Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition is available physically in most editions, but there are some notable exclusions, namely the PS5. Fans hoping to experience the Grand Theft Auto remasters on PS5 through upgrading the PS4 version should just wait as there is currently no upgrade.
Despite its console being close power-wise, Xbox has generally more consumer-friendly features than PlayStation, particularly when it comes to their game libraries. Through Xbox Smart Delivery, depending on what console players are using, the game will recognize the hardware and return the proper version at no additional charge to the player. PlayStation conversely has had a hard time articulating its upgrade paths, with some games having free or purchaseable PS5 upgrades, but there being no standard across the console. For example, PlayStation just allowed PS Plus members who downloaded Final Fantasy 7 Remake access to the PS5 upgrade, something previously off-limits to them.
Originally covered by Screen Rant, those who purchase GTA: The Trilogy physically on PS4 do not get an upgrade of any kind to the PS5 version, and fans are not happy about it. Ben Turpin, a Rockstar Games informant, discusses the issue in a thread on Twitter, warning potential buyers of the PS4's upgrade restrictions. "Everyone can finally buy a physical version of GTA Trilogy in most retail stores – but there’s a catch. You can’t upgrade to the PS5 version if you decide to pickup the physical version," Turpin writes. In prior statements, it was unclear whether GTA: The Trilogy would receive a physical release on PS5.
Fans have been wondering whether this decision was intentional or if it was just a glitch, with one reaching out to Rockstar Support directly. Twitter user Wes Fido shared their conversation with a Rockstar Support agent where they ask if the lack of an upgrade is a bug, to which the agent answers, "No this is not a bug, this is working as intended." Users who purchase The Trilogy physically get access to the Xbox One and Xbox Series X versions of the game through Xbox Smart Delivery, propelling concerns over the lack of a PS5 upgrade when buying the PS4 version physically.
Perhaps, the most confusing thing about this situation, though, is that digital PS4 owners of GTA: The Trilogy can upgrade to the PS5 version without any problems. Why, then, the same process can't be offered to physical owners remains to be seen, and hopefully an update from Rockstar Games will address this issue. PlayStation had to reverse its stance on Horizon Forbidden West's upgrade path after announcing to fans PS4 players would have to pay to upgrade when it was originally said to be free.
Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S with mobile ports coming in 2022.
Source: Screen Rant