GTA 5: Getting Started Guide

Welcome to the ultimate 'GTA 5: Getting Started Guide'! Dive into the exhilarating world of Grand Theft Auto V with our comprehensive beginner's guide designed to put you on the fast track to success. Whether you're a newcomer to the series or a seasoned player looking for a refresher, we've got you covered. From mastering the fundamentals to exploring the diverse game modes, our guide breaks down everything you need to know. Learn how to create and customize your character, understand basic controls, and seamlessly navigate the vast open-world landscape of Los Santos. Ready to become the ultimate criminal mastermind? Let's get started!

Explore what's inside:

Getting Started - The Basics: Your essential first steps in GTA 5.
Creating and Customizing Your Character: Shape your in-game identity to your unique style.
Understanding Basic Controls: Command the game with ease and precision.
Navigating the Game World: Discover the rich environment of Los Santos.
Overview of Game Modes: From story missions to online adventures, choose how you want to play.

Getting Started - The Basics

So, you just downloaded GTA 5 and you're ready to dive into the wild world of Los Santos. Awesome! Whether you're here for the crazy heists, the expansive open world, or just to cause a little chaos, there's a ton to explore and learn. Let's break down the basics to get you started on the right foot.

1. Understanding the Story Mode

First, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the Story Mode. Here, you'll switch between three main characters: Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. Each character has their own background, special abilities, and unique set of missions.

Michael De Santa: A retired bank robber living a luxurious but strained life.
Franklin Clinton: A young repo man trying to escape the gang life.
Trevor Philips: An unpredictable and chaotic ex-military pilot.

Moving through their storylines will help you understand the game mechanics better and unlock various parts of the map.

2. Getting Around Los Santos

GTA 5's map is huge, so here's how you can get around:

Cars: The easiest and fastest way to get around. You can steal any car by approaching it and pressing the designated button.
Bikes and Motorcycles: Great for weaving through traffic but be careful not to crash.
Planes and Helicopters: These can be found at airports or helipads. Use them for long-distance travel.
Public Transport: Taxis, trains, and buses are also available if you prefer not to drive.

Always keep an eye on your minimap for the GPS route to your destination.

3. Basic Controls

Here are the fundamentals. Remember, these can vary slightly depending on your platform (console or PC):

Movement: Left stick or WASD keys
Camera: Right stick or mouse
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Triangle (PS), Y (Xbox), or F (PC)
Attack/Shoot: R2 (PS), RT (Xbox), or Left Mouse Button (PC)
Sprint: X (PS), A (Xbox), or Shift (PC)
Jump: Square (PS), X (Xbox), or Space (PC)

Spend some time getting comfortable with these controls. They are the foundation for everything you'll do in the game.

4. Missions and Activities

The meat of GTA 5 lies in its missions and activities.

Main Missions: These advance the storyline and unlock new parts of the game.
Side Missions: Offered by various characters, these provide extra cash and unique rewards.
Random Events: As you explore Los Santos, you’ll come across spontaneous activities, like helping a stranded motorist or chasing a thief.

Don’t forget to take part in the leisure activities like golf, tennis, or even yoga to take a break from the action.

5. Earning Money

Money is crucial in GTA 5. Here are ways to earn and save it:

Robberies: Hold up stores for quick cash.
Investments: Use the stock market to grow your wealth. Listen closely to characters for stock tips.
Missions: Complete missions, especially heists, to rake in the big bucks.
Property: Buy properties that generate a weekly income.

Keep checking your in-game phone's stock market app to manage your investments wisely.

6. Customizing Your Experience

Clothing and Style: Visit clothing stores to buy outfits, or barbershops for new haircuts.
Vehicles: Take your cars to Los Santos Customs to pimp them out with new paint jobs, engines, wheels, and more.
Weapons: Head to Ammu-Nation to stock up on guns, ammo, and body armor.

