A vintage Xbox 360 development kit containing an early build of Grand Theft Auto 4 has been removed from the internet following what appears to be a DMCA takedown notice, cutting short a window during which gaming fans had begun analyzing the prototype.
The device surfaced at a Scottish flea market, where a buyer identified only as Jan purchased what he initially thought was simply an older Xbox 360 console. The realization of what he actually owned came only after returning home. The 2007 build, though partially wiped, yielded enough recoverable files for enthusiasts to extract beta versions of character models, weapons, vehicles, maps, and other assets—revealing differences between the prototype and the final retail release.
Someone uploaded the build online, prompting rapid community investigation into the cut content and developmental changes. The takedown notice now appears on the original download page, stating: "This item is no longer available. Items may be taken down for various reasons, including by decision of the uploader or due to a violation of our Terms of Use." The notice does not identify who filed the request, though Rockstar Games or its parent company Take-Two Interactive are presumed responsible.
Related images and videos from the beta remain accessible online, and the dev kit's owner has not yet sold the physical hardware. The original uploader reportedly received no advance notification before the removal.
Gaming researchers expressed frustration with the action. One community member noted that studying cut content and the evolution of games through development stages offers valuable insight into the creative process—something Rockstar historically keeps private. "We don't get behind the scenes at all," the commenter observed.
The takedown arrives as the industry anticipates GTA 6's launch later this year. Rockstar has set a release date of November 19, 2026, with Take-Two Interactive boss Strauss Zelnick confirming that marketing efforts will begin this summer. Questions remain about pricing, with speculation that the title could cost as much as $100, though nothing has been officially confirmed. Zelnick recently denied persistent rumors that the game will be digital-only at launch, confirming a physical release will accompany the digital version.
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