Gamefings logoimg

Review of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition on PS5

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Nov 2021
Cover image of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition on PS5
Gamefings Score: 5.0
Platform: PS5 PS5 logo
Released: 11 Nov 2021
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Grove Street Games
Publisher: Rockstar Games

Introduction

Ah, the 'Grand Theft Auto' series. A franchise that has stolen the hearts of players before turning around to steal their cars, their cash, and occasionally their dignity. Now, with 'The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition,' we are treated to a recreated version of three classics, but one must ask: is this truly the definitive edition or is it just a high-res face lift paired with some questionable decisions?

Gameplay

In this remaster, players relive the escapades of Claude, Tommy Vercetti, and CJ. Each game comes with more missions than you can shake a stick at (or a crowbar, if you prefer). Missions range from car thefts, hit jobs, to save-your-brother-from-a-crazy-gang-style scenarios. Emphasis on free-roaming has always been a staple, and it is back with a shining facelift, allowing players to explore the open worlds while causing as much chaos as they can. This version promises updated controls that are meant to mimic the sleek handling of 'GTA V', but many players argue that it's less 'remastered' and more 'reconstructed' with mixed results. Sometimes you get the silky smooth sensation you hoped for; sometimes, it feels like your finger is permanently glued to the controller's right trigger for no good reason.

Graphics

Now, let's talk about the visuals. The enhancements are evident-textures are crisp, lighting is improved, and the addition of new foliage gives the world a fresh coat of paint. However, that paint can sometimes look like it was applied by a toddler who just discovered finger paints. Critics have pointed out that certain character models resemble hastily created assets that one might find in a budget mobile game rather than a high-caliber franchise. In some cases, it's like they retained the charm of the originals while also managing to lose tons of personality. The game suffered from bouts of pop-in, awkward animations, and let's not even discuss rain dynamics that would obscure your vision like someone threw a bucket of water at the screen.

Conclusion

In summary, 'Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition' is...well, it's a mixed bag. It's like expecting a gourmet meal and getting a dumpster fire with garnishes. While some fans can appreciate the effort put in to modernize a beloved classic, others feel betrayed, especially considering the amount of bugs that came creeping in like a raccoon at a picnic. For those diehard fans of the series, steer into the chaos for nostalgia's sake, but hold onto your wallets-this carjacking might leave you feeling unsatisfied.

See Latest Prices for Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition on PS5 on Amazon

See Prices for Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition on PS5 on Ebay

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Sophie Turner Is Lara Croft — How Tomb Raider's Brutal Skill Ceiling Will Shape Amazon's TV Take'
Hemal Harris - 04 Sep 2025
Sophie Turner will play Lara Croft in Amazon's Tomb Raider series. Here's how the show can capture the games' brutal challenge loo...
image for news article 'Gamescom 2025: From Hornet's Revenge to Gunfights in the Future — The Biggest Reveals, Ranked by Hype (and Probability of Screaming)'
Gemma Looksby - 27 Aug 2025
Gamescom 2025 unleashed release dates, surprises, and enough nostalgia to power a retro arcade. Hollow Knight: Silksong finally la...
image for news article 'From Sidekick to Symptom: An In-Depth Look at How Game Characters Grow (and Break) Over Time'
Tanya Krane - 22 Aug 2025
A witty, in-depth analysis of how video game characters evolve - from antiheroes and companions to tragic villains - and how gamep...
image for news article 'Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Skill Test — How to Survive When Friendly Fire Is A Feature'
Hemal Harris - 22 Aug 2025
Helldivers 2 turns cooperative shooters into a terrifying teamwork exam. From friendly-fire fiascos to stratagem juggling and glob...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus August Drop: Mortal Kombat 1, Spider-Man, Sword of the Sea and Two Resident Evils — Sony’s Buffet of Beatdowns and Beachside Introspection'
Chucky - 22 Aug 2025
Sony's August PlayStation Plus drop mixes Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel's Spider-Man with day-one indie Sword of the Sea, EDF6 co-op ...
image for news article 'Tariff Drama and Console Character Arcs: How the PS5 Price Hike Recasts PlayStation's Story'
Tanya Krane - 21 Aug 2025
Sony just raised PS5 prices in the US - but this is more than a number. We break down the cast, the catalyst (hello, tariffs), and...
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...