7. Saving Your Game

Don’t forget to save your progress! You can save manually by sleeping in a safehouse bed or using the quick save option on your phone. This ensures you don’t lose any hard-earned progress.

Conclusion

And there you have it! This should give you a solid foundation to start your journey in GTA 5. With the basics under your belt, you're ready to explore, cause havoc, and maybe even play a round of golf. Enjoy the ride and remember - the world of Los Santos is your playground. Happy gaming!

Creating and Customizing Your Character

So, you're jumping into the wild world of Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), and the first step to ruling Los Santos is creating a character that's uniquely you. This section will guide you through character creation and customization, so you can hit the streets in style.

Starting With a Clean Slate

When you first dive into GTA Online, you’ll begin by setting up your character’s heritage. The game lets you pick out your character’s parents, which then determines your starting appearance. You can mix and match features from both parents as you like.

Choose Your Parents: You can select your character’s mom and dad from a list of preset faces. This will form the base look for your character.
Adjust the Resemblance: Use the slider to decide if you want to lean more towards your mom or your dad’s features. Or land somewhere in the middle for a balanced look.

Once you’ve nailed down your heritage, it’s time to tweak those details.

Crafting the Perfect Face

This is where you get to sculpt your character's face to your liking. Here's what you can change:

Features: Adjust everything from your character’s nose shape to their jawline. You can also tweak their eyes, lips, and cheekbones.
Appearance: Make decisions on skin tone, hair, and more. Choose from various hairstyles, facial hair, and even eyebrow shapes. Don’t forget about the eye color!

All these options are about finding a look that suits your style, so feel free to experiment until you find the perfect combo.

Wardrobe Makeover

What’s a new face without some killer threads? GTA 5 has a vast array of clothing and gear choices to ensure your character looks fresh from head to toe.

Outfits: You can start with some basic clothes, but as you earn cash, you'll unlock access to a wide range of stores across Los Santos. Pro tip: Hit up high-end stores like Ponsonbys for the fanciest fashion.
Accessories: Deck out your character with hats, glasses, watches, and even jewelry. Show off your in-game wealth with some killer bling.
Footwear: From sneakers to boots, there’s no limit to your shoe game.

Adding Some Ink

Want your character to have a bit of edge? GTA 5 offers a selection of tattoos that you can slap onto various parts of your character’s body.

Body Art: Head to one of the many tattoo parlors around the map to get inked. Choose from different styles and designs that can be placed on your arms, legs, back, and more.
Customization: A lot of the tattoos can be layered, letting you combine different pieces to create a unique look.

Making a Statement with Hairstyles

Your character’s hair can say a whole lot about them. Visit one of the barber shops in Los Santos to get a fresh cut or a bold new color.

Cuts and Colors: From slick fades to wild, neon styles, the barber shops offer plenty of options for both men and women.
Facial Hair: Don't forget about your beard and mustache! You can trim, shape, and color your facial hair to match your character’s vibe.

Express Yourself Through Emotes

Emotes are a fun way to express yourself in the game. They can be taunts, dances, or simple greetings. Customize your emote wheel to have your favorites ready at all times.

Settings: Open the Interaction Menu, navigate to 'Style', and then 'Action' to select and preview different emotes.
Quick Use: Once set up, you can easily access your emotes during gameplay by pressing certain buttons (check your controls in the settings).

Update Your Look

Your character’s style isn’t set in stone. As you progress in the game, you’ll unlock new customization options and earn money to buy more gear.

Visit Stores Frequently: New items get added to the stores often, so keep checking back.
Mix It Up: Don’t be afraid to change your look regularly. Whether you want to rock a tuxedo for a high-stakes mission or casual wear for cruising around, the choice is yours.

Customizing your character in GTA 5 is more than just looks; it’s about making a statement in Los Santos. Have fun experimenting and remember, style points matter as much as street cred!

Understanding Basic Controls

GTA 5 can feel overwhelming with all its options, but don’t worry! Let's break down the basics to get you cruising around Los Santos like a pro. We'll cover the essential controls for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Ready? Let’s dive in!

