Things to Do While Waiting for GTA 6 (2026)
Last Updated: July 2026
Grand Theft Auto VI drops on November 19, 2026, and the wait is real. Rockstar’s first new GTA in over a decade brings us to Vice City and the sprawling state of Leonida — a fictional Florida packed with dual protagonists Jason and Lucia, the most detailed open world Rockstar has ever built, and the kind of cultural event that only happens once a console generation. But we’ve still got months to go, and that hype isn’t going to sustain itself on trailer re-watches alone. You need a plan. Below, we’ve rounded up the best games, gear, and activities to fill every waking moment between now and launch day — from replaying GTA classics to upgrading your controller for the big day. Here’s how to survive the wait.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate as of July 2026 and may change.
Quick Picks: Best Things to Do While Waiting for GTA 6
| Rank | Product | Platform | Best For | Price | Rating | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | GTA V Premium Edition | PS5 | Replay the Classic | ~$20 | ★★★★★ | The GTA experience, cheap |
| #2 | GTA Online Shark Cards | PS5/Xbox | Stock Up for Online | ~$10-$100 | ★★★★ | Get ahead in GTA Online |
| #3 | Red Dead Redemption 2 | PS5 | Rockstar’s Last Masterpiece | ~$40 | ★★★★★ | Same studio, same DNA |
| #4 | Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition | PS5 | Scratch the Open-World Itch | ~$49 | ★★★★★ | Massive open-world experience |
| #5 | PlayStation Store Gift Card | PS5 | Save for Launch Day | ~$25-$100 | ★★★★½ | Lock in your GTA 6 pre-order |
| #6 | GTA 6 Pre-Order (PS5) | PS5 | Lock In Your Copy | ~$80 | ★★★★★ | Guarantee launch-day delivery |
| #7 | DualSense Edge Controller | PS5 | Upgrade Your Controller | ~$199 | ★★★★½ | Pro controller for launch day |
#1 — GTA V Premium Edition (PS5) — Replay the Classic
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC
Price: ~$20
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
There’s no better way to prepare for GTA 6 than replaying the game that defined the last decade of open-world gaming. GTA V Premium Edition includes the full story mode, the Criminal Enterprise starter pack for GTA Online, and all the upgrades that make Los Santos look better than ever on current-gen hardware. At twenty bucks, it’s the cheapest time machine in gaming.
Key Features
- Full Story Mode: Replay the legendary Michael, Franklin, and Trevor campaign — three protagonists was a first for GTA, and GTA 6’s Jason and Lucia are the next evolution.
- GTA Online Access: Jump into the living online world of Los Santos — the most successful online crime sandbox ever made.
- Premium Bundles: Includes the Criminal Enterprise Starter Pack to fast-track your GTA Online career.
- Current-Gen Visuals: Enhanced graphics and performance on PS5 for the definitive way to replay.
- Infinite Content: Hundreds of hours of missions, heists, races, and emergent chaos.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
GTA V is the direct predecessor to GTA 6, and replaying it is genuinely the best preparation you can do. The three-protagonist system Rockstar pioneered here is evolving into the dual-protagonist Jason and Lucia dynamic. The heist mission structure will almost certainly return in GTA 6. And the way Los Santos feels alive — the NPCs, the radio stations, the random encounters — is the foundation that Vice City and Leonida will build on.
Plus, GTA Online itself is the testing ground for GTA 6’s online mode. Everything Rockstar has learned about live-service crime worlds over the past decade is in GTA Online. Playing it now means you’ll appreciate how far the formula has come when GTA 6 Online launches.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Essential GTA experience | You’ve probably played it before |
| Incredible value at ~$20 | Some GTA Online modes feel dated |
| Three protagonists to revisit | Loading times can be long |
| Massive content library | Story is very familiar by now |
| Perfect prep for GTA 6 |
Verdict
If you haven’t replayed GTA V recently, now is the time. It’s the best twenty dollars you’ll spend before November.
#2 — GTA Online Shark Cards — Stock Up for GTA Online
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Price: ~$10-$100
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
GTA Online runs on GTA$, and Shark Cards are the fastest way to build your bankroll. Whether you want to buy that dream supercar, upgrade your nightclub empire, or fund your next heist setup, Shark Cards give you the in-game cash to skip the grind. If you’re actively playing GTA Online while waiting for GTA 6 — or planning to hit the ground running when GTA 6 Online launches — stocking up now is smart.
Key Features
- In-Game Currency: GTA$ deposited directly to your Maze Bank account for instant spending power.
- Multiple Tiers: From the $100K Red Shark to the $8M Megalodon — choose how much you need.
- No Grind Required: Skip hours of repetitive missions and get straight to the fun content.
