Grand Theft Auto 6 demand may be so high it will “likely outstrip supply” this holiday season, a video game retailer warns

Retailers are warning of significant console shortages ahead of Grand Theft Auto 6’s November 19th launch, raising concerns about supply constraints during the holiday season. With GTA 6 exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, retailers expect unprecedented demand as consumers rush to purchase current-generation consoles to play what is anticipated to be the biggest entertainment launch of all time.

However, according to a senior games buyer speaking anonymously to The Game Business, hardware component availability issues will prevent retailers from stocking the inventory levels they need before the game’s release. This supply-demand imbalance is particularly concerning given that PS5 consoles are already at premium pricing.

The shortage warning has sparked additional concerns about scalpers exploiting the high demand during the Christmas shopping season, potentially making it even harder for consumers to obtain consoles at standard retail prices. The situation presents a double-edged challenge: while the anticipated demand for GTA 6 should be excellent news for Sony and Microsoft, the inability to meet that demand with adequate hardware stock could frustrate consumers and benefit resellers.

Grand Theft Auto 6 demand may be so high it will “likely outstrip supply” this holiday season, a video game retailer warns

Sources