The briefing
Use the individual database records alongside this guide to check the relevant edition, prerequisites and completion targets. A location, vehicle or activity can have different conditions in Story Mode and GTA Online.
GTA V’s core loop combines three protagonists, free exploration, missions and separate financial accounts. Heists, property income, robberies and stock trading provide different ways to obtain money; their availability and risks depend on campaign progression and the character involved.
The HUD separates health, armor and the minimap, while the weapon wheel organizes equipment and the wanted system tracks police response. Saving through a safehouse or the phone creates a recovery point before difficult activities or branching decisions. First-person play is an enhanced-edition feature rather than part of the original console release. Treat this guide as an introduction to those systems, then use mission and activity records for exact objectives and prerequisites instead of assuming an interface option is available in every situation.
Maps & reference images
Sources & further reading
Read the game and edition listed in the facts panel before applying gameplay advice. Story outcomes are marked as spoilers. Read our corrections policy.