On Foot Controls

PS4

Move: Left Stick
Look Around: Right Stick
Sprint: Hold X
Jump/Climb: Square
Melee Attack: Circle
Target/Aim: L2
Fire Weapon: R2
Reload: Circle (aiming mode)
Take Cover: R1
Interact/Use: D-Pad Right

Xbox One

Move: Left Stick
Look Around: Right Stick
Sprint: Hold A
Jump/Climb: X
Melee Attack: B
Target/Aim: LT
Fire Weapon: RT
Reload: B (aiming mode)
Take Cover: RB
Interact/Use: D-Pad Right

PC

Move: WASD
Look Around: Mouse
Sprint: Shift
Jump/Climb: Spacebar
Melee Attack: R
Target/Aim: Right Mouse Button
Fire Weapon: Left Mouse Button
Reload: R
Take Cover: Q
Interact/Use: E

Vehicle Controls

PS4

Drive/Accelerate: R2
Brake/Reverse: L2
Steer: Left Stick
Handbrake: R1
Horn: L3 (Left Stick Click)
Change Weapon: L1
Shoot: R2 (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Triangle

Xbox One

Drive/Accelerate: RT
Brake/Reverse: LT
Steer: Left Stick
Handbrake: RB
Horn: LS (Left Stick Click)
Change Weapon: LB
Shoot: RT (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Y

PC

Drive/Accelerate: W
Brake/Reverse: S
Steer: A/D
Handbrake: Spacebar
Horn: E
Change Weapon: Scroll Wheel
Shoot: Left Mouse Button (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: F

Combat Controls

PS4

Switch Weapon: L1 (hold), Right Stick (cycle)
Quick Switch Weapon: L1 (tap)
Reload: Square
Auto-Target/Lock-On: L2
Free Aim: Right Stick (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: L1 (aim direction), R2 (while holding grenade)

Xbox One

Switch Weapon: LB (hold), Right Stick (cycle)
Quick Switch Weapon: LB (tap)
Reload: X
Auto-Target/Lock-On: LT
Free Aim: Right Stick (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: LB (aim direction), RT (while holding grenade)

PC

Switch Weapon: Mouse Scroll
Quick Switch Weapon: 1-9 (number keys for weapon slots)
Reload: R
Auto-Target/Lock-On: Not available
Free Aim: Mouse (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: G (after equipping grenade)

Special Abilities and Menus

PS4

Activate Special Ability: L3 + R3 (click together)
Open Character Wheel: Hold Down D-Pad
Quick Open Character Wheel: D-Pad Down (tap)

Xbox One

Activate Special Ability: LS + RS
Open Character Wheel: Hold D-Pad Down
Quick Open Character Wheel: D-Pad Down (tap)

PC

Activate Special Ability: Caps Lock
Open Character Wheel: Alt (hold)
Quick Open Character Wheel: Alt (tap)

Other Useful Commands

PS4: Open phone: Up D-Pad
Xbox One: Open phone: Up D-Pad
PC: Open phone: Arrow Up

Mastering these basic controls sets the stage for all the chaos and fun you can have in GTA 5. So, gear up, get comfortable, and let the adventures in Los Santos begin!

Navigating the Game World

Exploring the sprawling world of GTA 5 can be both thrilling and overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting started. From the bustling streets of Los Santos to the rugged terrains of Blaine County, there's always something new to see and do. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the game world like a pro.

Using the Map

The map is your best friend in GTA 5. Access it by pressing the Start button (for consoles) or the M key (for PC). The map displays all sorts of useful information including mission objectives, points of interest, and more.

Zoom In/Out: You can zoom in and out using the right stick (consoles) or the mouse scroll wheel (PC). Zooming in provides a closer look at specific areas, while zooming out gives you a broader view of the entire map.
Set Waypoints: To set a waypoint, hover over the location you want to go and press X (on PlayStation), A (on Xbox), or Enter (on PC). This will create a GPS route to your destination, making it easier to navigate the busy streets.
Filter Icons: Toggle through the different icons on the map to see things like races, stores, and safehouses. This can help you focus on specific activities you want to do.

