Console shortages expected ahead of Grand Theft Auto 6 launch
In brief
- The upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 launch in November 2026 could trigger PlayStation and Xbox console shortages. See what it means for gamers.
- Retailers expect console demand to outstrip supply during the 2026 holiday season.
- Global component shortages, including RAM, are already affecting console production.
The upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto 6, scheduled for 19 November 2026, has put gaming retailers on alert. Expectations are that demand for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles will rise sharply during the 2026 holiday season, which could lead to a shortage of available units. This is not only a problem for gamers, but also for manufacturers preparing for a surge in demand.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers, this means there is a strong chance they will struggle to get a console around the launch of GTA 6. That could lead not only to higher prices on the secondary market, but also to frustration for players who want to join the hype around the release. It’s important for gamers to be aware of this situation and, if possible, secure a console early.
Timeline
2025-06-26: Start of the global memory supply shortage.
2026-11-19: Launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.