US Army Offers GTA 6 Release as a Reenlistment Bonus
Everyone is gearing up for the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6 in their own unique ways. Some are planning to take vacation days, while others are likely crafting elaborate excuses for a sudden illness on November 19. After a long 13-year wait for a new mainline entry in the series, many fans are making sure they have time set aside to dive into Vice City.
For some soldiers in the U.S. Army, there’s an unconventional way to secure a few uninterrupted days with the game right after its release. The catch? They need to commit to at least two more years of service first.
In an unusual blend of military recruitment and gaming excitement, an Army battalion at Fort Stewart, Georgia, is offering eligible soldiers a special four-day pass that coincides with the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6 if they choose to reenlist.
Two more years in uniform for four days of gaming—what a deal!
This offer comes from the 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, part of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division. Soldiers who sign a reenlistment contract between August 1 and November 14 can qualify for this pass, as confirmed by an internal memo that has been verified by Army officials.
Lt. Col. Angel Tomko, a spokesperson for the 3rd Infantry Division, mentioned that as of Wednesday, 20 out of 120 eligible soldiers had opted for this incentive. “The idea was to create a unique incentives program that resonates with what soldiers are interested in,” Tomko explained. This offer is specific to the 3rd Infantry Division and not available Army-wide.
Tomko noted that the concept originated from a new career counselor looking for innovative ways to help the unit achieve its reenlistment goals for fiscal 2027.
It’s worth mentioning that unconventional perks for reenlistment aren’t entirely new. Army officials have pointed out that soldiers have previously reenlisted during events featuring tanks, helicopters, NFL teams, and picturesque locations. The military often employs various incentives, including cash bonuses, educational opportunities, and preferred assignments, to encourage retention.
As the launch approaches, Rockstar has turned the final stretch into an event of its own. On August 27, Netflix will host a six-hour exclusive preview of Grand Theft Auto 6 before the footage becomes available on YouTube and other social media platforms.
Meanwhile, the game has also been the target of a new wave of leaks. A hacker known as Cyberleek has shared alleged gameplay footage showcasing everything from aerial views of Vice City to intense action sequences, threatening to continue leaking content in protest of the game’s digital-only release.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to launch on November 19, with the standard edition priced at $79.99. The Army’s reenlistment offer remains open to eligible soldiers until November 14.