GTA San Andreas: discover all versions of the game and their differences

When talking about a Grand Theft Auto – that marked a generation -, the first name that comes to mind for many is GTA San Andreas. And indeed, the title that introduced CJ to the world was so important that it appeared on multiple platforms.

Because it spans more than one generation, a question that may arise in many people’s minds is: there are big differences between all the available versions of GTA San Andreas? This is exactly what we will talk about in the following lines. Stay tuned!

What are the versions of GTA San Andreas?

Since its launch, GTA San Andreas has already been through more than 10 different platforms. Below we present what changes between them. Check it out:

GTA San Andreas

• Platforms: PlayStation 2, Xbox e PC

This was the version that started it all. GTA San Andreas, released in 2004 for PlayStation 2 and in 2005 for Xbox and PC, introduced the world to the journey of Carl Johnson, popularly known as CJ.

In the game, we see the protagonist returning to Los Santos, in San Andreas, in the early 90s and dealing with several problems. In addition to the fact that his mother was murdered, his childhood friends are completely lost in life. Things only get worse when we see that the city police accuse CJ of murder.

The original GTA San Andreas turns 20 in 2024. (Source: Rockstar Games/Disclosure)Source: Rockstar Games/Disclosure

O GTA San Andreas The original was popular not only for its open world options. It also offers the option to explore Los Santos on foot or using different vehicles, as well as several missions involving shooting and driving.

Another important point is that This was the first title in the franchise to feature RPG elements. Here, you can improve some of CJ’s attributes, and even customize the character with different clothes.

Because of all this, San Andreas became the best-selling game of 2004 on the PlayStation 2, selling over 27.5 million units.

GTA San Andreas (Mobile Version)

• Platforms: Android e iOS

This version was released in 2013, bringing some differences compared to the original title. The first of these, obviously, is the issue of controls adapted for the touch screen.

Added to this, this GTA San Andreas offers the chance to immediately start a failed mission, better character resolutions and texture fixes. The menus also received a new treatment, and even texture glitches in the original title were fixed.

On mobile, San Andreas has controls directly on the touch screen. (Source: Android Shock/Reproduction)Source: Android Shock/Reproduction

Finally, GTA San Andreas for mobile devices also features more cars parked on the streets of Los Santos. Sure, it’s a purely cosmetic change, but it already sets it apart from the original version.

GTA San Andreas: The Definitive Edition

• Platforms: PC, Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android e iOS

Finally, GTA San Andreas: The Definitive Edition is part of the Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition package. It arrived in 2021 on consoles and PC, and in 2023 for Android and iOS.

This edition brings several significant changes, such as improvements to the minimap, weapon selection, and improved radio stations. Also included in the package is the option to earn Accomplishments through the Rockstar Games Social Club.

The Definitive Edition is the latest edition to hit consoles. (Source: Rockstar Games/Disclosure)Source: Rockstar Games/Disclosure

For new generation platforms, we have 4K resolution and 60 FPS in the versions for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, as well as NVIDIA DLSS on PC. On Switch, players can take advantage of the touchscreen camera zoom and use the gyroscope to aim during action moments.

For you, which of these is the best version of GTA San Andreas? Share your opinion with other Voxel readers on our social networks, and take the opportunity to read about why Rockstar takes so long to release its games. See you next time!