We have all seen companies offer time off for major game launches, but it is not every day that the US Army dangles a 'four-day GTA 6 leave' to entice soldiers into extending their service.

According to reports from CBS and other US media outlets, that viral social media rumor about the 'GTA 6 leave' is indeed true. Specifically, the commander of the 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, is offering a four-day pass timed with the release of GTA 6 for any soldiers willing to extend their enlistment.

Lieutenant Colonel Angel Tomko stated that the project's goal was to 'develop unique incentive programs that connect with the interests of our soldiers.' Angel Tomko further noted that the command team worked alongside career counselors to encourage re-enlistments. As of August 17, 20 out of 130 eligible personnel have signed on for the GTA 6 leave, committing to extensions ranging from two to six years.

Using gaming as a recruitment tool is hardly a new tactic for the US Army. After falling short of recruitment targets in October 2018, the military began sending recruiters to gaming events and even formed esports teams around titles like Call of Duty and Fortnite. This GTA 6 initiative is simply the latest chapter in that ongoing strategy.

Meanwhile, GTA 6, arguably the most anticipated title of the year, is set to launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S on November 19. Set in Leonida—a fictional state inspired by Miami—the game follows the journey of Lucia and Jason. Players can enjoy a sprawling map filled with activities like parties and heists, along with content reflecting modern trends, such as social media missions. A detailed feature on GTA 6 will be aired on Netflix on the 28th.