- Rockstar has released a major update for the GTA Trilogy.
- The update adds a "Classic Lighting" option that recreates PS2-era visual atmosphere.
- There are also numerous gameplay improvements including run-and-gun mechanics for all weapons.
Amid the ongoing slurry of rumors and excitement for GTA 6, Rockstar Games decided to touch up its legacy too. The company has silently released a major update for Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition, transforming the once-troubled remaster collection. This unexpected release brings substantial changes that fans have been requesting since the trilogy’s rocky launch.
GTA Trilogy Update: What’s New?
The most notable improvement comes in the form of a new “Classic Lighting” option, which fundamentally changes how these remastered games look. When activated, each game recaptures the distinct visual style that made the PS2 originals so memorable. The introduction of fog effects does more than just please nostalgic fans – it actually helps restore the games’ sense of scale by naturally limiting view distance.
The update fixes more than just the looks. Players can now run and shoot with any weapon in GTA III and Vice City, including shotguns and flamethrowers, which makes fighting feel much better. The rain effects, which many players complained about at launch, look much better now. Other improvements include better shadows, more detailed maps, nicer-looking clouds, and improved lighting effects on street lamps.
I can't believe I'm saying this but with the new Classic Lightning and the GTA Trilogy DE Patch
I'm on Vice City and it looks absolutely gorgeous. pic.twitter.com/EjI4YRqE07— Besk (@BeskInfinity) November 12, 2024
There’s also some behind-the-scenes drama worth mentioning. Grove Street Games, the studio that originally worked on these remasters, has had their logo quietly removed. They have been replaced by Video Games Deluxe, the studio that worked on the mobile versions of the game.
Currently, these improvements are only available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC versions. Players using PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch will need to wait longer for their versions to receive the update.
While The Definitive Edition may still not perfectly replicate the original PS2 versions, this update represents the most polished version of the remastered collection to date. The mix of classic visuals with newer features creates a better way to play these classic games.
For players who were disappointed with the initial release, this might finally be the right time to revisit Liberty City, Vice City, and San Andreas together. So are you hyped for this new update? Let us know in the comments below.
