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The Tufts Daily
Where you read it first | Friday, March 29, 2024

Video Game Review | Rockstar releases masterpiece with 'Grand Theft Auto V'

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“Grand Theft Auto V” was finally made available to restless and fervent gamers throughout North America on Sept. 17. Releasing the game five years after its predecessor “Grand Theft Auto IV,” video game publisher Rockstar Games has once again revolutionized the definition of a “free roam” game. Building upon the most successful features of its previous titles, “GTA V” has taken another groundbreaking step toward narrowing the gap between simulation and reality. Drenched in satire, “Grand Theft Auto V” remains true to its traditional risque and violent nature, yet now caters to a range of players — from those who want to engage in an adrenaline-pumping police shootout to those who prefer to play a relaxing round of golf in the warm sun.

“Grand Theft Auto V” takes players back to the West Coast and the state of San Andreas. Modeled after Southern California, landmarks such as the Hollywood sign are cleverly depicted throughout the cities in the game. “GTA V” even expands its meticulously constructed map to include the rustic countryside of Blaine County. Now, players have the opportunity to explore this comprehensive state but are still anchored to a unique and riveting plot. Additionally, the creators have seamlessly integrated three main characters into the story: Franklin, Michael and Trevor. Although each has a distinct background, characteristics and goals, they successfully work together to complete heists and other outrageous stunts. This never-before-seen feature of switching between characters mid-mission is incredibly ambitious, yet is ultimately the key to the new version’s success.

A wide array of characters is just one of the many fresh new aspects of “Grand Theft Auto V.” From the innovative underwater world to the incorporation of wildlife into some of the scenes, the game’s virtual world now almost seems limitless. Players are overwhelmed by the extent of customization of characters and vehicles, as well as the myriad of activities in which they can partake. With the ability to go hiking, mountain biking, hunting or scuba diving, get a stylish haircut and play tennis, players are faced with the dilemma of which option to pick. They also have the ability to invest their character’s earnings into the stock market and respond to incoming emails. “Grand Theft Auto V” truly spares no detail, and this helps transform it from an absorbing video game into an actual experience. Many players have attested to the unnerving reality of the game.

“It is scary how realistic this game is,” freshman Daniel Camilletti said. “When you are playing or even watching, you forget that it’s a video game.”

“Grand Theft Auto V” accurately captures the atmosphere of Southern California, not only through the vibrant colors in the game, but also through its heavy use of satirical characters. By implementing witty dialogue throughout the scenes, the game comes to life — players are fully immersed in a world that hyperbolizes American society. In “GTA V,” Facebook is cleverly labeled “Lifeinvader” and a phone carrier dubbed “Tinkle” quips, “A North American mobile phone operator with awful North American mobile phone coverage.” By incorporating a comical aspect in its design, “GTA” heightens the game play experience through laugh out loud moments.

Setting an all-time sales record of $1 billion in just three days, “Grand Theft Auto V” is truly the culmination of Rockstar’s previous games. A flawless design, convincing storyline and remarkable mechanics have made for a fully interactive and dynamic world in “GTA V” that is virtually unprecedented. Through innovative thinking and an emphasis on refined details, the developers of “GTA V” have succeeded in bringing us yet another masterpiece.