Understanding the Differences Between GTA 6 Standard and Ultimate Editions

GTA 6 has unveiled its pre-order editions, and while there are plenty of flashy customization options and a fairly standard price for the base edition, many fans are understandably frustrated about the significant amount of content—integral to the GTA experience—that is locked behind a paywall.

For us PC gamers, the decision to buy is a bit more complex, especially since we might catch a sale down the line. However, it’s important to note that since this game is entirely digital, Rockstar is likely to keep the price elevated for an extended period. Below, I’ll break down the key differences between the Standard and Ultimate Editions to help you decide which one is worth your investment.

The most affordable option for GTA 6 is still $10 above the typical price for other major game launches, and it lacks many of the cosmetic and customization features found in the Ultimate Edition. This is particularly disappointing, considering that the journey from rags to riches and spending your hard-earned cash on upgrading your home, wardrobe, and vehicles is a core aspect of the GTA series.

Both editions come with a month of GTA+. While the future of GTA Online remains uncertain, it’s almost a given that Rockstar will introduce a GTA 6 Online variant.

Pre-ordering also grants access to the Vintage Vice City pack, which is a small consolation for PC players who might miss out unless it’s included in a future complete edition. This cosmetic pack features:

While it’s a minor addition compared to the extensive customization options you’ll miss out on without the Ultimate Edition, it seems designed to soften the blow of what feels like cut content being held back for an upgrade. Expect this pack to be available for purchase post-launch as well.

The Ultimate Edition unlocks everything in GTA 6, giving you access to all customization features across Vice City. The frustrating part is that it includes activities and vendors for customizing your vehicles and characters that won’t be available in the Standard Edition.

Take the “Classic Car Collection,” for instance, where you’ll “track down a variety of abandoned classic and work-in-progress project cars and revitalize them.” This sounds like a mini-questline that Standard Edition players will miss out on. Additionally, vehicle customization, salons, tattoo parlors, and clothing shops are exclusive to the Ultimate Edition, which is a letdown. Here’s what’s included:

As you can see, the $20 upgrade unlocks a wealth of content. Should much of this have been part of the base game? Absolutely. All I can suggest is to make your purchase decision wisely—or consider skipping it altogether.