Eight times more PS5 copies of GTA 6 were pre-ordered than Xbox versions, at least according to IGN's tracking links. That number spread fast across forums and feeds three days into availability. Microsoft responded without delay. Behind the scenes, differences in preorder access, store partnerships, and timing played key roles. What seemed like a straightforward lead turned messy once details surfaced.
Origin of the Number
Out of nowhere, IGN's commerce crew began monitoring how often users tapped their shopping links. As each person picks a console through those buttons, it gets recorded quietly. Suddenly, PlayStation 5 choices started appearing far more than Xbox ones - roughly eight times as much. Without making a big deal, they shared the numbers like it meant something about what people want ahead of release.
Xbox responded immediately, telling Windows Central: "This doesn't represent pre-order data. We've had record orders. People should wait for real data and not clicks on affiliate links."
One side holds a valid point. It's true, the Xbox team says clicks on referral links don't count as confirmed purchases. At the same time, IGN isn't wrong - people were choosing PS5 links much more often than Xbox ones. Each group looks at separate numbers.
PS5 Wins Either Way
Should that eight-to-one number be too high, it still makes sense PlayStation 5 leads on Grand Theft Auto 6 reservations - three factors explain why.
Back in March 2026, Sony said they'd sold 93.7 million PS5s. Not too far behind, though - Xbox Series X/S sits near an estimated 34.7 million, since Microsoft hasn't shared fresh data. So when you line them up, PlayStation holds a clear edge, almost three units for every one Xbox. Numbers like these make the lead hard to ignore.
Out of nowhere, Xbox prices are climbing. Starting August 1, 2026, the Series X will cost $800 - a steep jump. Right when fans prep to order GTA 6, this move stands out. Microsoft might regret the timing. The shift doesn't reflect well on their strategy.
Out there, Sony locked down a powerful promotion. Across every part of their system, GTA 6 covers PlayStation like paint on walls. Meanwhile, Xbox sits silent - no matching move in sight. Attention follows where brands show up most.
Console Shortages Worsen the Situation
Both Sony and Microsoft have acknowledged console shortages heading into the holiday season. One major retailer told The Game Business: "We've been informed that because of the ongoing issues around hardware component availability, we won't be getting the units we want ahead of GTA 6. Demand will likely outstrip supply during the year-end period."
If you don't have a current-gen console yet and are planning to buy one for GTA 6 — don't wait. Shortages are real and November 19 is closer than it feels.
The Bottom Line
One thing only insiders at Sony, Microsoft, maybe Rockstar really grasp - how many people actually pre-ordered what. Chances are high GTA 6 is smashing sales totals on each system outright, though PS5 leads in percentage just by sheer device volume out there. That bold 8-to-1 ratio? Made waves online easily enough. Reality tends to be fuzzier, richer than headlines admit.