As packages began arriving at doorsteps across the country, disappointed buyers took to social media to share the harsh reality. The physical boxes they received prominently displayed the same "Download required. See back" warning from 2021. The only difference buyers could identify was that the cartridges appeared to be newly manufactured, but the actual content remained unchanged.
The situation became even more confusing when European listings surfaced showing yet another version of the cover art, this time featuring an even more alarming banner: "Download Code Only. No game card is included!"
Shortly after word got around that the re-release wasn't all that it was cracked up to be, Amazon quietly updated their product listing to reflect the accurate cover art, but by then, the damage was done. Hundreds of customers had already received their orders, expecting a complete collection but getting the same incomplete product they could have purchased years ago.
For collectors and fans who value complete physical releases, the practice of requiring additional downloads for content that could fit on a cartridge remains a pain point. This incident also raises questions about quality control in online retail listings and who bears responsibility when incorrect information leads to purchases. While Amazon has corrected their listing, many no doubt will feel deceived by the false advertising, even if unintentional.
For what it's worth, this is outside of Rockstar's hands. Rockstar has done wonders to fix GTA Trilogy after its initially messy release four years ago. Video Games Deluxe, which Rockstar later acquired and renamed to Rockstar Australia, stepped in to give Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, justice. The fact that it took over publishing duties and cut the price by half is more than enough already. This is on Amazon to fix.
Unfortunately, while Amazon has since corrected their listing, this incident raises questions about who bears responsibility when incorrect information leads to purchases, even if unintentional.
Speaking of re-releases, Rockstar is reportedly working on a new release of Grand Theft Auto IV, which could be one of the projects set to come out between now and the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6 on May 26, 2026.