- Works Across All Modes: Spend on cars, properties, weapons, businesses, and more.
- Instant Delivery: Codes redeem immediately on your console account.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
If you’re maintaining your GTA Online empire as a “holdover” activity before GTA 6, Shark Cards let you experience the high-end content — the CEO offices, the underground bunkers, the flying cars — without spending weeks grinding. More importantly, GTA 6’s online mode will likely have a similar microtransaction economy. Understanding how GTA Online’s financial systems work now will give you a head start when Leonida opens for business.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Instant in-game wealth | Microtransactions aren’t for everyone |
| Unlocks high-end content | Can feel like paying to skip |
| Multiple price tiers | Value varies by card tier |
| No grinding required | Not a physical product |
| Redeems instantly |
Verdict
Not for purists, but if you want to experience everything GTA Online offers without the grind, Shark Cards get you there fast.
#3 — Red Dead Redemption 2 (PS5) — Rockstar’s Last Masterpiece
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC
Price: ~$40
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
Red Dead Redemption 2 is Rockstar’s most recent game — and the clearest preview of what GTA 6 will deliver. The meticulous world-building, the cinematic storytelling, the living ecosystem of NPCs with their own routines — this is the studio firing on every cylinder. If you want to understand what makes Rockstar different from every other developer, this is the game to play.
Key Features
- Rockstar’s Masterpiece: The game GTA 6’s developers made right before GTA 6 — same philosophy, same ambition, same attention to detail.
- Arthur Morgan’s Saga: A career-defining performance and one of gaming’s most acclaimed narratives.
- Living World: NPCs with daily routines, dynamic weather systems, and wildlife that behaves like wildlife.
- Stunning on PS5: Enhanced visuals and performance for the definitive experience.
- Red Dead Online: Co-op missions and free roam for when you want company.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
RDR2 is the most direct preview of GTA 6’s quality bar. Everything Rockstar learned about building living worlds — the way strangers have their own stories, the way the law tracks your crimes, the way a town feels different at sunset — is on full display here. GTA 6’s dual protagonists, online integration, and Vice City setting all build on this foundation.
Playing RDR2 now also calibrates your expectations. When GTA 6 launches, you’ll know exactly what Rockstar is capable of, which makes the anticipation more grounded. And if you somehow haven’t played it yet, this wait period is the perfect window.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of the best games ever made | Deliberately slow pacing |
| Unmatched world detail | Simulation elements can feel tedious |
| 60+ hour story campaign | Some controls feel heavy |
| Visually breathtaking | Not a crime story per se |
| From the GTA 6 developers |
Verdict
If you haven’t played RDR2 yet, the wait for GTA 6 is the perfect excuse. It’s homework that doesn’t feel like homework.
#4 — Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition (PS5) — Scratch the Open-World Itch
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Price: ~$49
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
When you need an open-world fix that isn’t GTA, Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition is the answer. The base game plus the Phantom Liberty expansion and all updates deliver a massive, neon-soaked city full of crime, cars, and chaos. It’s the closest non-Rockstar experience to what GTA 6 promises, and it’s now in its best form after years of refinement.
Key Features
- Night City: A staggering open world that rivals Rockstar’s best — vertical, dense, and packed with detail.
- Complete Edition: Base game + Phantom Liberty expansion + all updates in one package.
- Vehicular Combat: Drive and fight through the city in high-speed action sequences.
- Branching Narrative: Deep story with multiple endings and meaningful choices.
- Build Flexibility: Netrunner, ninja, or gunslinger — play your way.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
Cyberpunk delivers the GTA-style loop — open world, crime story, driving, shooting — in a cyberpunk skin that feels fresh. The wanted system, the gang territories, the mission variety: all of it will feel familiar to GTA fans. If Vice City’s urban sprawl has you hungry for city-based open-world chaos, Night City is the best substitute available.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Massive, stunning open world | First-person focused |
| Deep, rewarding storyline | Skill system can overwhelm |
| Driving and shooting feel great | Best on current-gen only |
| Huge content value | Some remnants of launch jank |
| Phantom Liberty is superb |
Verdict
The best non-Rockstar open-world crime game available. Perfect for filling the GTA 6 void.
#5 — PlayStation Store Gift Card — Save for Launch Day
Platform: PS5
Price: ~$25-$100
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
![$100 PlayStation Store Gift Card [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51JLY4kBluL._SL500_.jpg)
Sometimes the smartest thing to do while waiting is to save your money for the main event. A PlayStation Store gift card locks your gaming budget into your PSN wallet, ensuring that when November 19 arrives, you’re ready to pre-load GTA 6 the second it goes live. It’s also a great gift for the GTA fan in your life who’s impossible to shop for.
