Which Ending is Canon in GTA? Unraveling the Grand Theft Auto Timeline
The question of which ending is canon in the Grand Theft Auto universe is a complex one, largely because the series, while interconnected, spans multiple timelines and universes. This is particularly pertinent for Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), which offers players a choice of three dramatically different conclusions. The short answer is that the “Deathwish” ending, option C, is considered the canonical ending of GTA 5. This is explicitly supported by Rockstar Games and corroborated by events and references in GTA Online. Let’s delve deeper into why this is the case and explore the complexities of canonical endings across the broader GTA series.
The Canonical Ending of GTA 5: The “Deathwish”
The climax of GTA 5 presents Franklin with three stark choices: to kill Trevor, kill Michael, or attempt a dangerous gambit to save them both, the Deathwish option. This choice, which sees all three protagonists working together to fend off their adversaries and triumph, is considered the official canonical ending. This is not just fan speculation; it’s backed by the game’s developers, Rockstar, and supported by narrative cues in the following GTA Online updates.
Why “Deathwish” Is Canon
- GTA Online References: GTA Online, which serves as a prequel and sequel to the events of GTA 5, constantly references Trevor Phillips. His presence and actions within the online world directly imply that he survived the main game. If either of the other two endings were canon, Trevor wouldn’t be the rambunctious character we know in the online universe. The persistent references to all three protagonists working together in heists and other missions in GTA Online further solidify the “Deathwish” option.
- Character Development: From a narrative perspective, the “Deathwish” ending aligns best with the character arcs of Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. After all they went through, it would be out of character for any of them to turn on each other, especially considering the strong bonds that were formed. The Deathwish ending is the only ending where these bonds are preserved.
- Rockstar’s Confirmation: Although not directly stated within the game’s narrative itself, Rockstar Games has tacitly confirmed the “Deathwish” ending as the true conclusion. This was done through the continuous content updates and events in GTA Online, as well as comments made in interviews.
What About the Other Endings?
The other two endings, option A (killing Trevor) and option B (killing Michael), are valid for the individual player experience but are ultimately deemed non-canonical. While these endings provide emotional and financial consequences, they are not part of the established timeline of the GTA narrative. Choosing either of these eliminates one of the core characters and limits the possibilities for future GTA storylines and content, as confirmed by the ongoing character roles in GTA Online.
Canonical Endings in Other GTA Games
While GTA 5’s canonical ending is relatively clear, things are more ambiguous in other installments. Here’s a brief overview:
GTA 4: Revenge vs. Deal
Grand Theft Auto IV features two possible endings: Revenge and Deal. In the Revenge ending, Niko Bellic’s cousin, Roman, survives, but Kate McReary dies. In the Deal ending, the opposite occurs. While Rockstar Games has never explicitly confirmed which ending is canon, the Revenge ending is strongly hinted to be the canonical one due to several in-game elements that align with it. The most notable is the implication that Niko and Roman are still closely involved in each other’s lives after the events of the main story, which would make more sense if they were both alive.
GTA: The 3D Universe
Games within the 3D Universe, including GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas, do not have branching storylines and singular endings. Thus the canonical ending is essentially just the ending. However, the interconnectivity of characters between these games, such as Claude from GTA 3 appearing in San Andreas, establishes a shared timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if you choose to kill Trevor in GTA 5?
If you choose to kill Trevor (Option A), you will be able to continue playing with Michael and Franklin, but you will lose access to Trevor’s character. You will also receive additional money from the hit. Trevor’s assets and side missions become unavailable.
2. What happens if you choose to kill Michael in GTA 5?
If you choose to kill Michael (Option B), you’ll continue playing with Franklin and Trevor. Michael’s assets will be given to his family, and you will no longer be able to use him as a playable character. You’ll also face some storyline related consequences from other characters in the game.
3. Does the “Deathwish” ending provide more money?
No, the money you receive from the heist is split equally among Michael, Franklin, and Trevor regardless of the ending. However, killing Trevor or Michael results in slightly different payout from Lester. Ultimately all ending outcomes result in the same final amount of money.
4. Can you play as Trevor after killing him?
No, once Trevor is killed, he becomes unavailable as a playable character, and you won’t be able to access his side missions and other assets. This is why the “Deathwish” ending is the best option for both story and full completion.
5. Why does Trevor forgive Michael?
Trevor’s initial grudge against Michael stems from the coverup of Brad’s death. However, the two were forced to work together again. Over time he grudgingly accepted that he needed Michael’s help, leading to a sort of reconciliation.
6. Is San Andreas canon to GTA 5?
Yes, all Grand Theft Auto games share a canonical universe, but not necessarily the same timeline or characters. The games in the series are set in different time periods, so there is an over arching timeline rather than a direct continuation.
7. What happens when GTA 5’s story ends?
After the final cutscene, you can freely explore the world, complete side missions, and access the online component of the game, GTA Online.
8. Is GTA Advance part of the main canon?
Yes, despite its top-down perspective, GTA Advance is considered part of the series’ 3D Universe canon. It shares continuity with games like GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas.
9. How many universes are in the Grand Theft Auto franchise?
The Grand Theft Auto franchise is divided into different universes. The main ones are the 2D Universe which comprises GTA 1 and 2, the 3D Universe (GTA 3, Vice City, San Andreas) and the HD Universe (GTA IV, Episodes from Liberty City, GTA V, and GTA Online).
10. Why did Michael headbutt Franklin?
Michael’s headbutt on Franklin is a reaction during a stressful situation. It’s a sign of his mental and emotional instability and the pressure he was under rather than any intended malice.
11. Is GTA 5 a happy ending?
Yes, compared to other entries in the series, GTA 5’s “Deathwish” ending is considered a happy ending, where all main protagonists survive. The endings where one of them dies is considered a bittersweet or sad one.
12. What is the significance of the Deathwish ending in GTA 5?
The “Deathwish” ending is significant as it allows all three protagonists to survive and continue their stories, as well as the continued updates in GTA Online. This sets it apart from the series’ traditional bittersweet or tragic endings.
13. Can you 100% GTA 5 if you kill Trevor?
No, if you choose to kill Trevor, you will no longer be able to complete all of his side missions and assets. Thus, it’s impossible to achieve 100% completion in that save file.
14. What happened to Niko Bellic after GTA IV?
It is hinted that Niko Bellic, the protagonist of GTA IV, gave up his life of crime and retired. This is referenced in GTA V, suggesting he is living a normal life.
15. Why did Ryder betray CJ in San Andreas?
Ryder’s betrayal was driven by greed and a desire for power. He became involved in the murder of CJ’s mother and sought the life of luxury by aligning himself with Big Smoke’s drug dealing ambitions.
Conclusion
The canonical ending of GTA 5 is undeniably the “Deathwish” option, where all three protagonists survive and continue their criminal careers. This decision is backed by Rockstar Games and supported by events within GTA Online. While the series presents players with various choices, it’s important to acknowledge the developers’ intentions to keep the overall series timeline consistent. In the grand scheme of the series, knowing which ending is canon is a crucial step to understanding the overall world of Grand Theft Auto.