On Foot Travel

Walking or running around might be the slowest way to get around, but it's essential for checking out small areas or taking in the sights. Here are a few tips:

Walking/Running: Move using the left stick (consoles) or WASD keys (PC). Press the X button (PlayStation), A button (Xbox), or Shift key (PC) to sprint.
Jump/Climb: To jump or climb obstacles, press the Square button (PlayStation), X button (Xbox), or Spacebar (PC).

Vehicles

Cars are the bread and butter of GTA 5 travel. There are tons of different vehicles from motorcycles to helicopters.

Stealing a Car: Approach a car and press the Triangle button (PlayStation), Y button (Xbox), or F key (PC) to enter. Be mindful of nearby cops; stealing a car can attract unwanted attention.
Driving: Use the right trigger (RT) or the W key to accelerate, and the left trigger (LT) or the S key to brake/reverse. Control steering with the left stick (consoles) or arrow keys/AD keys (PC).
Special Vehicles: You can find even more diverse forms of transport like planes, helicopters, and boats. These usually require a bit of practice but are worth mastering for the flexibility they offer.

Public Transport

Believe it or not, GTA 5 includes a functioning public transport system. You can use buses and trains to get around if you’re not in a rush.

Trains: Head to the nearest train station and look for a metro icon on the map. You can hop on and ride to your chosen destination. It's not as fast as driving, but it’s pretty straightforward.
Taxis: You can also call a cab by using your phone’s contacts. Just select the taxi service, and a cab will come to pick you up. An easy way to get around without having to drive yourself.

Fast Travel

While GTA 5 doesn't have a traditional fast travel system, the game does offer some quick travel methods.

Character Switching: Switch between the three main characters (Michael, Trevor, and Franklin) to quickly move across the map. Each character has designated safehouses and garages, making it a helpful way to cover large distances.
Taxi Fast Travel: When you’re in a taxi, you have the option to skip the ride for a small fee, which instantly takes you to your destination.

Conclusion

With these navigation tips, you'll have no trouble making your way through the exciting and chaotic world of GTA 5. Whether you prefer to take it slow and enjoy the sights or speed through the streets in a stolen sports car, this guide should help you navigate smoothly. Happy exploring!

Overview of Game Modes

GTA 5, short for Grand Theft Auto V, offers a rich and diverse range of game modes that cater to various playstyles and preferences. Whether you're in it for the high-octane action, the immersive story, or just a bit of chaos with friends, GTA 5 has got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of the main game modes you'll encounter.

Story Mode

Story Mode is the heart and soul of GTA 5. Here, you dive into the interconnected lives of three protagonists: Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. Each character has their unique backstory, personality, and set of missions. The narrative is engaging, filled with twists and turns, and keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Michael De Santa is a retired bank robber living in luxury with his dysfunctional family. His mid-life crisis sets off a chain of events that draw him back into a life of crime.
Franklin Clinton is a young street hustler trying to climb the criminal ranks. He's ambitious and skilled, but often finds himself in over his head.
Trevor Philips is a wild and unpredictable character with a penchant for violence. A former friend and partner of Michael, Trevor’s actions are as erratic as they are entertaining.

In Story Mode, you can switch between these characters at almost any time, giving you different perspectives and experiences of the game's world. You'll engage in everything from robberies and heists to more mundane activities like yoga and triathlons.

GTA Online

If you want to take the action beyond the single-player experience, GTA Online is the way to go. This online multiplayer mode allows you to create your own character and dive into the chaotic world of Los Santos with friends and strangers alike.

