Rockstar Games today announced that a free upgrade for Grand Theft Auto V on PC is set to launch on March 4, bringing a host of enhancements previously exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The update will introduce upgraded visuals, faster loading times, expanded content in GTA Online, and more.
Next-Gen Features for PC Players
Players who currently own GTA V on PC will be able to upgrade at no cost, carrying over both Story Mode and Online progress. With this update, PC players gain access to:
- Hao’s Special Works (HSW): Customize select vehicles with top-tier performance upgrades, take on HSW Races and Time Trials, and test drive exclusive Premium Test Rides.
- Wildlife Encounters: Discover and photograph animals across Southern San Andreas to participate in the Wildlife Photography Challenge for in-game rewards.
- GTA+ Membership Access: For the first time, PC players can subscribe to GTA Online’s premium membership, unlocking exclusive bonuses and in-game cash.
- Career Progress Tracking: Keep tabs on your criminal empire’s growth with a new Career Progress feature, tracking achievements across all GTA Online updates.
- Revamped Landing Page: A refreshed interface allows players to jump into the action faster than ever.
Newcomers will also benefit from an improved introductory experience, including a GTA$4,000,000 windfall to start their criminal careers as an Executive, Gunrunner, Nightclub Owner, or Biker.
New Vehicles and Upgrades
The update introduces five new vehicles to GTA Online on PC, alongside a selection of cars now eligible for Hao’s Special Works modifications:
Newly Added Vehicles:
- Coil Cyclone II (Super)
- Imponte Arbiter GT (Muscle)
- Karin S95 (Sports)
- Pegassi Weaponized Ignus (Super)
- Pfister Astron Custom (SUV)
Newly Upgradable Vehicles at HSW:
- Super: Principe Deveste Eight, Överflöd Entity MT
- Sports: Bravado Banshee, Grotti Itali GTO Stinger TT, Übermacht Niobe
- Muscle: Bravado Buffalo EVX, Declasse Vigero ZX
- SUVs, Motorcycles, and More: Karin Vivanite, Weeny Issi Rally, Shitzu Hakuchou Drag
Technical Enhancements and System Support
The upgraded version of GTA V on PC also brings several technical advancements, including:
- Ray Tracing Enhancements: Ambient occlusion, global illumination, ray-traced shadows, and reflections.
- Faster Loading Times: Optimized SSD and DirectStorage support for improved performance.
- Support for Advanced Graphics Tech: AMD FSR1, FSR3, NVIDIA DLSS 3.
- Expanded Display Options: Higher resolutions, wider aspect ratios, and improved frame rate performance.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos support, improved speech clarity, and higher-fidelity music.
- DualSense Controller Integration: Adaptive triggers and haptic feedback for PlayStation 5 controller users on PC.
Recommended Specifications
For the best experience, Rockstar has provided the following recommended system requirements:
| Component | 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 Configuration 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 & Audio | 100% DirectX 10 compatible | Windows Spatial Sound-compatible audio system, Dolby Atmos support for enhanced experience |
GTA+ Membership Debuts on PC
For the first time, PC players will be able to purchase GTA+, the game’s premium membership service. Benefits include:
- Monthly GTA$500,000 deposits
- Exclusive discounts, property benefits, and bonus Shark Cards with a 15% extra GTA$ boost
Continued Support for the Previous Version
Rockstar has confirmed that the original version of GTA V on PC will remain supported for players whose hardware does not meet the new upgrade’s requirements. However, it will exist as a separate instance, meaning players on the original version will not be able to join sessions with those using the upgraded version.
More Updates Coming Soon
In addition to the March 4 update, Rockstar teased further GTA Online content on the horizon, including new missions and opportunities tied to Oscar Guzman. More details are expected in the coming weeks via the Rockstar Newswire.
