The WhatsNext verdict
San Andreas remains an essential pick for players who want a huge, characterful open world with an unforgettable soundtrack and room to cause trouble their own way. Expect rough edges in the mission design and controls, but the sense of place and possibility is still exceptional.
What it does best
A radio soundtrack that defines its era
A whole state built for reckless freedom
Three cities and a countryside that feel like a journey
A crime saga where CJ visibly becomes your version of him
What might put you off
Uneven mission design and forced detours
Dated controls, aiming, and camera behavior
The setup
What you are walking into
Returning after his mother's murder to the semi-fictional city of Los Santos (based on Los Angeles), Carl Johnson, a former gang banger, must take back the streets for his family and friends by gaining respect and once again gaining control over the streets. However, a story filled with crime, lies and corruption will lead him to trudge the entire state of San Andreas (based on California and Nevada) to rebuild his life.
Where it lives
Genre
Vibe
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