Spoiler-free
First-hours checklist Generic launch-prep items only. There are no mission steps, money methods, or collectible locations here, and none will be invented before they can be verified after launch.
Loading saved progress…. Progress is stored only in this browser (localStorage). It is not sent anywhere.
Confirm the right platform account Sign in on the console you will use and check that the account is the one that placed the order or will redeem the code. PlayStation’s official get-ready steps start with making sure the account is set up and current. Open related page
Check the order or redeem the code On PlayStation, Support documents how to review Order History and how to redeem a Physical (Code-in-Box) code from the account menu. If a physical code is missing or unreadable, PlayStation says to contact the retailer. There is no disc in the box. Open related page
Free enough storage for the install PlayStation’s official game page says to clear a minimum of 212 GB on PlayStation 5 before pre-load. Check Settings > Storage on PS5. Xbox’s official game page did not publish a storage number when last checked — confirm in the Microsoft Store or on the console. Open related page
Start or finish pre-load Pre-load opened November 10, 2026 (midnight local on PlayStation; 12:00 AM GMT on Xbox). Confirm the download is present and complete in your console’s downloads list so you are not waiting on launch day. Open related page
On PS5, leave rest-mode downloads enabled PlayStation Support’s get-ready steps: turn on Auto-Install in Rest Mode, turn on Stay Connected to the Internet under Features Available in Rest Mode, and use rest mode so the download can finish. Open related page
Update console system software PlayStation Support recommends turning on automatic system software download and install so the console is current before launch. Check Xbox system updates on the console as well.
If you share a PS5, review Console Sharing and Offline Play PlayStation Support says that if you share the console, enable Console Sharing and Offline Play if you want other accounts on that PS5 to be able to play the game. Open related page
Know your actual unlock time PlayStation unlocks at midnight local, rolling by country. Xbox Cloud Gaming starts at 1:00 AM ET on November 19. A native Xbox Series X|S clock time has not been announced. Do not rely on a single global countdown. Open related page
If you bought digital, decide about the GTA+ month Eligible digital purchases before November 20, 2026 include one month of GTA+. This is for the existing GTA+ service and library, not a VI Online launch. PlayStation’s FAQ explains how to claim it, that a paid renewal can follow, and that the offer must be claimed by March 31, 2027. Cancel in subscription settings if you do not want it to continue. Open related page
Plan to check accessibility and controller settings in-game PlayStation says DualSense haptics, adaptive triggers, and the integrated speaker are used and are adjustable in accessibility settings. Review those options after the game is open. This checklist does not invent in-game setting names beyond what official pages have published.
Decide your spoiler rules before you start Mute launch-week feeds if you want a clean first session. This site will not publish mission steps, collectible locations, or money methods until they can be verified after launch. Official fan policy also asks people not to post isolated story spoilers or pre-release leaked footage.
Clear progress