Get your PS5 or Xbox ready for GTA 6: storage, cooling and settings checklist

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GTA 6 is a huge download and you'll probably play for hours at a time. A few minutes of preparation now avoids launch-night headaches.

1. Free up plenty of storage

GTA 6 needs a lot of space on your internal SSD, and current-gen games can't run from a USB hard drive.
Delete games you've finished. You can redownload them later.
On PS5, a compatible M.2 SSD expands fast storage. On Xbox Series X|S, the official expansion card does the same.

Install any pending system updates before launch day, so a forced update doesn't hold you up when the game unlocks.

PS5: in Settings → System → Power Saving, allow internet connection in rest mode so downloads and patches finish while the console sleeps.
Xbox: choose the sleep (instant-on) power option so updates install in the background.

Long sessions mean heat. Keep your console cool:

Leave at least 10 cm (4 in) of space around the vents.
Don't put it in a closed cabinet, on carpet or against a wall.
Dust the vents with a soft brush or low-pressure air. PS5 owners can also clear dust from the dust catchers following Sony's guide.
Standing or lying flat both work. Use the official stand or feet so airflow isn't blocked.

Make sure your TV is in Game Mode to cut input lag.
If your TV supports HDR, run the console's HDR calibration once so highlights and shadows look right.
Use the HDMI cable that came with your console for full bandwidth.

Simple, but it's the most common way launch night gets interrupted. Keep a charging cable within reach.

Mute keywords like "GTA 6 ending" on social media and turn off YouTube recommendations for a few days if you want to go in fresh.

Planning to stream or record your playthrough? Get your overlays and thumbnails ready before launch.