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Grand Theft Auto V became available to pre-order on the PlayStation Network this weekend, but a gaffe has left Sony in hot water.
Sony Europe differs from Sony America in that it allows pre-ordered games to be pre-loaded onto a user’s machine – much like users of PC service Steam are accustomed to.
However, it looks like the pre-load switch for GTA V was flipped too early. Early pre-order customers in Europe were able to download all 18GB of the game straight away, although they were unable to play the game.
And some nosey swine saw fit to have a root around the files, leaking the information online.
Rumours that a playable version of the title has been made available are untrue. But track lists, TV shows and assorted other details and content have now been leaked.
Sony has now suspended pre-loading in Europe. Customers who buy the game now are being told that they will be able to pre-load the title from September 13th, a week ahead of GTA V’s September 17th arrival.
Regrettably, some people who downloaded the digital pre-order of Grand Theft Auto V through the PlayStation Store in Europe were able to access certain GTA V assets. These assets were posted online,” a Sony statement said.
We have since removed the digital pre-order file from the PlayStation Store in Europe. We sincerely apologize to Rockstar and GTA fans across the world who were exposed to the spoiler content. GTA V is one of the most highly anticipated games of the year with a very passionate following, and we’re looking forward to a historic launch on September 17th.”
Joystiq has a statement attributed to Rockstar that reads: [We are] deeply disappointed by leaks and spoilers being spread in advance of the game’s launch. GTA5 represents years of hard work by many people across the world, and we all couldn’t be more excited to finally share it with you properly this September 17th."