Heists: Team up with others to pull off intricate, multi-part robberies. Each heist requires careful planning, strategy, and teamwork.
Races: For the speed demons out there, GTA Online offers a variety of racing modes. You can race cars, bikes, boats, and even planes.
Adversary Modes: These are team-based game modes that pit players against each other in creative and often intense scenarios.
Freemode: If structured activities aren't your thing, Freemode lets you roam the world freely. You can engage in random events, cause chaos, or just explore.

GTA Online is constantly updated with new content, so there's always something fresh to dive into. From new cars and weapons to entire new missions and events, the game keeps evolving.

Director Mode

Director Mode is perfect for those who enjoy being behind the camera. This mode allows you to create your own scenes and movies using GTA 5's characters, settings, and props. You can control almost every aspect of the game world, including the time of day, weather, and pedestrian behaviors.

Casting: Choose from a wide range of characters, including main story characters, pedestrians, or even animals.
Settings: Customize locations, weather, and time of day to fit your vision.
Special Effects: Add filters and effects to make your scenes more cinematic or just plain weird.

Director Mode offers limitless creative potential, letting you become the director of your own mini-movies set in the vivid world of Los Santos.

Chaos Mode

For those who crave pure, unfiltered mayhem, Chaos Mode is the ultimate playground. While not an official mode, many players engage in this by setting their own rules and challenges to create as much chaos as possible.

Police Chases: See how long you can last against the relentless pursuit of the LAPD.
Random Quests: Set your own bizarre objectives, like stealing a specific type of car or causing a certain amount of property damage.
Challenges: Take part in community-created challenges to test your skills and creativity.

Whether you're looking for a structured experience or just want to blow off some steam, Chaos Mode provides endless possibilities for fun and destruction.

Conclusion

GTA 5's game modes ensure there's something for everyone. The deep and engaging Story Mode, the ever-expanding world of GTA Online, the creative freedom of Director Mode, and the sheer madness of Chaos Mode each offer unique experiences that keep the game feeling fresh and exciting. Dive in and find the experience that suits you best-or try them all for the full GTA 5 adventure!

Explore what's inside:

Getting Started - The Basics: Your essential first steps in GTA 5.
Creating and Customizing Your Character: Shape your in-game identity to your unique style.
Understanding Basic Controls: Command the game with ease and precision.
Navigating the Game World: Discover the rich environment of Los Santos.
Overview of Game Modes: From story missions to online adventures, choose how you want to play.

Getting Started - The Basics

1. Understanding the Story Mode

Michael De Santa: A retired bank robber living a luxurious but strained life.
Franklin Clinton: A young repo man trying to escape the gang life.
Trevor Philips: An unpredictable and chaotic ex-military pilot.

Moving through their storylines will help you understand the game mechanics better and unlock various parts of the map.

2. Getting Around Los Santos

GTA 5's map is huge, so here's how you can get around:

Cars: The easiest and fastest way to get around. You can steal any car by approaching it and pressing the designated button.
Bikes and Motorcycles: Great for weaving through traffic but be careful not to crash.
Planes and Helicopters: These can be found at airports or helipads. Use them for long-distance travel.
Public Transport: Taxis, trains, and buses are also available if you prefer not to drive.

Always keep an eye on your minimap for the GPS route to your destination.

3. Basic Controls

Here are the fundamentals. Remember, these can vary slightly depending on your platform (console or PC):

Movement: Left stick or WASD keys
Camera: Right stick or mouse
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Triangle (PS), Y (Xbox), or F (PC)
Attack/Shoot: R2 (PS), RT (Xbox), or Left Mouse Button (PC)
Sprint: X (PS), A (Xbox), or Shift (PC)
Jump: Square (PS), X (Xbox), or Space (PC)

Spend some time getting comfortable with these controls. They are the foundation for everything you'll do in the game.

4. Missions and Activities

The meat of GTA 5 lies in its missions and activities.

Main Missions: These advance the storyline and unlock new parts of the game.
Side Missions: Offered by various characters, these provide extra cash and unique rewards.
Random Events: As you explore Los Santos, you’ll come across spontaneous activities, like helping a stranded motorist or chasing a thief.

