GTA 6 review embargo time leaks, with some sites restricted until release date

Earlier GTA 6 leaks claimed the review embargo would expire in advance of the November 19th release date. The media reportedly can also expect copies of the Rockstar title before the end of October. Now, a poster with a history of accurate predictions has shared when Metacritic scores will surface.

While ResetEra contributor BlackBate isn’t well known, they have gradually built a reliable track record. Starting in 2021, the forum member revealed announcements for Microsoft Flight Simulator, Death Stranding, Pragmata, and Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced.

Times to watch

On October 23rd, BlackBate identified November 18th as when the GTA 6 review embargo will end. More specifically, Metacritic scores should go live at around 12:01-1:01 PM CET/6-7 AM EST. However, certain sites or YouTube channels may need to wait until 6:01 CET/12:01 AM EST on the November 19th launch day.

It’s unclear why some media members would have to delay their coverage until the GTA 6 release date. One theory is that Rockstar prefers written articles to appear first to establish a critical consensus. Then, videos, which may contain story spoilers, can show footage as it unlocks on the Xbox and PlayStation Store. Or the studio may simply prioritize journalists from larger publications.

With time running out, BlackBate also suspects fans won’t see hands-on previews. So far, content creators have been invited to watch gameplay but not control Jason and Lucia themselves.

Leaks may be inevitable

Trusted insider NateTheHate leaked that Rockstar should soon distribute copies to the media. The ResetEra poster believes the studio hasn't dispatched the digital Xbox or PS5 codes. Their sources suggest that will happen either the week of October 26th or early in November. Testers could have anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks to explore Leonida's open world.

As with all leaks, followers should take the GTA 6 review embargo details with a grain of salt. Nevertheless, the claims are consistent with Grand Theft Auto 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2. In both cases, critical opinions emerged a day before launch.