What up my peeps? Time to gather around the TV because there is fun to be had for your whole dysfunctional family when the Grove Street OG’s attempt to take back the ‘hood.
It has been two long years since “Grand Theft Auto: Vice City,” and the gang at Rockstar have put this time to good use creating the everlasting gobstopper of video games. “GTA: San Andreas” is so filled with things to do and see that you may never reach the elusive 100 percent completion rating.
Everything you’ve come to expect from the GTA franchise is here and more. The only thing missing are the health spheres. They have been replaced by the characters’ need to eat. Like “The Sims” on crack, you have to manage your character’s health stats, such as fat and muscle, and you must maintain respect from the guys and give off sex appeal for the ladies. The working girls are still here to lend a hand; however, there is an aspect of the game that will have the girls giving money to you as well.
There are mini-games galore such as card games, billiards and going out on dates, legitimate ones, believe it or not. The music is just as varied as usual. There is nothing more surreal than performing drive-bys while listening to “Freebird” or “Horse With No Name.” You are also responsible for recruiting gang members to join your crew.
Shooting crack dealers can earn you an easy $2,000. The best thing about it is you can wait until the paramedics come to regenerate them and kill them again.
Like Vice City, you can purchase properties. Unlike Vice City, most properties are now accessible. For example, with The Pig Pen Strip Club, you can enter, throw a $20 bill at the girl on stage or enter the back room and invest a Benjamin on a lap dance. I’d suggest saving before doing this because spending the cash does nothing for your game, only your amusement.
The conversations may well be the biggest controversy surrounding this game. Not since my last family reunion have I heard so many four-lettered expletives. However, as I said, there is fun to be had for the entire family. I just taught my next-door neighbor Beth how to play so she could bond with her son.
“GTA: San Andreas” may well be the most controversial in-depth video game ever. So put down the schoolbooks and pick up your game controller and help C.J. avenge the death of his brother and mother. You’ll be glad you did.