Zelnick Won’t Rule Out GTA 6 on Disc

The debate over physical media in the gaming world has reached a fever pitch, fueled by major corporate decisions. At the center of this discussion is Rockstar Games’ decision regarding the release format of GTA 6, sparking questions about where the industry is heading and who truly owns the experience.

When asked about why GTA 6 would not be released on disc, Strauss Zelnick, head of Take-Two parent company Rockstar, defended the decision by pointing to modern consumer habits. Zelnick insisted that for video games, physical discs simply do not make sense for the consumer today. He noted that since everyone is connected online, the most efficient way to deliver a title is through digital means.

This perspective aligns with broader market trends. Take-Two’s sales figures overwhelmingly demonstrate this shift; more than 90% of their revenue comes from digital sales. As Zelnick put it, in today’s connected world, the method of delivery matters less than efficiency.

While the immediate focus is on Rockstar’s choices, the larger story involves a seismic shift in how video game companies monetize their products. This conversation is amplified by Sony’s own move to discontinue physical disc production for PlayStation starting in 2028, which has ignited widespread frustration among gamers who value physical ownership.

The backlash against Sony’s decision—which some critics view as a triumph of corporate convenience over consumer choice—has led to online petitions and calls for boycotts. Backers of physical media have actively sought to send a message that the demand for tangible ownership remains strong, especially when new games are constantly vying for attention.

For Sony, this digital-first strategy is driven by economics. Going all-digital allows the company to capture significantly higher margins. For first-party titles sold through the PlayStation Store, Sony retains 100% of the revenue. In contrast, selling physical copies incurs substantial costs for the retailer and manufacturing, which eats heavily into profits.

This financial reality is stark when comparing game sales models. While a physical copy might yield roughly 65% of the price for a first-party title after accounting for retail and manufacturing fees, digital sales offer much greater profitability. This demonstrates that the trend is less about technology and more about maximizing revenue in a rapidly evolving market.

Despite these industry shifts, the future of physical media remains uncertain. Zelnick indicated that while he sees a future where physical discs disappear entirely, he wouldn’t be able to predict a specific timeline. He suggested that some form of physical presence will persist, much like vinyl records still hold a niche in the music business.

Ultimately, whether GTA 6 or PlayStation games arrive on disc is less about technological capability and more about evolving economic strategy. The industry is clearly moving toward digital dominance, but the enduring desire for tangible ownership suggests that physical media will continue to find a place in the gaming landscape.