Amazon typically sends copies of pre-ordered video games ahead of their launch date in order to ensure customers have the package to open on the day of release. This is its way of ensuring that it is just as viable an option as going straight to a GameStop or other retailer to purchase the game physically on the day of.
The company sent out early releases for the highly anticipated upcoming title "Grand Theft Auto V." Unfortunately several of the packages arrived as early as Saturday, which clearly violates a specific request by Rockstar Games, the game's developer, to not ship ahead of the official release date. The studio has since expressed its concerns toward Amazon.
In a statement provided to Games Industry, the developer said: "We are in the process of investigating early 'sales' to determine how and why that is occurring."
Early releases are a common thing in the gaming industry. However, the problem gets worse with time as social media makes it easier for those who received the pre-release title to share spoiler content online.
IGN points out that several retailer outlets have received their copies on Sautrday as well but were provided with strict instructions not to begin selling the game before tomorrow. With the "street date" embargo already broken by Amazon, it's possible some of these retailers might abandon the notion of following these restrictions from Rockstar Games, however, that seems relatively unlikely.
"Grand Theft Auto V" is due for its official launch on Sept. 17. The new title will feature a three-character storyline in the fictional city of Los Santos, a parody of California. Rockstar Games promises this will be one of the biggest "Grand Theft Auto" games in the franchise. It is available on PS3, Xbox 360 and soon Xbox One and PS4.
