Can You Upgrade GTA 6 From Standard To Ultimate Edition?

Nowadays, buying a video game is a multi-step process that begins with deciding which version you want. That's no different with "GTA 6," which comes in several flavors, one of which is literally just a code in a box. The other major decision is whether to shell out $100 for the "GTA 6" Ultimate Edition or pay the still exorbitant $80 fee for the Standard Edition. All of this is very silly, but it would be even sillier if Rockstar Games prohibited those who get the Standard version from upgrading afterwards. Thankfully, things aren't quite that bad, as Rockstar allows players to upgrade.

Comparing the "GTA 6" editions highlights just how cynical things have become. Evidently, those who purchase the "GTA 6" Standard Edition will not only miss out on visual upgrades such as skins and clothing, but also extra story elements and locations. In other words, the Ultimate Edition is actually the full game and its lesser counterpart is merely a stripped-down version.

Many gamers will surely opt for the Standard Edition, only to experience buyer's remorse. Luckily, upgrading is relatively easily. Those who purchase "GTA 6" digitally can pay extra for the Ultimate Edition Upgrade as a digital add-on through the PlayStation or Microsoft Store, either on their console or web browser. That means they can essentially upgrade ahead of the game's actual launch. At the time of writing, the Microsoft Store and PlayStation Store both have the Ultimate Edition Upgrade available to pre-order for $20.

If you opt for the disc-less "GTA 6" physical edition, you will receive a game box that contains a code to download the standard version. The "GTA 6" Ultimate Edition is not available to purchase physically. Fortunately, you can easily upgrade by buying the Ultimate Edition Upgrade add-on from the PlayStation or Microsoft store after using the physical copy's digital download code. The physical "GTA 6" editions will be in stores starting November 12, and those who order the digital versions will also be able to start pre-loading on that date.

As if all this wasn't enough to bring us to the edge of despair, there are also the "GTA 6" pre-order bonuses to consider. Players can get a free month of Rockstar's membership program GTA+ if they pre-order the digital version of either editions, while also receiving extra content such as hairstyles, outfits, and cars.

For now, it's at least good to know that you can upgrade from the Standard to the Ultimate Edition at any time and it won't cost you any more than if you'd just bought the Ultimate version outright. But it does seem needlessly confusing and yet another way to squeeze extra profit out of a game launch that will already make billions of dollars. No wonder the "GTA 6" gameplay leakers gave Rockstar a set of demands designed to push back against this stuff.