Xbox Game Pass is the gift that keeps on giving. Not only did the November release include Forza Horizon 5, it included Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition. Now this was a title that was released way back in 2004 on the Sony PlayStation 2. The funny thing was, I really didn’t take to the game and that’s maybe due to the amazing snowboarding game, SSX 3. And while lauded as a critical hit, San Andreas was one really ugly looking title at that time.
In any case, the Definitive Edition’s enhancements include (and I quote) new lighting and environmental upgrades, high-res textures and increased draw distance and GTA V-style controls. Running the game on the Xbox Series S, I’m not sure whether does the “Definitive Edition”-bit apply any form of Korean plastic surgery as the game still looks really…. ugly.
Those familiar with San Andreas will note that they can start off on a bicycle to get to their first objective. But hey, being a cyclist, I’m the type to just get on the bike and ride off into the sunset, which was exactly what I did with hilarious results.
You have to note that I’ve never really played the game on the PS2 (other than starting up), so how was I supposed to know that certain parts of the game map are cordoned off until you’ve completed certain story missions. After getting fed up with one blocked bridge after another, I decided to get my boy CJ to jump into a river and swim to the other side.
That did the trick but as I was about to hunt for another bike (ergo beat someone up for one), CJ was totally swarmed by 5-O and gunned down with extreme prejudice. A quick look-up on Google revealed this to be default game behaviour if you try to get into locked areas.
So what did I get from the cycling sojourn through San Andreas? For starters, I spent 24 hours (in-game) without breaking the law, being wanted, killing or harming anyone and obtained an Achievement for that! It’s called “Today Was a Good Day” for those of you who are curious.
Next, CJ has gotten pretty buff and has increase stats for cycling and stamina. San Andreas was the first game in the GTA series to introduce RPG-lite stats and the ability to train to improve those stats. It’s a shame that there’s no road bike to obtain in the game. One can only dream.
Speaking about dreams, don’t forget to get started on Christmas shopping considering how hard it is to get stuff. Play-Asia has the Nintendo Switch in stock (including the Gen 2, the new OLED model as well as the Lite), check out their listing over here. Amazon on the other hand has the Xbox Series S. I personally own one and its awesome. Check out the listing over here. The Sony PS5 is being super elusive, but I recommend checking out your local Facebook Marketplace listings, who knows you might be able to get a secondhand unit just in time for some Yuletide cheer.
