Some international GTA VI physical copies reportedly show their download code through the box

Less than a week before the release of the video game Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI), developed and published by Rockstar Games, posts on ResetEra and X have raised a possible problem with its retail edition. According to the reports, the download code can be read without opening the box if a strong enough flashlight is shone at it from the side.

The code is reportedly visible because it is not on a paper insert or under a scratch-off layer, but printed on the inside cover of the box. Only a few photos of codes lit up through the side of the box are circulating so far, so it is unclear whether the issue is widespread.

Possibly limited to international copies

The author of the ResetEra post says the problem may affect only international copies. The US box reportedly has a backing that hides the code from the outside.

Tech outlet Engadget has asked the publisher, Take-Two, for comment and whether it knows of any problems with GTA VI boxes. It says it will update its article if it receives a reply.

Why it matters

If many copies are affected, it could be a serious problem for people trying to buy the physical version. Downloading GTA VI requires only a code, a console and an internet connection. If the code can be obtained without buying or opening the box, someone could end up buying a copy that has already been redeemed.

Engadget links this to how Take-Two and Rockstar Games define a "physical" game. Traditional physical releases include a disc or cartridge that works as a key to play and can be passed to another person. Rockstar's physical GTA VI release is just another way of buying the digital version, and because of how digital licences work, it is not really something a buyer owns. If the issue affects a large number of copies, it could also leave buyers with a game they cannot play.