Publisher Rockstar has requested GTA 5 pre-orders are not shipped until September 16, causing concerns that games will not arrive in time for the long awaited GTA 5 release date the following day.

A move that will look to stop the game falling into customers’ hands early, the newly confirmed GTA 5 pre-order shipping limitations have caused some gamers to worry that their advanced orders will not hit their doorsteps until after the game is available in shops .

Allowing for no wiggle room in terms of shipping issues, the September 16 shipping restriction of GTA 5 pre-orders has the potential to see many of the most eager gamers miss out on day one playing time and could see games arrive days after release. While we are sure games will be sent with premium delivery to arrive in time, the limited shipping times do pose concerns.

“GTA V is released on 17th September and Rockstar, who publish it, have worked very hard to make it the biggest gaming launch ever,” retailer GAME said in an email sent to those who have already placed GTA 5 pre-orders.

The email added: “They have requested that no UK retailer despatch GTA V before the 16th September and GAME, along with all reputable retailers, will respect this request.”

While there could now be delays affecting the arrival of GTA 5 pre-orders, a selection of UK retailers have already confirmed their intentions to hold midnight openings to let gamers snap up the long awaited title as the clock ticks into the first seconds of Tuesday September 17.

Again keen to discuss its GTA plans, GAME this week revealed it will hold GTA 5 release date midnight openings at hundreds of its stores up and down the country.

“The wait is almost over – Grand Theft Auto V will arrive on 17th September, and GAME Stores throughout the country will be opening at Midnight to let you get your hands on the highly-anticipated game as soon as possible!” an official spokesperson for the retailer has announced.

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Via: Videogamer