Like other iconic games such as Skyrim and The Last of Us, GTA 5 Legacy has seen multiple re-releases. Since its initial launch on seventh-generation consoles, it has been upgraded for newer hardware, including PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. However, until recently, PC players had only one version of the game.
On March 4, Rockstar finally introduced a much-awaited upgrade for GTA 5 on PC. This update divided the game into two versions: GTA 5 Legacy and GTA 5 Enhanced. If you’re wondering about the differences and which one to play, here’s a detailed breakdown.
GTA 5 Legacy Upgrade: What’s New?
For years, the PC version of GTA 5 lagged behind its console counterparts. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S received significant graphical enhancements, including ray tracing, while PC users waited for an update.
With the latest upgrade, Rockstar introduced two distinct versions for PC:
- GTA 5 Legacy Version: This is the original PC version of GTA 5, without any new improvements.
- Enhanced Version: This includes all the latest graphical and technical upgrades on consoles.
The best part? All PC players can upgrade to the Enhanced version for free, even those who originally claimed the game for free via the Epic Games Store.
What’s New in GTA 5 Enhanced?
The Enhanced edition brings numerous upgrades to GTA 5, ranging from improved visuals to new vehicles and gameplay features.
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New Vehicles & Upgrades at Hao’s Special Works (HSW)
- Newly Added Vehicles:
- Super: Coil Cyclone II, Pegassi Weaponized Ignus
- Muscle: Imponte Arbiter GT
- Sports: Karin S95
- SUV: Pfister Astron Custom
- Newly Upgradable Vehicles at HSW:
- Super: Principe Deveste Eight, Overflod Entity MT
- Sports: Grotti Itali GTO Stinger TT, Bravado Banshee GTS
- SUV: Karin Vivanite, Weeny Issi Rally
- Muscle: Bravado Buffalo EVX, Declasse Vigero ZX Convertible
Additional Features & Enhancements
- Wildlife Photography Challenge: Participate to earn rewards.
- GTA+ Membership Support: Access exclusive benefits in GTA Online.
- Career Progress Tracker: Keep track of your in-game milestones.
- Improved Landing Page: Faster navigation in the game menu.
Technical Upgrades in GTA 5 Enhanced
Ray Tracing Features
- Exclusive to PC: Ray-Traced Ambient Occlusion & Global Illumination (not available on consoles).
- Also Available on Consoles: Ray-Traced Shadows & Reflections.
Performance & Visual Enhancements
- Upscaling Support: AMD FSR 1, FSR 3, and NVIDIA DLSS 3 for better performance.
- Faster Load Times: DirectStorage support for quick asset streaming.
- DualSense Controller Support: Full adaptive trigger functionality on PS5 controllers.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos support for immersive sound.
System Requirements for Enhanced Edition
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
| OS | Windows 10 | Windows 11 |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-4770 / AMD FX-9590 | Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB (Dual Channel) |
| GPU | GTX 1630 (4GB) / RX 6400 (4GB) | RTX 3060 (8GB) / RX 6600XT (8GB) |
| Storage | 105 GB SSD Required | 105 GB DirectStorage SSD |
Compatibility & FiveM Support
- Story Mode & Online Progress Migration:
- Can be migrated once from GTA 5 Legacy to Enhanced.
- After migration, progress in each version remains separate.
- FiveM Support:
- The legacy version supports FiveM as usual.
- Enhanced version support is in development.
- Multiplayer & Matchmaking:
- GTA 5 Legacy and Enhanced versions cannot match with each other.
- Players must be on the same version to play together.
- Access to Both Versions:
- Players can choose between GTA 5 Legacy and Enhanced versions freely.
- Rockstar will continue supporting the GTA 5 Legacy version.
Which Version Should You Play?
While the Enhanced version offers superior graphics, faster load times, and new content, the GTA 5 Legacy version remains a viable option for those with older hardware. If you have a high-end PC, the Enhanced Edition is the best choice.
However, since progress migration is one-time only, choose wisely before making the switch!
Final Verdict
GTA 5 Enhanced is a significant leap forward for PC players, bringing long-awaited improvements and new content. If you want the best experience, it’s worth upgrading—especially since it’s free!
Which version of GTA 5 are you playing? Let us know in the comments!