The World of San Andreas
Released in October 2004, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas set a new standard for open-world ambition. Set across the fictional state of San Andreas — comprising three cities based on Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas — the game follows Carl 'CJ' Johnson's return from Liberty City to his home after his mother's murder.
Three Cities, One State
Los Santos (Los Angeles): gang-dominated streets, movie industry, beach culture. San Fierro (San Francisco): hills, cable car routes, eclectic neighbourhoods, and a major criminal underworld. Las Venturas (Las Vegas): casinos, desert highways, military installations, and organised crime. Each city unlocks progressively through the story and offers distinct missions and activities.
RPG Elements
San Andreas pioneered RPG mechanics in open-world games: CJ gains or loses weight based on food consumption and exercise, weapon skills improve with use, stamina builds through running, and relationships with supporting characters develop through activities. These systems added a layer of depth that defined the era.
The Main Story
Framed by corrupt LSPD officers (C.R.A.S.H.) for a murder he did not commit, CJ must navigate gang warfare, betray and reclaim alliances, and ultimately confront a massive government conspiracy involving drug trafficking and a coming gang war across San Andreas. The story spans 100 missions across the state's three cities.
Secrets and 100%
Achieving 100% completion requires: completing all 100 story missions, finding all 100 tags, 50 snapshots, 50 horseshoes, 50 oysters, completing all sub-missions (driving school, flight school, etc.), and finishing every side mission chain. The reward is $1 million and a new vehicle at CJ's home.