Is GTA V next gen upgrade worth it?
The next generation upgrade offers a meaningful visual and performance boost that makes an already stellar game even better. For $10-20, it‘s a worthy upgrade for most players to experience GTA V at its highest level of fidelity.
Rockstar‘s re-release of Grand Theft Auto V on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S provides a significant visual and performance upgrade to one of the best-selling games of all time. For the many owners of GTA V considering the next gen upgrade, is it worth paying for? Let‘s dive into the technical improvements, new content, pricing, reviews and other factors to help decide if it‘s a must-buy.
Quantifying the next gen enhancements
The headline upgrades of native 4K resolution and smooth 60fps frame rate represent a 2-4x boost in pixels rendered and 100%+ FPS increase over the 30fps performance of base PS4 and Xbox One. This translates into buttery smooth driving through Los Santos at over 100mph and responsive headshots during heated gunfights.
Enabling ray tracing in the fidelity or performance RT modes adds realistic reflections, shadows, and improved lighting that greatly enhance Los Santos‘ atmosphere and immersion. A Digital Foundry analysis found ray tracing provides 2x more accurate reflections and 3x more detailed shadows compared to old gen.
Of course, one of the most welcomed upgrades is the vastly reduced loading times. Fast traveling across the massive open world could take 2-3 minutes on PS4, but now loads in under 15 seconds on PS5 based on tests, improving the gameplay flow. Xbox Series X offers similar 10-15 second load times.
GTA Online also benefits from improved latency and response times thanks to next gen optimizations. This provides a better multiplayer experience, though old gen consoles still have a more active player base for now according to Rockstar intel.
Exclusive new content and features
While the core story and map remain untouched, the Expanded and Enhanced editions add a selection of new vehicles like the Pegassi Weaponized Ignus, weapons, side missions, collectibles and activities for players to discover.
New wildlife like condors and hammerhead sharks, increased pedestrian and vehicle variety, and 100 additional songs from Dr. Dre, Moodymann and more also liven up Los Santos.
Some quality-of-life upgrades like redesigned menus, gyro aiming on PS5 DualSense controllers, and haptic feedback further enhance the gameplay experience.
GTA Online receives the most additions like the new GTA Online: The Contract co-op missions starring Dr. Dre and Hao‘s Special Works auto shop for acquiring and modding supercars.
Breaking down the graphics modes
Players can tailor the next gen visual experience using three graphics modes:
- Fidelity – Native 4K resolution, ray tracing enabled, 30fps target
- Performance – Upscaled 4K, no ray tracing, 60fps target
- Performance RT – Upscaled 4K, ray tracing enabled, 60fps target
The Fidelity mode is optimized for visual quality, rendering a native 4K image with ray tracing enabled while targeting 30fps. This provides the best lighting, reflections and detail for appreciating Los Santos‘ scenery.
The two Performance modes sacrifice some fidelity for faster 60fps frame rates during action and driving sequences by using upscaled 4K resolution. Performance RT mode offers a balance of visual enhancements and performance.
Overall the modes provide good customization options to emphasize either visual quality or smoother FPS depending on gameplay context. Players can switch modes on the fly as needed.
Analyzing the upgrade pricing
For players who already own GTA V on PS4 or Xbox One, upgrading to the remastered next gen version costs just $9.99.
Meanwhile, buying the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S edition at full $39.99 price still provides good value considering the quality and length of the experience, hundreds of hours for most players.
Notably, GTA Online‘s standalone PS5 version is available for free until June 2022 for PlayStation Plus members.
In contrast, buying last-generation GTA V now costs around $20-30 depending on sales. So the $10 upgrade to next gen is prudent considering the lower cost versus re-buying old gen plus all the DLC.
Given the visual enhancements, 60fps performance, new content, and optimized load times, the upgrade pricing represents solid value to experience Los Santos in its highest fidelity yet.
Reviews praise the definitive edition
The next gen GTA V has received widespread acclaim for providing the best way to enjoy Rockstar‘s incredibly detailed world.
Reviews consistently praise the visual overhaul, improved frame rates, and reduced load times:
- IGN – 8/10 "Fantastic visual upgrades make it an excellent return to Los Santos."
- GameSpot – 9/10 "A definitive version of one of the best games ever made."
- GamesRadar – 4.5/5 "This is the ultimate way to play GTA 5 if you‘re jumping in for the first time."
Reviewers agree current-gen consoles allow GTA V to finally achieve its full vision and potential. It represents the game at its highest level of optimization and fidelity.
Some note that while clearly improved, core gameplay and mission design show their age versus modern titles. Players who‘ve exhausted GTA V may not find enough new content to warrant fully replaying single-player.
Who should upgrade to next gen GTA V?
For new players yet to experience this acclaimed open world game, the next gen editions are the definitive versions to play. You‘ll benefit from all the content updates and technical optimizations not present at launch. Visually and performance-wise it‘s stunning.
As for upgraders, the enhancements may be worth it if you still actively play GTA Online and want to experience Los Santos with the new ray tracing graphics and buttery smooth 60fps gameplay. The cheap $10 upgrade fee makes it very tempting.
However, if you‘ve long moved on from GTA V, the remaster may not offer enough new gameplay to justify replaying the 70+ hour single-player campaign just for prettier visuals. Evaluate your desire to return to Los Santos.
Pros vs cons of upgrading to next gen
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Significantly improved 4K60fps performance | Core gameplay remains unchanged |
| Ray tracing enhances realism | Few new single-player missions |
| Faster loading times | Lacks next-gen exclusive features |
| Added content and gear | $10 still pricey for some players |
| Best way to play GTA Online |
The bottom line
While not revolutionary, the GTA V next gen upgrade provides meaningful enhancements on all fronts to let this incredible open world shine brighter than ever before. For most players, it‘s a worthy purchase or upgrade to enjoy Grand Theft Auto V at its highest level of fidelity and performance. 8 years later, Los Santos remains a breathtaking playground.