Does GTA Online Come With GTA Story Mode?
The short and direct answer is no, GTA Online does not come with the GTA V story mode. While both are part of the same overall Grand Theft Auto V package, they are distinct and separate experiences. When you purchase Grand Theft Auto V, you are buying access to both the single-player story mode and the online multiplayer mode, GTA Online. However, having access to one does not mean you have access to the other without owning the base game. Think of them as two sides of the same coin – they are interlinked by the purchase, but operate as different games. Let’s dive deeper into how this all works.
Understanding the GTA V Package
When you buy GTA V, whether on PC, PlayStation, or Xbox, you’re essentially buying a two-for-one deal. You get access to the full, narrative-driven story mode, where you play as Michael, Franklin, and Trevor in a rich, open-world setting. This mode is a classic single-player experience with missions, heists, and a detailed plot to follow. You also get access to GTA Online, a separate online world where you can create your own character and interact with up to 30 other players. GTA Online isn’t just an add-on; it’s a fully fleshed-out online experience with its own evolving storyline, missions, and activities.
A Separate but Connected Experience
It’s crucial to understand that GTA Online is not a mode within the story mode. Instead, it’s a completely distinct entity that requires the base GTA V game to play. You can’t just buy GTA Online and expect to have access to the story. Similarly, owning only the story mode won’t grant you access to the online mode. The base game is the key that unlocks both experiences.
How Do I Access Both Modes?
After purchasing and installing GTA V, you will typically be presented with a menu when you start the game. From there, you can choose to begin the single-player story mode or jump directly into the GTA Online world. It’s worth noting that you might need to complete the single-player prologue before you’re able to access GTA Online for the first time. This is essentially a tutorial section that helps you get familiar with the game’s mechanics and world.
Why the Confusion?
The confusion often arises because GTA Online is so expansive and popular that it can feel like a separate title in itself. Additionally, Rockstar Games frequently updates GTA Online with new content, often leading people to think it’s a standalone product. However, to get access to this constantly evolving world of online mayhem you first need the GTA V base game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the relationship between GTA Online and the story mode, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Do I need to complete the story mode to play GTA Online?
No, you don’t need to complete the story mode to play GTA Online. While you might need to play through a short prologue of the story to unlock the online mode for the first time, you don’t have to finish the entire story. You can jump into GTA Online relatively quickly after starting the game.
2. Is GTA Online free?
GTA Online is not completely free. While it is included with your purchase of the base game GTA V, you still need to buy GTA V to gain access to the online mode. Once you own GTA V, you can access the online portion of the game at no additional cost unless you choose to buy shark cards or subscribe to the GTA+ service.
3. Can I play GTA Online without owning GTA V?
No, you cannot play GTA Online without owning GTA V. The online mode is packaged as part of GTA V, so purchasing only one is not possible. If you intend to play GTA Online, the base game is required.
4. What is the difference between GTA V and GTA Online?
GTA V is a single-player, story-driven open-world game where you play as three different characters. In contrast, GTA Online is an online multiplayer experience where you create your own character and interact with other players in a shared world. Think of the former as an RPG, while the latter is a freemode multiplayer experience.
5. Is there a monthly fee for GTA Online?
There is no mandatory monthly fee for accessing and playing GTA Online. However, Rockstar Games does offer a premium subscription service called GTA+ which gives players exclusive benefits for a monthly fee. This subscription is completely optional.
6. Can I play GTA Online story?
GTA Online has a storyline of its own, but it is not the same as the single-player story in GTA V. The GTA Online storyline is a continually evolving experience, with new content being released over time. The single player story does not extend into the online mode and vice versa.
7. Can I play GTA Online offline?
No, GTA Online requires an internet connection to play. It is exclusively an online multiplayer mode and thus, cannot be played offline. If you intend to play this mode you will require an internet connection.
8. How much does GTA Online cost?
GTA Online is not sold separately it is included when you purchase GTA V. However, GTA V as a package can be purchased for a price which varies depending on the platform and store. GTA Online does not have an independent price tag.
9. What happens when I finish the GTA V story mode?
After completing the single-player story in GTA V, you are free to continue exploring the world, completing side missions, and generally having fun in freeroam. You can also switch to GTA Online for a different experience. The two modes offer a lot of replayability, and the single-player story is only part of the total offering.
10. Can I rob banks in GTA V story mode?
Yes, you can rob banks in the single-player story of GTA V as part of the main mission progression. However, you can’t just walk into a bank and rob it whenever you want. In GTA Online, you can also rob banks through heists which are co-op activities with other players.
11. Can I buy houses in GTA V story mode?
You cannot buy houses in the traditional sense within the single-player GTA V story mode. However, each of the main characters can acquire properties as part of the game and the main storyline which can then be accessed after certain missions.
12. How does progression in GTA Online work?
In GTA Online, you progress by completing missions, participating in various activities, earning money, and purchasing items. There is no set storyline that you’re forced to complete, and the online world is ever-evolving. The game is designed around a persistent world with many freeroam activities.
13. How much does GTA 6 likely to cost?
There is no confirmed price for GTA 6 at the time of writing, but based on trends, it is expected to be priced at $69.99 or higher, especially for deluxe or collector’s editions. This is just an estimate and could be subject to change.
14. Why am I having trouble connecting to GTA Online?
Issues connecting to GTA Online can stem from various causes, often related to your network settings or your ISP’s connection. A simple solution is to try a different network, such as a mobile hotspot, or use a VPN to change your IP address. You should troubleshoot your internet connection as a first step if you are having issues.
15. Is GTA Plus worth it?
Whether GTA+ is worth it depends on how much you play GTA Online. It offers great benefits for beginners who are just starting out and may need help. However, for experienced players who have accumulated a lot of resources, the subscription may not provide as much value. It’s something to think about based on how much you play and how much you want the additional items.
In Conclusion
To summarize, GTA Online is a significant part of the GTA V package, but it does not include access to the story mode. Both modes require the base game, GTA V, to play, and offer distinct but equally engaging gameplay experiences. Understanding this difference is key to enjoying all that this game has to offer.