Review: GTA V (PS4)

Rockstar’s GTA V was last year’s mega-hit. Now, it’s available in a remastered version for next-gen consoles, offering more than just a resolution bump.

Approximately a year ago, Rockstar Games launched GTA V, achieving phenomenal sales on PS3 and Xbox 360. We previously covered the game in detail. This review will explore whether the upgrade to the PS4 or Xbox One version is worthwhile.

The game was already a technical achievement upon its initial release. Visually, the enhancements are subtle but noticeable. The 1080p resolution is welcome, and the improved lighting effects, particularly during sunsets, are impressive. However, character and face models retain a similar level of detail to the original. While still good, they don’t quite reach the standards of current-generation titles. Due to the increased density of objects, including higher traffic volume, more dynamic weather, and other environmental details, the game is capped at 30 fps. This is acceptable, but 60 fps would have significantly enhanced the experience. The most significant addition is the all-new first-person mode, which fundamentally transforms the gameplay. Shooting mechanics gain a new level of immersion, reminiscent of FPS titles like Call of Duty and Halo, though lacking their precision. The result is a distinctive sandbox experience, offering near-total freedom – from assisting allies to engaging in street brawls, car theft, and confrontations with law enforcement, as well as activities at strip clubs (including first-person perspective interactions, which have led to the game being removed from shelves by some retailers in Australia following protests). This first-person perspective adds considerable depth, permeating every aspect of the game should you choose to use it (seamlessly switchable via the PS4’s touchpad). It’s a remarkably diverse FPS experience, allowing players to focus on the elements they enjoy most.

GTA V offers a wealth of content. Beyond the main storyline missions, players can explore numerous side missions and optional features, such as customizing hairstyles, upgrading weapons, and acquiring new clothing. For those who complete all of this, the expansive online mode offers further replayability. Players can transfer their saved characters from previous-generation versions, though the process on PlayStation requires using the same PSN account used on the PS3. The online mode operates smoothly on the PS4, providing a significantly improved experience compared to its previous iteration.

Otherwise, the core experience remains largely consistent with the original release. The sound design is well-executed, the voice acting is excellent, and the script maintains its quality within the established genre. The game presents a romanticized portrayal of gangster life, delivered with a degree of self-awareness. Your enjoyment will depend on your tolerance for this.

It’s important to acknowledge that GTA V is an open-world game that allows players to explore morally questionable aspects of human behavior. You control three characters, each deeply involved in criminal activity, and have the freedom to engage in activities such as marijuana use, alcohol consumption, gun violence, and sexual interactions. Players uncomfortable with such themes should avoid this title. The game carries an 18+ age rating and is intended for mature audiences. Parents who permit their children to play do so at their own discretion, as the content is not designed or suitable for younger audiences, similar to how alcohol or adult films are not.

GTA V on PS4/Xbox One is a remarkable achievement, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay filled with intricate details. While its themes may not appeal to everyone, and it doesn’t necessarily break new ground in narrative conventions, it remains an exceptionally well-crafted and engaging experience. Rockstar’s substantial resources and ambitious vision have set a high standard for future sandbox games. The addition of a first-person perspective on next-gen consoles significantly enhances the game, making it well worth revisiting from a new point of view.