Key Features
- Wallet Funds: Add credit to your PSN account for digital purchases.
- No Expiration: Funds stay in your wallet until you’re ready to spend them.
- Multiple Denominations: $25, $50, $75, or $100 — choose your launch budget.
- Digital Delivery: Instant code via email — perfect for last-minute gifts.
- Works for Pre-Orders: Use funds to pre-order GTA 6 directly from the PlayStation Store.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
The PlayStation Store is likely where most PS5 players will buy GTA 6 — and pre-loading means you’re playing at 12:01 AM on launch night. A gift card now means your funds are ready and earmarked. It also removes the temptation to spend that money on something else between now and November.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ensures funds for launch day | Only useful on PlayStation |
| No expiration on wallet funds | Digital-only product |
| Great gift option | |
| Multiple denominations | Locked to PSN ecosystem |
| Instant digital delivery |
Verdict
Simple, practical, and smart. If you know you’re buying GTA 6 digitally, get your wallet ready now.
#6 — GTA 6 Pre-Order (PS5) — Lock In Your Copy
Platform: PS5
Price: ~$80
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
The most important thing you can do while waiting for GTA 6 is to guarantee you’ll actually have it on November 19, 2026. Pre-ordering locks in your copy, ensures launch-day delivery, and in many cases comes with bonus in-game content. The standard edition is $79.99 and includes the full base game — everything you need for the Vice City experience.
Key Features
- Launch-Day Guarantee: Pre-order ensures you get the game on November 19, 2026 — no sellouts, no waiting.
- Standard Edition ($79.99): Full base game with all story and online content.
- Bonus Content: Many pre-orders include exclusive in-game items or currency.
- Physical or Digital: Choose a disc for your collection or digital for instant pre-load.
- Cross-Retailer Availability: Amazon pre-orders ship fast and reliably.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
This is the whole point. Everything else on this list is a way to pass the time — but this is the destination. Pre-ordering now gives you a tangible stake in November 19, 2026. It transforms the wait from “counting days” to “counting down to something I already own a piece of.” If you haven’t pre-ordered yet, do it today.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Guaranteed launch-day copy | Requires paying upfront |
| Standard edition is complete | Ultimate edition is pricier |
| Potential bonus content | Release date could shift (unlikely) |
| Physical and digital options | Pre-order bonuses vary by retailer |
| Ships from Amazon on day one |
Verdict
Non-negotiable for serious GTA fans. Lock it in now and let the countdown begin for real.
#7 — DualSense Edge Controller — Upgrade Your Controller
Platform: PS5
Price: ~$199
Amazon Link: Check Price on Amazon
GTA 6 is going to be a game you sink hundreds of hours into. If you’re still using the controller that came with your PS5, upgrading to the DualSense Edge before launch is a meaningful investment in your comfort and performance. The Edge adds customizable back buttons, adjustable triggers, and swappable stick modules — pro features that matter for long open-world sessions and competitive online play.
Key Features
- Customizable Back Buttons: Map any function to two rear paddles for faster inputs without moving your thumbs.
- Adjustable Trigger Stops: Shorten the pull on L2/R2 for faster shooting response — crucial for GTA Online firefights.
- Swappable Stick Modules: Replace worn analog sticks without buying a whole new controller.
- On-Controller Profile Switching: Save multiple control profiles and swap between them instantly.
- Premium Build: Higher-quality materials and finish than the standard DualSense.
Why It’s Great for GTA 6 Fans
GTA 6 is a game of driving, shooting, flying, and exploring — all controller-intensive activities. The Edge’s back buttons let you keep your thumbs on the sticks while accessing functions that normally require awkward finger gymnastics. The trigger stops give you faster shooting response for combat missions and online play. If you’re going to spend 200+ hours in Vice City, do it with a controller designed for serious play.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pro-level customization | Expensive at ~$199 |
| Swappable components | No haptic feedback improvement |
| Trigger stops for fast shooting | Battery life is shorter |
| Premium build quality | Back buttons take practice |
| Official Sony product |
Verdict
A serious investment, but one that pays off across every game you play — not just GTA 6. If you can swing it, upgrade before launch.
Beyond Buying: Free Things to Do While Waiting
Not every way to pass the time costs money. Here are the best free activities to fuel your GTA 6 hype:
Rewatch the Trailers Frame by Frame
The GTA 6 trailers are packed with detail — every frame has environmental clues, character moments, and world-building secrets. Watch at 0.25x speed and take notes. You’ll catch things you missed: store names, vehicle models, NPC behaviors, Leonida geography. Fan communities have compiled entire breakdowns — seek them out and compare findings.
