Do I have to buy another GTA 5 again for PS5?
As a lifelong GTA fan eagerly awaiting the PS5 launch, I‘ve done my homework on Rockstar‘s latest re-release to help fellow players make the best choice for their new console. Here‘s the quick answer:
No, you do NOT need to buy another full copy of GTA 5 for PS5!
Existing owners can upgrade to the next-gen edition through a discounted $10 digital purchase. But depending on your specific situation, some things to know…
Upgrading GTA 5 from PS4 to PS5
Let‘s start with the upgrade process if you already own PS4 GTA 5:
- A $9.99 USD/$14.99 AUD upgrade fee will get you the PS5 enhanced edition
- This covers the full single player story mode and GTA Online
- You CAN transfer your existing GTA Online character and progression!
Now keep in mind – you‘ll still need your PS4 game disc inserted each time as proof of ownership.
For digital owners though, your PS5 license is tied to your PlayStation Network ID rather than a disc. Much more convenient when swapping seamlessly between Story Mode and Online!
Standalone GTA Online Details
Here‘s the exciting bit: GTA Online will also be available as a standalone game for the first time!
PS5 players can download it for FREE from the PlayStation Store from launch until June 2023. This does NOT include Story Mode – it‘s an online multiplayer-only download.
The Xbox Series S/X version costs $19.99 USD, so PlayStation definitely wins out here. Take advantage while you can!
After June 2023, PS5 GTA Online will cost the same $19.99 – still a great bargain considering the hundreds of hours of entertainment.
Enhanced Graphics, Content & Weekly Bonuses
Now onto the juicy enhancements making GTA 5 feel new again in 2024…
With the power of new-gen hardware, GTA 5 on PS5 promises:
- Up to 4K Resolution & 60 FPS Performance
- Ray Tracing Reflections
- Faster Load Times
- Increased Traffic & Pedestrian Density
- New Weapon Wheel & Radio Stations
- GTA+ Monthly Subscription for Exclusive Content
- Weekly GTA$ Bonuses to Spend Online
I‘m especially hyped for those ray tracing reflections making Los Santos feel more lifelike than ever before!
Let‘s not forget the exclusive new story mode content coming too – new weapons, vehicles, side missions, collectibles, Easter eggs and more surprises to discover!
"Is the PS5 Upgrade Worth It?"
In this gamer‘s opinion – absolutely! Considering the hundreds or even thousands of hours many fans have spent in Los Santos…
$10 is a tiny investment to keep playing while enjoying serious visual and technical upgrades.
Digital Foundry expert John Linneman agrees:
"With faster loading, excellent activity streaming, upgraded visuals and flawless frame-rates, it‘s hard not to recommend this as the best way to play Grand Theft Auto 5 today."
But watch my in-depth PS5 vs PS4 Graphics Comparison below and decide for yourself!
And if you haven‘t played since your PS3 days, downloading the free GTA Online standalone between March and June is a total no-brainer.
[embedded graphics comparison video]GTA 5 PS5 FAQ
Let‘s wrap up with answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q: Do I need to rebuy GTA 5‘s story mode?
A: Not if you already own on PS4. Just grab the $9.99 PS5 upgrade!
Q: Can I transfer my GTA Online character?
A: Yes all progression comes with you to PS5!
Q: Is PS4 GTA Online shutting down?
A: Nope – PS4 and PS5 players will play in separate pools.
Q: Can I upgrade from Xbox One instead of PlayStation?
A: You sure can – same $9.99 fee for Xbox Series X/S. Details here.
And there you have it friends! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below, as we count down to going back to Los Santos in true new-gen style!
