A Savetehaloz updated review of the ultimate Grand Theft Auto game.
Having played through GTA IV, GTA San Andreas still holds its own ground as the pinnacle of the series. GTA San Andreas is just as solid and fun as it was 6 years ago. I had to re-review San Andreas as many of the changes that I had once criticized actually worked for the game's benefit. So without further ado, here is the re-review.
GAMEPLAY: San Andreas's gameplay builds on its predecessors by improving and streamlining the open world action formula. The game environment is massive, spanning an entire state instead of a single city like in GTA 3 or Vice City. Like its predecessors, the player must complete story missions to unlock different cities within in the state. The activities in San Andreas are vast, players can play minigames on various gaming consoles, pool tables or arcade machines scattered throughout the world. With the inclusion of Las Venturas, Rockstar's take on real world Las Vegas, the player can engage in gambling games such as poker, blackjack, roulette and much more. All of these features come together to enriching the in game world. Rockstar has included RPG elements; such as allowing the player to gain or lose weight and muscle and eat. Use of specific weapons and constant activity such as running and swimming improve the in game character's skill and stamina. The player is also allowed to have girlfriends - activities such as eating, dancing and driving serve as dates which result in sex. What differentiates San Andreas from its predecessors however is the customization available for characters and cars. The player can purchase clothes, tattoos, jewelry and car upgrades which have an affect on gameplay. There is a wide variety of weapons that the players can use.
STORY: The story is varied and can be considered wacky. CJ, the protagonist interacts with a variety of memorable characters and organizations. The story however is a mix-mash, with the ultimate goal of re-establishing his neighborhood gang.
GRAPHICS: The graphics are slightly dated for 2004, but are an improvement over GTA 3 and Vice City. The engines in all 3 games are the same. Character modeling and weapons could all be improved, but the game's scope ultimately makes up for this.
SOUND: The sounds are an improvement over the last GTAs. The game's writing and voice cast is spectacular, with witty bits of dialogue that makes the story more memorable. The soundtrack is great; characterizing how radio and music was in the 90s. Gangster rap and R&B serve to deliver the California/Los Angeles feel that San Andreas uses.
LASTING IMPACT: With the thousands of mods that add to or improve gameplay and graphics, San Andreas will last you beyond what the game delivers.
Pros: Huge free-roaming environments, fun gameplay, tons of weapons, player customizing options, 3rd party modifications, huge scope of game
Cons: Dated Graphics