Is there a free GTA 5 next-gen upgrade option?

After a long wait that included delays, the time is finally here for the next big drop in the long-running GTA franchise. Next-gen console users have surely been counting down the days to this as GTA 5 will finally enter the new era of gaming.

Initially scheduled to release in November of 2021, complications pushed the next-gen release back over a year, but the time has finally come. Beginning 15th March, players will be able to jump into a refreshed world of Grand Theft Auto as GTA V next-gen will be available on PS5 and Xbox Series X platforms.

The new release will require a separate download, with file sizes varying between consoles, leaving many players to ask the question. Is there a free GTA 5 next-gen upgrade option?

GTA 5 is there a free next-gen upgrade?

While the next-gen version is not quite yet available, there is currently a pre-load period for players who want to get their hands on the title the minute it goes live. Download specifications will be different for Xbox Series X|S vs. PlayStation 5, so follow along for details.

• Is there a free GTA 5 next-gen upgrade option?
• How to play GTA V next-gen for free
• Rockstar confirms 'active development' of GTA 6
• How to pre-load GTA 5 - PS5 and Xbox Series X file size

GTA 5 next-gen is available via two separate downloads for players who have different interests. GTA V next-gen (including single-player and GTA Online) is one option, and GTA Online can be downloaded as a standalone title as well.

GTA 5 next-gen upgrade Xbox Series X|S

For Xbox Series X|S players, GTA V (single-player story mode and GTA Online) will be available at a 50% off discount ($19.99 USD / £17.49) for the first three months post-launch. GTA Online (just the online multiplayer portion) will also be available as a standalone purchase for $9.99 USD / £8.99 for the first three months, which is also 50% off. After three months, prices will revert to full so be sure to act quick.

GTA 5 next-gen upgrade PlayStation 5

PlayStation 5 users can purchase GTA V (single-player story mode and GTA Online) at 75% off for the first three months, costing only $9.99 USD / £8.75. There is also a standalone GTA Online option that will be completely free of cost for the first three months but will eventually cost $19.99 USD / £17.99.

Players can also transfer their GTA V progress to Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 platforms so they don't have to start over in the next-gen version.

If you enjoyed this story, then you'll love the rest of our GTA coverage, including game news and updates, as well as info about popular GTA streamers. Be sure to check out our dedicated GTA section for more.

Featured image courtesy of Rockstar Games.