Don’t forget to take part in the leisure activities like golf, tennis, or even yoga to take a break from the action.

5. Earning Money

Money is crucial in GTA 5. Here are ways to earn and save it:

Robberies: Hold up stores for quick cash.
Investments: Use the stock market to grow your wealth. Listen closely to characters for stock tips.
Missions: Complete missions, especially heists, to rake in the big bucks.
Property: Buy properties that generate a weekly income.

Keep checking your in-game phone's stock market app to manage your investments wisely.

6. Customizing Your Experience

Clothing and Style: Visit clothing stores to buy outfits, or barbershops for new haircuts.
Vehicles: Take your cars to Los Santos Customs to pimp them out with new paint jobs, engines, wheels, and more.
Weapons: Head to Ammu-Nation to stock up on guns, ammo, and body armor.

7. Saving Your Game

Don’t forget to save your progress! You can save manually by sleeping in a safehouse bed or using the quick save option on your phone. This ensures you don’t lose any hard-earned progress.

Conclusion

Creating and Customizing Your Character

Starting With a Clean Slate

Choose Your Parents: You can select your character’s mom and dad from a list of preset faces. This will form the base look for your character.
Adjust the Resemblance: Use the slider to decide if you want to lean more towards your mom or your dad’s features. Or land somewhere in the middle for a balanced look.

Once you’ve nailed down your heritage, it’s time to tweak those details.

Crafting the Perfect Face

This is where you get to sculpt your character's face to your liking. Here's what you can change:

Features: Adjust everything from your character’s nose shape to their jawline. You can also tweak their eyes, lips, and cheekbones.
Appearance: Make decisions on skin tone, hair, and more. Choose from various hairstyles, facial hair, and even eyebrow shapes. Don’t forget about the eye color!

All these options are about finding a look that suits your style, so feel free to experiment until you find the perfect combo.

Wardrobe Makeover

What’s a new face without some killer threads? GTA 5 has a vast array of clothing and gear choices to ensure your character looks fresh from head to toe.

Outfits: You can start with some basic clothes, but as you earn cash, you'll unlock access to a wide range of stores across Los Santos. Pro tip: Hit up high-end stores like Ponsonbys for the fanciest fashion.
Accessories: Deck out your character with hats, glasses, watches, and even jewelry. Show off your in-game wealth with some killer bling.
Footwear: From sneakers to boots, there’s no limit to your shoe game.

Adding Some Ink

Want your character to have a bit of edge? GTA 5 offers a selection of tattoos that you can slap onto various parts of your character’s body.

Body Art: Head to one of the many tattoo parlors around the map to get inked. Choose from different styles and designs that can be placed on your arms, legs, back, and more.
Customization: A lot of the tattoos can be layered, letting you combine different pieces to create a unique look.

Making a Statement with Hairstyles

Your character’s hair can say a whole lot about them. Visit one of the barber shops in Los Santos to get a fresh cut or a bold new color.

Cuts and Colors: From slick fades to wild, neon styles, the barber shops offer plenty of options for both men and women.
Facial Hair: Don't forget about your beard and mustache! You can trim, shape, and color your facial hair to match your character’s vibe.

Express Yourself Through Emotes

Emotes are a fun way to express yourself in the game. They can be taunts, dances, or simple greetings. Customize your emote wheel to have your favorites ready at all times.

Settings: Open the Interaction Menu, navigate to 'Style', and then 'Action' to select and preview different emotes.
Quick Use: Once set up, you can easily access your emotes during gameplay by pressing certain buttons (check your controls in the settings).

Update Your Look

Your character’s style isn’t set in stone. As you progress in the game, you’ll unlock new customization options and earn money to buy more gear.

Visit Stores Frequently: New items get added to the stores often, so keep checking back.
Mix It Up: Don’t be afraid to change your look regularly. Whether you want to rock a tuxedo for a high-stakes mission or casual wear for cruising around, the choice is yours.

