U.S. army unit offers re-enlistment bonus: 4 days off to play Grand Theft Auto

The 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, is offering a special incentive to its troops as they prepare to reenlist: an extra four days off to coincide with the November release of Grand Theft Auto VI. Battalion commanders believe that the opportunity to play the video game, which features carjackings, shootouts, and heists, will encourage some soldiers to extend their military service.

Grand Theft Auto VI is expected to be one of the biggest entertainment events of the year, with pre-orders generating "unprecedented and astonishing" sales according to Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick. Battalion commanders came up with the idea, which they think will serve as a unique retention perk tied to the game's release.

Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Ryan Hodgson wrote in a memo that those who sign reenlistment contracts by November 14 will receive a special four-day pass. At least 20 out of 130 eligible soldiers have signed up for the bonus, with at least two more years of service required to qualify. Buzz for Grand Theft Auto VI has been building since 2023, with the release of its first trailer and an upcoming extended trailer on Netflix.

The game's hype was further boosted when hackers leaked footage online, although it has since been addressed.