Despite a leaked Best Buy affiliate email suggesting that pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto 6 would open on May 18, 2026, insider reports confirm no official rollout will happen until July or August. Journalist Tom Henderson, citing sources, said the email was legitimate but likely sent in error or ahead of a delayed schedule. Rockstar has not commented, but the silence aligns with the company’s history of tightly controlled marketing.

Adding to the speculation, Brazilian journalist and insider sources claim Rockstar will not send review copies to press or content creators ahead of launch. Instead, the company is reportedly planning secure review events at controlled locations to prevent leaks—a major shift from past releases like GTA V, which included early review codes.

This strategy reflects growing industry concerns over spoilers in highly anticipated games. While inconvenient for media outlets, it underscores Rockstar’s commitment to surprise and narrative control. The next major signal may come during Take-Two’s Q2 earnings call in August, when the publisher could officially announce release details.