Grand Theft Auto 5: Unraveling All the Endings
Grand Theft Auto 5 presents players with three distinct endings. These are not merely cosmetic variations; they are branching narratives determined by a crucial choice Franklin Clinton must make during the game’s climax. These choices drastically impact the fates of the three protagonists – Franklin himself, Michael De Santa, and Trevor Philips. Understanding these endings and their consequences is crucial for any GTA 5 player.
The Endings Explained
The game builds to a tense situation where Franklin is pressured to eliminate either Michael or Trevor. Each choice leads to a unique ending, complete with its own cutscenes and consequences. Let’s delve into each ending in detail:
Ending A: “Something Sensible” (Killing Trevor)
In this ending, Franklin follows Steve Haines and Devin Weston’s instructions to assassinate Trevor. Franklin enlists Michael’s help, and together they track down Trevor. The ensuing chase culminates in a fiery confrontation where Trevor is killed.
- Consequences: Trevor’s death significantly impacts the game world. He is permanently removed from the game, making him unplayable. All of Trevor’s assets, missions, and unique encounters are no longer accessible. While Franklin and Michael split Trevor’s share of the final heist money, the cost is the loss of a key character and a portion of the game’s content. Relationships are also damaged.
Ending B: “The Time’s Come” (Killing Michael)
This ending sees Franklin tasked with killing Michael. Again pressured by Devin Weston, Franklin carries out the grim task. He meets Michael, and after a tense conversation, chases him to an oil refinery. Franklin ultimately pushes Michael off a structure to his death.
- Consequences: Similar to Trevor’s fate, Michael’s death removes him from the game. He becomes unplayable, and certain side missions and interactions are no longer available. While his family receives his share of the final heist money, Franklin is left with nothing but the weight of his actions. Furthermore, relationships are also damaged in this ending.
Ending C: “Deathwish” (Saving Both Michael and Trevor)
This ending, often considered the canonical ending, offers a more satisfying conclusion. Franklin defies orders and chooses to save both Michael and Trevor. He enlists their help, and together they decide to fight back against their enemies: Steve Haines, Stretch, Wei Cheng, and Devin Weston. The trio unites to eliminate these antagonists, securing their freedom and wealth.
- Consequences: In this ending, all three protagonists survive and remain playable. They split the final heist money, ensuring everyone profits. “Deathwish” preserves the full scope of the game, allowing players to continue experiencing all the content related to each character. Their relationships are saved, and the three remain close.
Determining the “Best” Ending
While subjective, Ending C (“Deathwish”) is often regarded as the “best” ending for several reasons:
- Character Preservation: All three protagonists survive, allowing players to continue experiencing the game with their favorite characters.
- Canonical Status: Evidence in GTA Online suggests “Deathwish” is the canonical ending, aligning with the ongoing narrative of the GTA universe.
- Moral High Ground: Saving both Michael and Trevor presents a more morally satisfying outcome than eliminating them.
- Gameplay Continuity: Players retain access to all characters, missions, and content, maximizing their GTA 5 experience.
Ultimately, the “best” ending depends on player preference. However, the factors above make “Deathwish” the most popular and narratively fulfilling choice.
Saving Before the Decision
Before making the final choice, players are strongly advised to create a separate save file. This allows them to experience all three endings without replaying the entire game. Simply create a new save slot before undertaking the final mission and then reload that save after completing each ending.
FAQs: Unveiling More About GTA 5’s Endings
1. Is there a “true” ending to GTA 5?
Yes, while there are three endings, Option C: Deathwish is considered the canon ending. This is supported by references in GTA Online, where Trevor Philips is mentioned and plays a role.
2. What happens after killing Trevor in GTA 5?
After Trevor’s death, there are no further story missions. The game essentially ends, and you can no longer play as Trevor. His assets and missions are lost, and he and Franklin become alienated. You can load another save to replay other missions.
3. Can you play as Trevor after killing him?
No, once you choose to kill Trevor, he remains dead and unplayable for that playthrough. You would need to reload a previous save or start a new game to play as Trevor again.
4. What are the financial implications of each ending?
- Killing Trevor: Franklin and Michael split Trevor’s share of the final heist money.
- Killing Michael: Michael’s share goes to his family, and Franklin receives nothing.
- Deathwish: All three characters survive and split the final heist money, resulting in approximately $20 million each.
5. How do the character relationships change depending on the ending?
- Killing Trevor: Franklin and Michael remain friends, but Trevor is obviously gone.
- Killing Michael: Michael and Franklin become estranged as Franklin struggles to kill his friend and mentor.
- Deathwish: The friendship among the three characters continues.
6. What happens to Trevor’s assets if you kill him?
All of Trevor’s assets, including his safehouses, vehicles, and businesses, become inaccessible after his death.
7. Can you revive Trevor after killing him in GTA 5?
No, Trevor cannot be revived after being killed in GTA 5. The only way to restore him is to reload a previous save file before the decision was made.
8. Is killing Michael a good option in GTA 5?
From a gameplay perspective, killing Michael is arguably the worst option. You lose a playable character and receive no financial reward. The relationship damage also impacts the overall experience. It is considered the bad ending.
9. What is Ending B in GTA 5?
Ending B in GTA 5 is the one where Franklin follows Devin Weston’s orders and kills Michael. This ending is often regarded as the most depressing and unsatisfying.
10. How does GTA 5’s ending compare to other Grand Theft Auto games?
Many consider GTA 5 to have the “happiest” ending in the series, particularly if you choose the “Deathwish” option. Most other GTA games have more bittersweet or tragic conclusions.
11. What happens if Franklin chooses “Deathwish”?
Choosing “Deathwish” leads to a climactic battle where Franklin, Michael, and Trevor unite to defeat their common enemies. All three survive, and the story concludes on a more positive note.
12. How is Michael so rich in GTA 5?
Michael’s wealth stems from a deal he made with Agent Dave Norton, who helped him fake his death and enter witness protection in exchange for a cut of his illegally obtained money.
13. Can I hang out with Tracey after beating GTA 5?
No, Tracey is never available as a friend in GTA 5. Franklin, Michael, and Trevor can hang out with one another (depending on the ending you choose).
14. What can you do after beating GTA 5?
After completing the main story, players can still explore the open world, complete side missions, participate in various activities such as sports, races, and challenges, or simply cause mayhem.
15. What’s the significance of GTA Online in relation to GTA 5’s endings?
GTA Online references events from GTA 5, strongly suggesting that the “Deathwish” ending is canonical. This connection reinforces the idea that saving all three protagonists is the intended narrative path.
Exploring the diverse endings of GTA 5 enriches the gaming experience. By understanding the consequences of each choice, players can make informed decisions that align with their preferences and desired outcomes. The team at the Games Learning Society explores the educational aspects of games, including the choices and consequences that shape player experiences. To learn more, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.