This action-adventure game invites players to the sprawling metropolis of Los Santos and the surrounding Blaine County. The narrative follows three distinct protagonists, each with their own motivations and criminal enterprises, whose lives intertwine as they navigate a world of heists, ambition, and survival. The game offers a vast open world filled with opportunities for exploration, engaging in various activities, and interacting with a dynamic environment.

The Special Edition of this title provides a comprehensive package for players. It includes a full retail copy of the main game, presented in a collectible SteelBook case featuring exclusive artwork. A detailed blueprint map of Los Santos and Blaine County is also included, offering a unique perspective on the game's world. For those who enjoy character-specific advantages, the Special Edition grants a boost to each protagonist's special ability, allowing their unique skills to recharge 25% faster. Additional content includes single-player Stunt Plane Trials, offering aerial challenges, and bonus cosmetic items such as outfits and tattoos for the main characters. Furthermore, players will find exclusive weapons available for free at in-game Ammu-Nation stores, including the Pistol .50, Bullpup Shotgun, and a melee Hammer.

Core Gameplay and Features

The gameplay loop centers around completing missions, engaging in criminal activities, and exploring the expansive open world. Players can switch between the three protagonists at will, each offering a different perspective and skillset. The game incorporates driving, shooting, and stealth mechanics, allowing for diverse approaches to challenges. The world is populated with non-player characters and dynamic events, contributing to a living, breathing environment.

What Makes This Game Unique?

A key distinguishing feature is the ability to control three separate protagonists, each with their own storylines and abilities that converge throughout the game. This multi-character narrative structure allows for varied gameplay experiences and strategic depth. The sheer scale and detail of the open world, coupled with the freedom it offers players to pursue various activities beyond the main storyline, contribute significantly to its unique appeal.

Special Edition Content

The Special Edition enhances the core experience with several exclusive items. These include:

A collectible SteelBook with custom artwork.
A 21.5” x 26.75” blueprint map of Los Santos and Blaine County.
A special ability boost for Michael, Franklin, and Trevor, increasing their special ability recharge rate by 25%.
Additional single-player Stunt Plane Trials.
Bonus outfits, tattoos, and in-game shop discounts for the protagonists.
Exclusive weapons: Pistol .50, Bullpup Shotgun, and the Hammer melee weapon, available for free at Ammu-Nation.

Technical Considerations

Released on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the game was designed to leverage the processing power of the then-current generation of consoles. Due to the game's extensive detail and scope, an installation process was required for the Xbox 360 version, utilizing two discs: one for a mandatory one-time install and the second for gameplay. This installation required a hard drive or a compatible USB flash drive with sufficient free space.

Additional Content Availability

As of the current date, there are no downloadable content (DLC) packs, expansions, remakes, or remasters officially listed for this specific Special Edition release.

Game Details

This title is categorized as a main game, offering a complete and standalone experience. It was initially released on September 17, 2013, for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 platforms. The genres represented include Shooter, Racing, and Sport, reflecting the diverse gameplay mechanics available.