Since 2021, players have had two real ways to experience GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas: the original releases, or the remastered Definitive Edition. Here’s exactly how they differ.
Visual Differences
The Definitive Edition rebuilds all three games with updated lighting, textures, and character models, aiming for a more modern look while preserving the original level layouts and mission structures. The originals retain their period-accurate low-poly aesthetic, which some players specifically prefer for authenticity.
Control Scheme Changes
One of the more significant changes: the Definitive Edition modernizes the control scheme to feel closer to GTA V’s, including improved aiming and movement, a notable quality-of-life upgrade over the originals’ more dated, stiffer controls.
Availability on Current-Gen Xbox
This is a practical dealbreaker for many players: the Definitive Edition runs natively on Xbox Series S/X, while playing the true originals on current-gen Xbox requires backward compatibility with older Xbox 360-era releases — see our San Andreas backward compatibility guide for how that works.
The Rocky 2021 Launch
The Definitive Edition’s initial release faced significant criticism for visual glitches, bugs, and technical issues that undermined the remaster’s reception at launch. Rockstar has released multiple patches since, significantly improving stability — but it’s worth checking recent reviews if visual polish is a priority for you before buying. See our dedicated Trilogy Definitive Edition guide for more on the current state of the games.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose the Definitive Edition if: you want modern controls, native current-gen Xbox support, and don’t mind departing slightly from the original 2000s-era visual style
- Choose the originals if: you specifically want the authentic period visuals and don’t mind navigating backward compatibility to play them
Quick Facts Recap
- Definitive Edition released: November 2021
- Includes: GTA III, Vice City, San Andreas (remastered)
- Native Xbox Series X|S support: Definitive Edition only
- Launch reception: Rocky, significantly improved via post-launch patches
Frequently Asked Questions
Will GTA 6 have multiple cities like GTA 5 did?
Vice City is the confirmed hub, and leaked/official material suggests a broader state with varied areas beyond the city itself, similar in spirit to San Andreas.
Will there be a pre-load option before launch?
Rockstar hasn't confirmed pre-load details yet. Most major open-world titles do offer pre-loading in the days before release, so it's reasonably likely.
Is Lucia the first playable female protagonist in GTA?
She's the first confirmed playable female protagonist in a mainline, non-DLC GTA release.
Is Leonida based on a real place?
Leonida is a fictional state modeled heavily on Florida, similar to how past GTA locations have drawn on real US regions without being exact recreations.