Are Strangers and Freaks Missions Required in GTA 5? The Ultimate Guide
The burning question on every Grand Theft Auto V completionist’s mind: Are Strangers and Freaks missions required? The short answer is yes, some are. While not all of the quirky encounters with Los Santos’ oddballs are essential, completing a specific subset of these missions is mandatory if you’re aiming for that coveted 100% completion status. Let’s dive into the specifics, separating fact from fiction and guiding you through the essential Strangers and Freaks encounters.
Understanding the Strangers and Freaks Landscape
Grand Theft Auto V is a sprawling open-world adventure, filled with distractions and side activities that can easily consume hours of your time. Among these are the Strangers and Freaks missions, represented on the map by a question mark icon specific to each protagonist. These are optional encounters, often comedic or bizarre, that add depth and color to the game world. However, they are not all created equal, and their importance varies significantly depending on your goals.
These missions are extra little adventures you can partake in throughout GTA 5. These missions become especially important if you want to 100% the game. You’ll need to earn the gold medals from specific Strangers and Freaks missions to obtain this goal.
The 100% Completion Factor: What Counts?
To achieve 100% completion in GTA V, you need to tick off a wide range of boxes, including completing the main story, participating in various activities, and, crucially, finishing a designated set of Strangers and Freaks missions. The game requires you to complete 20 specific Strangers & Freaks side-quests to achieve a 100% completion. Remember, it’s not just about the quantity; it’s about the specific missions you undertake.
It’s crucial to understand that simply completing any 20 Strangers and Freaks missions won’t cut it. The game dictates which encounters contribute to your completion percentage. The Strangers and Freaks missions are generally available to Franklin rather than any 20: Tonya (5 Towing missions) and Beverley (5 Paparazzo missions) are a must.
The Essential 20: Franklin’s Key Encounters
The majority of the required Strangers and Freaks missions are linked to Franklin. Here’s a breakdown of the key characters and their associated missions that you must complete for 100% completion:
- Tonya (5 Towing Missions): These missions involve assisting Tonya with her somewhat chaotic towing duties. They’re straightforward and relatively easy to complete, making them a good starting point.
- Beverley (5 Paparazzo Missions): Beverley is an eccentric paparazzo obsessed with fame. These missions involve taking pictures of celebrities in various compromising situations.
- Barry (2 Missions): Encounters with Barry are… unique. They are mandatory.
- Hao (1 Mission): Just the one encounter is required.
- Mary-Ann (1 Mission): She will challenge Franklin to a race.
- Omega (2 Missions): These missions involves finding 50 spaceship parts.
- Dreyfuss (1 Mission): Involves tracking down a celebrity killer.
- Minute Men (3 Missions): This character asks Franklin for help.
Missable Missions: A Word of Caution
Some Strangers and Freaks missions are time-sensitive and can be missed if you don’t complete them within their designated windows. Pay close attention to the map and your phone, as these encounters might disappear if you progress too far in the main story or spend too much in-game time without addressing them.
Strangers and Freaks missions add depth and color to the game world.
These optional encounters, often comedic or bizarre, add depth and color to the game world. Whether you’re aiming for that coveted 100% completion status or simply looking to enrich your gameplay experience, you’ll find these missions entertaining.
FAQs: Your Strangers and Freaks Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the role of Strangers and Freaks missions in GTA V:
1. How many Strangers and Freaks missions are there in total?
There are a total of 60 Strangers & Freaks side-quests.
2. Do I need to complete all Strangers and Freaks missions for 100% completion?
No, you only need to complete 20 specific Strangers and Freaks missions, primarily those associated with Franklin.
3. Which Strangers and Freaks missions are required for 100%?
The required missions primarily include Tonya’s towing missions, Beverley’s Paparazzo missions, Barry, Hao, Mary-Ann, Omega, Dreyfuss, and the Minute Men. See details above.
4. Are there any missable Strangers and Freaks missions?
Yes. There are time sensitive ones, so you need to finish them once they appear on the map.
5. Can I complete Strangers and Freaks missions after finishing the main story?
Yes, all Strangers and Freaks missions remain available after completing the main story.
6. Do I need gold medals on all Strangers and Freaks missions for 100%?
No, you only need gold medals on the main story missions and certain activities, not all Strangers and Freaks missions.
7. What happens if I fail a Strangers and Freaks mission?
You can usually retry the mission. If it’s a missable mission, failing it might cause it to disappear.
8. Can I skip Strangers and Freaks missions if I don’t want to do them?
Yes, you can skip the Strangers and Freaks missions by navigating to the “job list” on the phone.
9. Are Strangers and Freaks missions different for each character?
Yes, each of the three protagonists – Franklin, Michael, and Trevor – has their own unique set of Strangers and Freaks missions. However, only Franklin’s are required for 100% completion.
10. What are the rewards for completing Strangers and Freaks missions?
Rewards vary depending on the mission but can include cash, unlocking new abilities or vehicles, and progressing towards 100% completion.
11. Do Strangers and Freaks missions affect the main story?
No, Strangers and Freaks missions are optional side quests and do not directly impact the main story’s progression.
12. Is there a guide to help me find and complete all Strangers and Freaks missions?
Yes, numerous online guides, videos, and walkthroughs can assist you in locating and completing each Strangers and Freaks mission.
13. Are there any cheats to skip Strangers and Freaks missions?
There are no cheat codes to skip the Stranger Missions, however you can navigate to the “job list” on the phone.
14. Can I replay Strangers and Freaks missions?
Yes, but once you have finished the missions.
15. What is the “Last One” Strangers and Freaks mission?
The “Last One” Strangers and Freaks mission is a side quest that unlocks once the player has completed the game to 100%, although it may not pop up immediately. Keep playing and eventually the question mark will show up in the Mt. Chiliad forest. Go to the question mark as Franklin and you will run into a hunter who is hunting The Last One.
The Importance of Optionality and Player Choice
While some Strangers and Freaks missions are required for 100% completion, the beauty of GTA V lies in its optionality. Players can choose to engage with these encounters at their own pace, experiencing the game in a way that suits their individual preferences. This freedom of choice is a cornerstone of the Grand Theft Auto experience, allowing players to immerse themselves in the world of Los Santos in their own unique way. The optionality also highlights the possibilities within game-based learning and game design. This is a key focus of organizations like the Games Learning Society. You can visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Conclusion: Embrace the Weirdness, Aim for Completion
Ultimately, while the path to 100% completion in GTA V requires a strategic approach to Strangers and Freaks missions, the experience is best enjoyed with a sense of curiosity and adventure. Embrace the weirdness, explore the quirky corners of Los Santos, and you’ll find that these encounters add a layer of depth and humor to an already unforgettable gaming experience. Now get out there and complete those missions!