Customizing your character in GTA 5 is more than just looks; it’s about making a statement in Los Santos. Have fun experimenting and remember, style points matter as much as street cred!

Understanding Basic Controls

On Foot Controls

PS4

Move: Left Stick
Look Around: Right Stick
Sprint: Hold X
Jump/Climb: Square
Melee Attack: Circle
Target/Aim: L2
Fire Weapon: R2
Reload: Circle (aiming mode)
Take Cover: R1
Interact/Use: D-Pad Right

Xbox One

Move: Left Stick
Look Around: Right Stick
Sprint: Hold A
Jump/Climb: X
Melee Attack: B
Target/Aim: LT
Fire Weapon: RT
Reload: B (aiming mode)
Take Cover: RB
Interact/Use: D-Pad Right

PC

Move: WASD
Look Around: Mouse
Sprint: Shift
Jump/Climb: Spacebar
Melee Attack: R
Target/Aim: Right Mouse Button
Fire Weapon: Left Mouse Button
Reload: R
Take Cover: Q
Interact/Use: E

Vehicle Controls

PS4

Drive/Accelerate: R2
Brake/Reverse: L2
Steer: Left Stick
Handbrake: R1
Horn: L3 (Left Stick Click)
Change Weapon: L1
Shoot: R2 (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Triangle

Xbox One

Drive/Accelerate: RT
Brake/Reverse: LT
Steer: Left Stick
Handbrake: RB
Horn: LS (Left Stick Click)
Change Weapon: LB
Shoot: RT (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: Y

PC

Drive/Accelerate: W
Brake/Reverse: S
Steer: A/D
Handbrake: Spacebar
Horn: E
Change Weapon: Scroll Wheel
Shoot: Left Mouse Button (with weapon selected)
Enter/Exit Vehicle: F

Combat Controls

PS4

Switch Weapon: L1 (hold), Right Stick (cycle)
Quick Switch Weapon: L1 (tap)
Reload: Square
Auto-Target/Lock-On: L2
Free Aim: Right Stick (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: L1 (aim direction), R2 (while holding grenade)

Xbox One

Switch Weapon: LB (hold), Right Stick (cycle)
Quick Switch Weapon: LB (tap)
Reload: X
Auto-Target/Lock-On: LT
Free Aim: Right Stick (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: LB (aim direction), RT (while holding grenade)

PC

Switch Weapon: Mouse Scroll
Quick Switch Weapon: 1-9 (number keys for weapon slots)
Reload: R
Auto-Target/Lock-On: Not available
Free Aim: Mouse (while aiming)
Throw Grenade: G (after equipping grenade)

Special Abilities and Menus

PS4

Activate Special Ability: L3 + R3 (click together)
Open Character Wheel: Hold Down D-Pad
Quick Open Character Wheel: D-Pad Down (tap)

Xbox One

Activate Special Ability: LS + RS
Open Character Wheel: Hold D-Pad Down
Quick Open Character Wheel: D-Pad Down (tap)

PC

Activate Special Ability: Caps Lock
Open Character Wheel: Alt (hold)
Quick Open Character Wheel: Alt (tap)

Other Useful Commands

PS4: Open phone: Up D-Pad
Xbox One: Open phone: Up D-Pad
PC: Open phone: Arrow Up

Mastering these basic controls sets the stage for all the chaos and fun you can have in GTA 5. So, gear up, get comfortable, and let the adventures in Los Santos begin!

Navigating the Game World

Using the Map

Zoom In/Out: You can zoom in and out using the right stick (consoles) or the mouse scroll wheel (PC). Zooming in provides a closer look at specific areas, while zooming out gives you a broader view of the entire map.
Set Waypoints: To set a waypoint, hover over the location you want to go and press X (on PlayStation), A (on Xbox), or Enter (on PC). This will create a GPS route to your destination, making it easier to navigate the busy streets.
Filter Icons: Toggle through the different icons on the map to see things like races, stores, and safehouses. This can help you focus on specific activities you want to do.

