How Many Endings Does GTA V Have?
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Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) offers players a choice, a pivotal decision that dramatically alters the fate of its three protagonists. Ultimately, the game features three distinct endings, each with significant consequences for the characters and the overall narrative. These endings diverge based on the player’s choice as Franklin Clinton when confronted with a life-or-death ultimatum. Understanding these endings is crucial for any GTA V enthusiast, as they profoundly impact the game’s overall experience and legacy.
Delving into the Three Fates of Los Santos
The game masterfully builds tension, culminating in a moment where Franklin must choose between eliminating either Michael De Santa or Trevor Philips, or defying orders and attempting to save both. This decision is not merely a plot device; it’s a core element of GTA V’s exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the dark underbelly of the criminal world. Let’s break down each ending.
Ending A: Killing Trevor
In this grim scenario, Franklin succumbs to the pressure from Steve Haines and Dave Norton to eliminate Trevor. Believing Trevor to be too volatile and dangerous, they task Franklin with his assassination. Michael, reluctantly, assists in the act. This ending results in Trevor’s death. He is lured to an oil field under the pretense of a meeting and is eventually killed by Franklin, with Michael providing the final blow.
Consequences of Ending A:
- Trevor is permanently unplayable.
- Michael and Franklin split Trevor’s share of the final heist.
- While Michael and Franklin continue their friendship, there’s an underlying tension due to the betrayal.
- Trevor’s assets and side missions are lost.
Ending B: Killing Michael
Alternatively, Franklin can choose to kill Michael, succumbing to Devin Weston’s orders. Weston, seeking revenge against Michael for his past transgressions, manipulates Franklin into carrying out the deed. This ending results in Michael’s death. Franklin, after a chase, confronts Michael and throws him from a structure, leading to his demise.
Consequences of Ending B:
- Michael is permanently unplayable.
- Michael’s share of the final heist goes to his family, leaving Franklin with nothing.
- Franklin’s relationship with Amanda and Jimmy (Michael’s family) is irrevocably damaged.
- This ending is widely considered the “bad ending” due to the negative impact on the characters and Franklin’s personal gain.
Ending C: Deathwish (Saving Everyone)
The third option, often referred to as “Deathwish”, involves Franklin refusing to kill either Michael or Trevor. Instead, he seeks their help to fight back against those who are trying to control them. This is considered the “canon” ending and the most satisfying conclusion for many players.
Consequences of Ending C:
- All three protagonists survive.
- They unite against their enemies, including Steve Haines, Devin Weston, and the Triads.
- Each character receives a significant share (approximately $20 million) from the final heist.
- The dynamic between the three characters remains intact, allowing players to continue exploring the world with all of them.
- This ending is considered the “happy ending” of GTA V.
Why Deathwish is Considered the Best Ending
While all three endings are valid and offer different perspectives on the story, “Deathwish” (Ending C) stands out as the most popular and narratively satisfying. Here’s why:
- Character Preservation: It allows players to continue playing with all three main characters, preserving the unique dynamics and gameplay opportunities that each one offers.
- Canon Status: Rockstar Games has subtly indicated through GTA Online that “Deathwish” is the canon ending, with references to Trevor’s continued existence.
- Thematic Resonance: It reinforces the themes of friendship, loyalty, and defiance against corrupt forces, aligning with the core values that the characters, despite their flaws, ultimately represent.
- Financial Reward: All three characters benefit financially, making it the most equitable outcome.
- Narrative Closure: It provides a sense of closure and justice, as the protagonists overcome their adversaries and emerge victorious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About GTA V Endings
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide even more insight into the endings of GTA V:
1. Which GTA V ending is the “true” ending?
Option C: Deathwish is widely regarded as the canon ending. GTA Online references Trevor after the events of GTA V, supporting this claim.
2. What happens if I kill Trevor?
If you choose to kill Trevor, he dies permanently and becomes unplayable. You also lose access to his assets and side missions. Furthermore, Michael and Franklin will split his share of the heist money.
3. What happens if I kill Michael?
If you choose to kill Michael, he dies permanently and becomes unplayable. His share of the heist money goes to his family. This ending is generally considered the worst due to the negative consequences for Franklin and the overall story.
4. Can I replay the endings of GTA V?
Yes, you can replay any of the three endings by using the replay mission option in the game menu. This allows you to experience all the different outcomes without starting a new game.
5. Does GTA V end after killing Trevor or Michael?
Yes, killing either Trevor or Michael concludes the main story. There are no further story missions after either of these events. You can continue to explore the world and complete side activities, but the main narrative arc is finished.
6. How much money do you get in the Deathwish ending?
In the Deathwish ending, all three characters survive, and each receives approximately $20 million from the final heist.
7. Can I still hang out with Michael or Trevor after killing one of them?
No, if you kill either Michael or Trevor, you cannot hang out with the survivor. Their relationship with Franklin is damaged beyond repair.
8. Is there a way to “unkill” Trevor or Michael?
No, the only way to reverse the death of Trevor or Michael is to reload a previous save before making the fateful decision.
9. What are the consequences of choosing the “bad ending”?
The “bad ending” (killing Michael) results in Franklin receiving no money from the heist and damaging his relationships with Michael’s family. It’s generally considered the least rewarding and most depressing outcome.
10. What should I do after beating GTA V?
After beating GTA V, you can explore the open world, complete side missions, participate in various activities like golfing, tennis, and racing, or replay missions. There’s plenty to do even after the main story is over.
11. Is “The Big Score” the last mission in GTA V?
Yes, “The Big Score” is the last heist and main mission in GTA V. It’s the culmination of the protagonists’ criminal endeavors and sets the stage for the final choice.
12. Does Trevor forgive Michael in GTA V?
Yes, in the Deathwish ending, Trevor eventually forgives Michael despite their tumultuous history. This reconciliation is a key element of the happy ending.
13. Is it possible to save cars as Trevor?
Yes, you can save cars as Trevor. Each of the three main characters has their own garages where they can store and save vehicles.
14. Can you switch between the characters after the ending?
If you choose the Deathwish ending, you can switch between all three characters even after completing the game. This is not possible if you choose to kill either Michael or Trevor.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and narrative?
For those interested in learning more about game design, narrative structure, and the impact of choices in video games, the Games Learning Society offers valuable resources and insights. Visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org to explore the intersection of games and education.
Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely
The three endings of GTA V offer players a unique opportunity to shape the narrative and determine the fate of its characters. While each ending provides a different perspective on the story, the Deathwish ending stands out as the most rewarding and satisfying conclusion, preserving the core relationships and offering a sense of closure. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but remember to consider the consequences before making your decision in Los Santos.