Join r/GTA6 on Reddit
The GTA 6 subreddit is the internet’s largest hub for news, speculation, leaks, and fan theories. It’s where the community collectively analyzes every new screenshot, debate release details, and share hype. It’s also the fastest way to catch breaking news as Rockstar drops it.
Study Vice City Maps
GTA 6’s Leonida is based on Florida, and the original Vice City maps are the foundation. Print out the GTA Vice City map, study the neighborhoods, and trace where the new game’s locations might overlap. You’ll walk into GTA 6 already knowing the geography.
Replay GTA Vice City Stories
If you have access to a PSP emulator or a PS2, replay Vice City Stories — the last game set in the Vice City universe before GTA 6. It establishes the world’s criminal ecosystem and tone that GTA 6 will expand upon.
Listen to GTA Radio Stations on Spotify
Rockstar’s radio stations are legendary — the music, the DJs, the commercials, the talk shows. Many GTA radio playlists exist on Spotify. Listening to them keeps you in the world and reminds you how much personality Rockstar packs into audio.
Speculate About Jason and Lucia
GTA 6’s dual protagonists are inspired by the real-life Bonnie and Clyde. Research their story, watch the Netflix mini-series, and theorize about how Jason and Lucia’s relationship will drive the narrative. The trailers hint at a deep, complicated bond — start imagining where it goes.
Map Leonida from Trailer Screenshots
Dedicated fans are already constructing maps of Leonida from trailer footage. Find these fan-made maps online, compare them, and track what’s been confirmed. When the game launches, you’ll have a head start on navigation.
What to Look for When Planning Your GTA 6 Wait
1. Mix Story and Online Content
Balance single-player games (GTA V, RDR2, Cyberpunk) with online experiences (GTA Online). Variety keeps the wait fresh and prevents burnout on any one game.
2. Budget for Launch Day
Between the game itself ($79.99 standard, $99.99 ultimate), potential DLC, and online currency, launch day is expensive. Set aside funds now via a PlayStation Store gift card so you’re ready.
3. Upgrade Your Gear Early
If you’re buying a new controller (DualSense Edge), extra storage, or a headset, do it before launch day. Don’t be stuck configuring hardware when you could be exploring Vice City.
4. Stay Informed Without Spoiling
Follow trusted news sources and the r/GTA6 community, but set boundaries on spoilers. Rockstar’s marketing is carefully controlled — enjoy the reveals they choose to share.
5. Pre-Order Early
GTA 6 is going to be the biggest game launch of the decade. Pre-order now to guarantee your copy and delivery date.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does GTA 6 come out?
GTA 6 releases on November 19, 2026, on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. The standard edition costs $79.99 and the Ultimate edition is $99.99. No PC release has been announced yet.
Should I replay GTA V before GTA 6?
Absolutely. GTA V Premium Edition is the best preparation — it’s the direct predecessor, features the three-protagonist system that GTA 6 evolves, and costs only ~$20. Replay the story and spend time in GTA Online.
Is Red Dead Redemption 2 worth playing if I only care about GTA?
Yes. RDR2 is made by the exact same studio (Rockstar Games) and showcases the world-building, storytelling, and technology that GTA 6 will build upon. It’s the best preview of GTA 6’s quality bar.
Should I pre-order GTA 6 or wait?
Pre-order now. GTA 6 is going to be the biggest game launch in years, and pre-ordering guarantees launch-day delivery. Pre-order on Amazon for reliable shipping.
What’s the best free thing to do while waiting?
Join r/GTA6 and rewatch the trailers frame by frame. The community is constantly finding new details, and it’s the best way to stay engaged without spending money. Also, listen to GTA radio station playlists on Spotify — they’re free and endlessly entertaining.
Is the DualSense Edge worth it for GTA 6?
If you play PS5 regularly, yes. The DualSense Edge adds customizable back buttons, trigger stops, and swappable sticks — features that matter for long open-world sessions and competitive online play. At ~$199 it’s an investment, but one that improves every game you play.
Final Thoughts
The best way to survive the wait for GTA 6 depends on your budget and playstyle:
- Best overall prep: GTA V Premium Edition — replay the classic that started it all, cheap
- Best Rockstar deep dive: Red Dead Redemption 2 — the studio’s last masterpiece
- Best open-world substitute: Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition — scratch that city-chaos itch
- Best gear upgrade: DualSense Edge Controller — play Vice City like a pro
- Best practical move: GTA 6 Pre-Order — lock in your copy now
- Best stock-up move: GTA Online Shark Cards — get ahead in GTA Online
- Best gift/savings move: PlayStation Store Gift Card — save your budget for launch day
Mix paid content with free activities — rewatch the trailers, join the community, study the maps, and speculate about Jason and Lucia. November 19, 2026 will be here before you know it, and Vice City is waiting.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate as of July 2026 and may change.