I returned to GTA 5 one last time before GTA 6 comes out – here’s why Los Santos still surprises me 13 years after release

I recently revisited Grand Theft Auto 5 one last time before the release of GTA 6. The enduring appeal of Los Santos, the game's 13-year-old open-world setting, continues to surprise me. Since its 2013 release, GTA 5 has left an indelible mark on culture and gaming, with remasters and releases across multiple console generations.

Even though GTA 6 is on the horizon, GTA 5 remains a staple in the gaming world, dominating conversation and sales charts on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. As I reloaded GTA 5 on my PlayStation 5 and PS4, I was intrigued to discover how the game had evolved over its ten-year tenure as the forefront of gaming culture. While some aspects, like the game's prologue, show its age, the enhanced visuals and classic San Andreas vistas in the PS5 edition breathe new life into the streets and countryside trails of Los Santos.

The addition of Performance RT, which combines ray-tracing and 60fps, makes the game feel more alive and responsive. Even the character models, while still showing their age, are complemented by improved driving controls, weather effects, and a more immersive experience. Even though my previous experiences with GTA 5 were focused on FPS and on-foot controls, the addition of tactile responses on the DualSense controller added an extra layer of immersion.

As I progressed through the game, I found that its writing had aged well, revealing more grounded undertones that resonated with my current perspective. The game's cinematic elements and storytelling continue to hold up, making it a timeless experience that will likely remain a favorite for gamers of all ages.