Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas first released in 2004 for PlayStation 2 and quickly became one of the most iconic entries in the popular GTA series. The sprawling open-world game was set in a fictional version of early 1990s California and followed protagonist Carl "CJ" Johnson's return to his old neighborhood.
Last year, developer Rockstar Games announced Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition. This included enhanced versions of GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas. However, the collection was widely criticized over its poor quality and abundance of bugs. Rockstar has gone back to the drawing board for the mobile release of a definitive edition of San Andreas, this time without involvement from Netflix.
Background on GTA: San Andreas
GTA: San Andreas built upon the gameplay foundations of prior series titles but took things to an unprecedented level with its vast open world and RPG-like progression system. Players could freely explore the cities, countryside, and deserts of San Andreas as CJ tried to rebuild his old gang and uncover the truth behind his mother’s murder.
The game introduced complex new mechanics like swimming, climbing, and physical stats affecting abilities. The storyline woven into this sandbox was full of shocking twists and dark humor the series became known for. San Andreas is still considered one of the greatest games of all time even 18 years later.
Announcement of Definitive Edition
Fans hoped a remaster would retain everything that made the original San Andreas so special while enhancing certain aspects to modern standards. So excitement was high after Rockstar announced they would be releasing GTA: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition in late 2021 including 3D Universe entries GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas.
Backlash Over Poor Quality
However, once released, severe criticism caused the developer to pull the collection from digital storefronts. Fans and reviewers blasted The Definitive Edition for containing misspelled text, low polygon models and textures clearly not optimized for HD displays, and some bizarre creative changes seen as detrimental to the game’s original artistic vision.
It became abundantly clear Rockstar had outsourced development to low-budget studios rather than handling these important remasters in-house with care. They have since reclaimed control over the project, especially for mobile ports many see as a chance at redemption.
GTA: San Andreas Definitive Mobile Version
While Vice City is slated to hit mobile first, Rockstar plans to follow up soon after with San Andreas designed specifically for Android and iOS. They aim to get it right this time by retaining the style and soul of the PS2 masterpiece while substantially improving visual presentation and gameplay.
Developed Directly by Rockstar
Most importantly, Rockstar Games themselves are overseeing development rather than trusting outside studios. Mobile veterans War Drum Studios who worked on several past GTA ports is assisting but progress remains under the watchful eye of Rockstar North studio heads. This ensures consistent creative direction aligned with the series’ roots.
Enhanced Visuals and Gameplay
With mobile hardware continuing to advance, San Andreas Definitive will make much more meaningful upgrades to visuals and gameplay over the disappointing Definitive Trilogy. Improvements across the board should satisfy both nostalgic fans and those playing for the first time.
Improved Character Models
Charitably referred to as “blocky”, character models in the 2004 original suffered from laughably low polygon counts. CJ and company receive modern makeovers adding far smoother edges and realistic dimensions true to concept art.
Higher Resolution Textures
From gritty urban streets to dusty rural roads, San Andreas spans hugely diverse environments. Higher resolution texture work heightens realism substantially while keeping art direction consistent with PS2 release.
New Content and Features
Enhancing existing content comes first but some exciting additions should give loyal fans reason to replay San Andreas from a fresh perspective.
Additional Side Missions
Lengthy main story aside, San Andreas always excelled at fun side content augmenting its sprawling world. New optional missions like added courier deliveries, bounty hunts, street races, and more make traversals feel more dynamic.
More Customization Options
Customizing protagonist CJ with tattoos, jewelry, and hairstyles helped player expression and investment. The Definitive Mobile Edition introduces whole new shop inventories allowing expanded personalization. Vehicles also receive new mods and paint schemes.
Why No Netflix Partnership?
Unlike the earlier mobile ports combining forces with Netflix, Rockstar felt maintaining singular alignment over San Andreas’ trajectory was preferential.
Different Creative Visions
GTA stories revel in humor and themes not suited to all audiences. Maintaining Rockstar’s signature tone meant avoiding creative differences stemming from Netflix ventilation.
Maintain Authenticity
Collaborations can lead to innovations but also deviations from original artistic intents. After Definitive Trilogy’s poor reception, Rockstar is ensuring San Andreas Definitive Mobile aligns with fan expectations before risking disruptive ambitions.
Conclusion
GTA: San Andreas Expanded & Enhanced aims to be the definitive version loyalists have waited years for. By handling development in-house with collaborative assistance from experienced port specialists, Rockstar can finally do right by a masterwork abandoned to careless outsourcing once already. Their greater commitment to polish and restraint from commercial distractions reflect an understanding that San Andreas doesn’t need novelty so much as ample TLC.
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