Major PC Upgrade Coming for Grand Theft Auto V

Overview

• On March 4, Rockstar Games will roll out a significant upgrade for the PC version of GTA 5, introducing features that were previously exclusive to the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S editions.
• The upgrade will implement ray tracing, faster loading times, enhanced visuals, improved audio quality, and more for PC players, although players may need to meet higher hardware specifications.
• PC gamers participating in GTA Online will gain access to new content, including Hao’s Special Works, new vehicles, and the GTA+ subscription service.

The acclaimed Grand Theft Auto 5 is poised for a transformative PC upgrade in the coming weeks. This enhancement will finally bring the “next-gen”features, previously available only to console players, to the PC platform, with Rockstar Games ensuring that existing players receive this major update free of charge.

Initially launched nearly 12 years ago on PS3 and Xbox 360, GTA 5 has undergone numerous re-releases across various platforms, including transitions to PS4 and Xbox One shortly after its debut, and a PC version introduced in 2015. However, the landscape changed in 2022 when Rockstar launched current-gen versions for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, which included advanced features not available to PC users at that time.

Now, almost three years later, Rockstar has confirmed that it will align the PC version with the capabilities of the latest console editions. Among the standout enhancements is the introduction of ray-traced shadows and reflections. Notably, exclusive ray-tracing features such as ray-traced ambient occlusion and global illumination will be incorporated specifically for PC. Players can also expect improved resolution support, faster loading times for SSD users, enhanced audio capabilities including Dolby Atmos support, and upscaling solutions such as AMD FSR 1, FSR3, and Nvidia DLSS 3.

In addition to technical enhancements, GTA Online players on PC will gain access to Hao’s Special Works, allowing for advanced vehicle modifications. Players can look forward to five new car models in addition to tuning options for twenty existing vehicles. Features like Premium Test Rides, HSW Races, and HSW Time Trials will be available, alongside the introduction of Rockstar’s controversial GTA+ subscription service. The eagerly awaited update is scheduled for release on March 4, completely free for existing players.

While these exciting new features elevate the gaming experience, they also raise the hardware requirements for GTA 5 on PC. Fortunately, Rockstar will continue to support the original version of GTA Online for those with less powerful setups, though it’s important to note that crossplay capabilities with the upgraded version will be unavailable. Once again, the PC platform reclaims its status as the ultimate way to experience GTA 5.

GTA 5 PC Free Upgrade: System Requirements and Features

Minimum Requirements

Recommended Requirements

Operating System

Windows 10 (latest service pack)

Windows 11

Processor

Intel Core i7-4770 / AMD FX-9590

Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Memory

8GB RAM

16GB dual-channel RAM

Graphics

Nvidia GeForce GTX 1630 (4GB VRAM) / AMD Radeon RX 6400 (4GB VRAM)

Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (8GB VRAM) / AMD Radeon RX 6600XT (8GB VRAM)

Storage

105GB, SSD required

105GB, DirectStorage-compatible drive

Sound Card and Audio

100% DirectX 10 compatible

Windows Spatial Sound-compatible audio system; Dolby Atmos support required for optimal sound experience.

New Features and General Changes

• Encounter ambient wildlife throughout Southern San Andreas and participate in the daily Wildlife Photography Challenge for exciting rewards.
• PC players can subscribe to GTA+ Membership for special benefits in the upgraded GTA Online experience and beyond.
• Track your criminal progress through all of GTA Online’s updates with the new Career Progress feature, expanding your empire.
• Explore a redesigned Landing Page to streamline gameplay access, plus an improved onboarding experience for newcomers, including a GTA$4, 000, 000 windfall to kickstart your career as an Executive, Gunrunner, Nightclub Owner, or Biker in the Career Builder.

Exploring Hao’s Special Works

• Experience new vehicles and cutting-edge upgrades at Hao’s Special Works (HSW), enhancing automotive performance. Test your skills with Premium Test Rides, HSW Races, and HSW Time Trials.
• New vehicles include:
  • Coil Cyclone II (Super)
  • Imponte Arbiter GT (Muscle)
  • Karin S95 (Sports)
  • Pegassi Weaponized Ignus (Super)
  • Pfister Astron Custom (SUV)
• Upgradable vehicles include:
  • Super: Principe Deveste Eight, Abundance Entity MT
  • Sports: Bravado Banshee, Bravado Banshee GTS, Grotti Italy GTO Stinger TT, Penaud La Coureuse, Ubermacht Niobe
  • Sports Classic: Benefactor Stirling GT, Grotti Turismo Classic
  • Muscle: Bravado Buffalo EVX, Declasse Vigero ZX, Declasse Vigero ZX Convertible
  • Coupe: Annis Euros X32, Übermacht Sentinel XS
  • Off-Road: Maibatsu MonstroCiti, Vapid Firebolt ASP
  • SUV: Karin Vivanite, Weeny Issi Rally
  • Motorcycle: Shitzu Hakuchou Drag
  • Compact: Grotti Brioso R/A

Technical Enhancements Overview

• Exclusive ray tracing features on PC, including ambient occlusion and global illumination, alongside ray-traced shadows and reflections introduced on consoles.
• Support for AMD FSR 1, FSR 3, and NVIDIA DLSS 3 for enhanced performance.
• Considerably faster loading times utilizing SSD and DirectStorage on compatible hardware.
• Improved support for higher resolutions, aspect ratios, and frame rates.
• DualSense controller compatibility, featuring adaptive triggers for a more immersive experience.
• Enhanced audio support including Dolby Atmos, offering superior fidelity in speech, cinematics, and background music.

Source & Images

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