditional disc release later on also appears unlikely.

Industry analysts have said that the decision to release a physical edition without a disc will probably not have a major effect on sales and reflects the industry’s gradual move toward digital-only distribution. Chris Dring of The Game Business told VGC that he believes the decision is entirely in Rockstar’s interest, and that the game will still sell in enormous quantities despite the negative consequences for retailers.

“The decision will understandably upset some players and could potentially affect consumers who are less familiar with digital technology. But the truth is that it will not make much difference for most people. It makes it easier for Rockstar to continue working on the game right up until release without having to prepare something in advance for manufacturing and distribution. It also prevents pre-owned sales and reduces the likelihood of the game leaking before launch.” Chris Dring said.

Grand Theft Auto VI will be released on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles.

Source: VGC, Windows Central