The Sequel to a Game that Sold Over 230 Million Units Launches Next Month
Grand Theft Auto VI is set to launch on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, and it is anticipated to be one of the biggest video game releases of the year. However, players with slower broadband connections may face significant download times, with experts predicting waits of nearly 45 hours.
According to analysis by broadband provider Wildanet, while the game’s developer, Rockstar, has not confirmed the final file size, estimates suggest it could range from 150GB to 200GB, with some unofficial predictions reaching as high as 600GB. On a 10Mbps copper connection, downloading a 150GB game would take over 33 hours, while a 200GB file could take almost 45 hours.
Simon Hughes, chief commercial officer at Wildanet, expressed concerns about the increasing data demands of gaming, noting the inconvenience of being stuck watching a progress bar while trying to enjoy a new release. He emphasized the impact on other internet activities such as streaming and video calls, particularly for households relying on older copper broadband.
The Grand Theft Auto series has sold over 470 million units globally, with GTA V alone surpassing 230 million units. Having launched in 2013, it set a record by reaching $1 billion in retail sales faster than any other entertainment release.
Interest in GTA VI has been immense, with its first trailer amassing 93 million views on YouTube within 24 hours and a subsequent trailer garnering 475 million views across various platforms.
The two lead characters in Grand Theft Auto VI, Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, in Vice City, the fictional Florida setting for the new game. Credit: Rockstar Games.
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Main image: An official promotional image for Grand Theft Auto VI, featuring the Miami-inspired Vice City. Credit: Rockstar Games.
