Grand Theft Auto V: The Tracey Dilemma – What Happens When Michael Doesn’t Step In?
What happens if Michael doesn’t help Tracey in Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V)? Simply put, if Michael refuses to intervene in Tracey’s predicament, he’ll find a hefty sum of $22,000 deducted from his bank account. This money goes towards settling the score with some hired thugs Tracey has apparently engaged with to solve her problem. It’s a costly consequence of neglecting parental duties in the chaotic world of Los Santos! But, is that all that happens? Let’s delve deeper into the ramifications and explore everything related to Michael’s relationship with his dysfunctional family.
The Consequences of Neglect: More Than Just Money
While the immediate impact of refusing to help Tracey is a financial one, the ripple effects extend beyond mere dollars and cents. Ignoring Tracey’s plea has implications for Michael’s character arc, his relationships, and the overall narrative.
- Character Development: Choosing not to help Tracey reinforces Michael’s often-portrayed image as a detached and, at times, irresponsible father. It highlights the dysfunctional nature of the De Santa family, a recurring theme throughout the game. It also adds to the user experience, letting the gamer know that there are always consequences for their choices.
- Family Dynamics: The already strained relationship between Michael and Tracey takes another hit. This choice further alienates him from his daughter, fueling the existing tension and resentment within the family unit. Every choice the player makes affects the relationships between characters in the game.
- Missed Content: Refusing the mission means missing out on a potentially engaging side quest. While it might not be a critical story point, it offers an opportunity for gameplay, character interaction, and a bit of chaotic fun that GTA V is known for.
Essentially, ignoring Tracey’s situation underscores the core themes of GTA V – the breakdown of the American dream, dysfunctional families, and the consequences of choices. It’s a relatively minor consequence overall, but it contributes to the tapestry of the game’s narrative.
The Other Side of the Coin: Helping Tracey
Choosing to assist Tracey opens a side mission where Michael must locate and confront the individual threatening his daughter. This provides an opportunity for the player to engage in gameplay mechanics like driving, combat, and problem-solving. Tracey says she is at Vinewood Plaza. The guy isn’t there at the moment but they can drive around to find him.
This mission also offers insight into Tracey’s life and the kind of situations she finds herself in. It can be a humorous and action-packed detour from the main storyline, giving players a break from the heavier themes and offering a chance to flex their GTA skills.
Exploring the De Santa Family Dysfunction
The relationship between Michael and his children, Tracey and Jimmy, is a cornerstone of GTA V’s narrative. Their interactions are often marked by conflict, misunderstanding, and a general sense of unease. Understanding these dynamics provides context to the choices players make and their consequences.
- Michael’s Failings: Michael’s past life as a criminal and his struggles to adapt to a “normal” existence contribute significantly to the family’s problems. His controlling nature and inability to connect with his children on an emotional level create distance and resentment.
- Tracey’s Rebelliousness: Tracey’s pursuit of fame and her involvement in questionable activities are often seen as a reflection of her desire for attention and a rebellion against her parents’ perceived hypocrisy.
- Jimmy’s Apathy: Jimmy’s laziness, addiction to video games, and constant need for money highlight a lack of direction and purpose in his life, arguably fueled by his parents’ own dysfunctional behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the De Santa Family
Here are some frequently asked questions related to Tracey, the De Santa family, and the consequences of your actions in GTA V:
What happens if Michael doesn’t help Amanda?
If Michael refuses to help Amanda when she’s in trouble, a $5,000 fee will be taken from his account for “lawyer fees.” Choosing to help her initiates a mission where you rescue her from a police car.
Can you hang out with Tracey in GTA 5?
Unfortunately, you cannot hang out with Tracey like you can with other characters like Franklin or Lamar. She is a static character in that regard.
What happens if Michael doesn’t save Jimmy?
If Michael doesn’t intervene when Jimmy is kidnapped, he will have to pay $9,500 in ransom money to secure his son’s release.
Can Trevor hang out with Jimmy after killing Michael?
No, Trevor cannot hang out with Jimmy after killing Michael. The remaining family members become hostile. Choosing Ending C is the only way to hang out with both Franklin and either Michael or Trevor, respectively.
Can Franklin hang out with Jimmy after Michael’s death?
Yes, Franklin can hang out with Jimmy after Michael’s death, especially if Trevor was the one who killed Michael. Jimmy is unaware of Franklin’s involvement in Trevor’s fate if you choose to kill Trevor.
Who is older, Tracey or Jimmy?
Tracey is older than Jimmy. According to the GTA wiki, Tracey was born in 1991 (making her 22 during the game’s events), while Jimmy was born in 1993 (making him 20).
Does Franklin ever meet Tracey?
Yes, Franklin meets Tracey. There is a random encounter after the final mission where Franklin picks up Tracey from Michael’s house. Trevor then follows them.
Why didn’t Trevor warn Michael?
Trevor, despite his erratic behavior, is fiercely loyal to the people he considers family. He wouldn’t betray Michael, even if he has his own issues with him.
What happens if you choose to save Michael?
In the “something sensible” ending where Franklin has a choice to save Michael or let him fall, Michael still falls to his death regardless of the choice. The game ends with Franklin calling Lamar.
Why does Amanda hate Michael?
Amanda and Michael’s relationship is strained due to various factors. She disapproves of Tracey and Jimmy’s lifestyles and constantly argues with Michael. She also feels trapped in their marriage.
Can you save Wooly in Amanda?
In the interactive movie “Amanda the Adventurer,” Wooly’s fate is sealed regardless of your choices. He does not survive the story.
What happens if Trevor kills Michael?
If Trevor kills Michael in the “something sensational” ending, Franklin will not take it well.
Can Michael get a girlfriend in GTA 5?
Yes, Michael, like Franklin and Trevor, can find a girlfriend in GTA 5 through various encounters and side missions. These relationships are more casual companionships.
Is Amanda cheating on Michael?
Yes, Amanda is seen cheating on Michael with her yoga instructor, Fabian, leading to further conflict in their relationship.
How old is Jimmy in story mode?
Jimmy is 20 years old during the events of GTA 5’s story mode.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to help Tracey in GTA V comes down to player choice. Each path results in different outcomes, both minor and major. Remember, the choices you make have consequences in Los Santos, and navigating the De Santa family drama is all part of the experience! This kind of intricate storytelling and gameplay makes titles like GTA V great tools for learning. You can learn more about the intersection of games and learning at the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.