Microsoft disputes a widely circulated report that PlayStation 5 pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto VI are outpacing Xbox by a large margin. The claim traces back to third-party information reported from IGN that allegedly analyzed user and affiliate-link activity from its own audience, which the outlet said suggested PS5 demand beating Xbox by roughly “8-to-1” (and other ratios reported around 6-to-1). Microsoft says the figures do not represent genuine pre-order data and urges people to rely on verifiable sales information. According to Microsoft, it has “record orders” across the Xbox ecosystem and argues that click-based affiliate figures are not the same as completed pre-orders.
Other coverage also notes that GTA VI is not a PlayStation exclusive, and that any apparent difference in pre-order traction may be influenced by factors such as platform install base and marketing. Retailers and industry observers cited in the broader reporting also raise expectations of high demand ahead of the holiday season, though sources agree that the most authoritative numbers would come from official publishers or platforms. GTA VI is scheduled to launch on November 19.