On Foot Travel

Walking or running around might be the slowest way to get around, but it's essential for checking out small areas or taking in the sights. Here are a few tips:

Walking/Running: Move using the left stick (consoles) or WASD keys (PC). Press the X button (PlayStation), A button (Xbox), or Shift key (PC) to sprint.
Jump/Climb: To jump or climb obstacles, press the Square button (PlayStation), X button (Xbox), or Spacebar (PC).

Vehicles

Cars are the bread and butter of GTA 5 travel. There are tons of different vehicles from motorcycles to helicopters.

Stealing a Car: Approach a car and press the Triangle button (PlayStation), Y button (Xbox), or F key (PC) to enter. Be mindful of nearby cops; stealing a car can attract unwanted attention.
Driving: Use the right trigger (RT) or the W key to accelerate, and the left trigger (LT) or the S key to brake/reverse. Control steering with the left stick (consoles) or arrow keys/AD keys (PC).
Special Vehicles: You can find even more diverse forms of transport like planes, helicopters, and boats. These usually require a bit of practice but are worth mastering for the flexibility they offer.

Public Transport

Believe it or not, GTA 5 includes a functioning public transport system. You can use buses and trains to get around if you’re not in a rush.

Trains: Head to the nearest train station and look for a metro icon on the map. You can hop on and ride to your chosen destination. It's not as fast as driving, but it’s pretty straightforward.
Taxis: You can also call a cab by using your phone’s contacts. Just select the taxi service, and a cab will come to pick you up. An easy way to get around without having to drive yourself.

Fast Travel

While GTA 5 doesn't have a traditional fast travel system, the game does offer some quick travel methods.

Character Switching: Switch between the three main characters (Michael, Trevor, and Franklin) to quickly move across the map. Each character has designated safehouses and garages, making it a helpful way to cover large distances.
Taxi Fast Travel: When you’re in a taxi, you have the option to skip the ride for a small fee, which instantly takes you to your destination.

Conclusion

Overview of Game Modes

Story Mode

Michael De Santa is a retired bank robber living in luxury with his dysfunctional family. His mid-life crisis sets off a chain of events that draw him back into a life of crime.
Franklin Clinton is a young street hustler trying to climb the criminal ranks. He's ambitious and skilled, but often finds himself in over his head.
Trevor Philips is a wild and unpredictable character with a penchant for violence. A former friend and partner of Michael, Trevor’s actions are as erratic as they are entertaining.

GTA Online

Heists: Team up with others to pull off intricate, multi-part robberies. Each heist requires careful planning, strategy, and teamwork.
Races: For the speed demons out there, GTA Online offers a variety of racing modes. You can race cars, bikes, boats, and even planes.
Adversary Modes: These are team-based game modes that pit players against each other in creative and often intense scenarios.
Freemode: If structured activities aren't your thing, Freemode lets you roam the world freely. You can engage in random events, cause chaos, or just explore.

GTA Online is constantly updated with new content, so there's always something fresh to dive into. From new cars and weapons to entire new missions and events, the game keeps evolving.

Director Mode

Casting: Choose from a wide range of characters, including main story characters, pedestrians, or even animals.
Settings: Customize locations, weather, and time of day to fit your vision.
Special Effects: Add filters and effects to make your scenes more cinematic or just plain weird.

Director Mode offers limitless creative potential, letting you become the director of your own mini-movies set in the vivid world of Los Santos.

Chaos Mode

Police Chases: See how long you can last against the relentless pursuit of the LAPD.
Random Quests: Set your own bizarre objectives, like stealing a specific type of car or causing a certain amount of property damage.
Challenges: Take part in community-created challenges to test your skills and creativity.

Whether you're looking for a structured experience or just want to blow off some steam, Chaos Mode provides endless possibilities for fun and destruction.