Decoding the Grand Finale: What is the End of GTA 5?
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The end of Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5) is a fascinatingly complex concept, primarily because it doesn’t have one definitive ending. Instead, the game presents players with a crucial choice that dictates how the story concludes. Essentially, the “end” is reached after completing the main storyline missions, culminating in Franklin Clinton having to decide the fate of either Michael De Santa or Trevor Philips, or choosing a third, more challenging option where everyone survives.
If Franklin chooses to follow Devin Weston’s orders, he’ll have to eliminate either Michael or Trevor. Choosing to kill Trevor leads to a mission where Franklin and Michael chase and kill Trevor. Choosing to kill Michael leads to a confrontation where Franklin kills Michael. However, there is a third option known as “Deathwish”, the canon ending, where Franklin chooses to team up with Michael and Trevor to take down their enemies, resulting in a high-octane final mission that ensures the survival of all three protagonists. After choosing any of the three options, players will be able to free roam. Depending on what option was chosen, the players may no longer be able to play as Trevor or Michael.
The chosen path not only impacts the narrative but also the gameplay experience post-credits. The relationships between the characters, the availability of specific missions, and the overall tone of the game world are all influenced by the player’s ultimate decision. Therefore, the “end” of GTA 5 is more of a branching narrative conclusion than a singular, fixed point. Now, let’s explore some frequently asked questions surrounding the ending of this iconic game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the GTA 5 Ending
1. Does GTA 5 end after killing Trevor?
Yes, killing Trevor is one possible ending to the main story of GTA 5. However, it’s not the only option. After this ending, there are no further story missions. Players can continue to explore the open world and complete side activities, but the core narrative has concluded.
2. Are there alternate endings in GTA 5?
Absolutely. Instead of killing Trevor, players can choose to kill Michael, or select the “Deathwish” option, which involves saving both characters and taking revenge on their common enemies. Each choice leads to a distinct finale.
3. What happens after Trevor’s death in GTA 5?
After Trevor’s death, the player can no longer control him. His assets, including his safehouses and vehicles, are also lost. The story concludes with Michael and Franklin continuing their lives, albeit with a strained relationship.
4. What is the best ending choice in GTA 5?
From a narrative perspective, the “Deathwish” ending (Option C) is widely considered the best. This is because it’s the canon ending where all three protagonists survive, allowing players to continue experiencing the game with the full trio. It’s also arguably the most satisfying conclusion to the characters’ individual arcs. This is further supported by events in GTA Online. Learn more about the impact of video games on storytelling at the Games Learning Society website, https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
5. What is the bad ending in GTA 5?
The ending where Franklin kills Michael (Option B) is often considered the “bad ending.” This is because Michael is the primary catalyst for the events of the game, and his death removes a significant character from the equation. Furthermore, it’s a bleak conclusion that undermines the themes of friendship and redemption present in the narrative.
6. Can you play as Trevor after killing him?
No, if you choose to kill Trevor, you cannot play as him again in that playthrough. He is permanently removed from the game world, and you’ll only be able to control Michael and Franklin. To play as Trevor again, you would need to start a new game or load a previous save.
7. What happens if Franklin chooses Deathwish?
If Franklin chooses Deathwish (Option C), the game triggers the mission “The Third Way”. In this mission, the trio teams up to fight against the FIB, Merryweather, and other enemies who are after them. This culminates in a final showdown, where they eliminate their threats and secure their survival.
8. Can Michael and Franklin hang out after killing Trevor?
The short answer is no. If you kill Trevor, Michael will cease contact with Franklin. This eliminates the possibility of hanging out with Michael in the post-game free roam. The only way to maintain a friendship with both is to choose the Deathwish ending.
9. Does GTA 5 have a canon ending?
Yes, the Deathwish ending (Option C) is considered the canon ending of GTA 5. This is supported by references to Trevor in GTA Online, which serves as both a prequel and a sequel to the events of the main game. His continued presence in GTA Online confirms his survival in the overarching GTA universe.
10. What happens if Franklin kills Chop?
While it’s possible to injure Chop in GTA 5, he cannot be permanently killed. Like other essential NPCs, Chop will eventually return to the game after a short period, ensuring that Franklin’s canine companion remains a constant presence.
11. What is the last mission of Franklin?
The last mission of Franklin depends on the choice the player makes at the end. If the player selects the “Deathwish” ending, then the last mission is titled, The Third Way.
12. Does killing Trevor give you more money?
Choosing to kill Trevor does impact the financial outcome. If Trevor is killed, Franklin and Michael split his share of the final heist. However, the Deathwish ending is actually the best option for keeping the most money, as all three characters survive and retain their shares.
13. Can I still play Michael after killing him?
No. Once Michael has been killed, you will not be able to play as him anymore. You will be able to play as Franklin and Trevor. To play as Michael, you will need to start the game over.
14. Is Franklin the son of CJ?
This is a popular fan theory, but there is no conclusive evidence within the game to support the claim that Franklin is the son of CJ from GTA: San Andreas. While there are some similarities between the characters, Rockstar Games has not officially confirmed any connection between them.
15. What happens when you complete GTA 5 100 percent?
Completing GTA 5 to 100% unlocks several rewards and secrets. These include a unique T-shirt for Franklin, the ability to witness UFO sightings at specific locations, and the availability of a hidden Strangers and Freaks mission called “The Last One.” It also signifies a complete exploration and mastery of the game world.
In conclusion, the end of GTA 5 is not a simple, linear event. It is a complex and branching narrative conclusion that is shaped by the player’s choices. Whether you opt to kill Trevor or Michael, or choose the “Deathwish” option and save them both, the ending of GTA 5 is a memorable and impactful experience that underscores the game’s themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption. This open-ended approach to storytelling adds to the game’s replayability and its enduring appeal to players worldwide.