Besides the main quest, players can also participate in a lot of interesting side activities in the GTA series, including playable sports. These sports activities do not affect the narrative and can make the playthrough more immersive, as they are built around the franchise's open world mechanic. With ongoing updates to GTA Online in 2025, including enhanced versions of classic minigames and new seasonal events like Drag Races Week, these activities continue to evolve and keep the world of Los Santos feeling fresh.
In this updated article, Gurugamer is going to list out the 7 best playable sports in the GTA series to date.
1. Basketball (GTA San Andreas)
While many basketball courts can be seen through the series, only Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas allows the player to actually play basketball. Players can earn points by throwing the ball into the hoop - the further they are from the hoop, the more points they earn.
CJ can spin the ball on his finger or do a slam dunk while closing in.
The ability to play basketball is unlocked after completing the mission "Tagging Up Turf", when basketballs may appear on basketball courts. There are no rewards for this minigame, but it remains a fan favorite for its authentic streetball feel.
2. Tennis (GTA 5)
Tennis is unlocked after the mission Complications. Afterward, players can play Tennis with dates or against AI opponents of varying difficulty. Players need to win a game of Tennis to get 100% completion of GTA 5. In GTA Online 2025 updates, multiplayer tennis matches have been boosted with double RP rewards during select weekly events.
Only Michael or Trevor can play Tennis.
Players can use a number of different tennis shots such as lobs, topspins and backspins. Additionally, they can also win some money by winning a tennis game.
3. Bowling (GTA 4)
Bowling is a game that can be played alone or against a friend or girlfriend. It unlocks during the First Date mission, and afterward, players can enjoy it at any time.
The achievement Gobble Gobble is given if the player scores a "turkey" (three strikes in a row).
It can be played at two bowling alleys owned by Memory Lanes and players can choose between a half game and a full game. A win is needed for 100% completion of GTA 4. Fans continue to hope for its return in future titles like the upcoming GTA 6.
4. Darts (GTA 4, GTA 5)
Darts is a sport minigame where players throw darts at a board. This is one of the few games that appear in more than one GTA game. In GTA Online, it's popular during social hangouts and has seen increased play with 2025's enhanced social space updates.
Darts is available when on dates, while socializing with friends, and when alone.
In GTA IV, it is possible to play darts in the following locations: Steinway Beer Garden in Dukes, and Lucky Winkles in Algonquin. In GTA V, there's only The Yellow Jack Inn in Great Senora Desert, next to Sandy Shores. Additionally, players can also play Darts inside their MC clubhouse and arcade heist-planning level.
5. Triathlon (GTA 5)
A Triathlon is a multi-stage marathon that features swimming, biking and running. All three activities increase one's stamina, strength, and lung capacity. Players need to get a medal in each activity for 100% completion of GTA 5. These races have been refreshed in GTA Online with new cross-country variants in 2025 seasonal events.
Triathlons are harder than they seem, as the AI cheats to catch up with the player.
There are a total of 3 Triathlons. Players can participate in Triathlon at Vespucci Beach, Seaview Road, and Marina Drive. The first one becomes available after the mission Daddy's Little Girl, and the other two are unlocked as the player completes the previous triathlons.
6. Golf (GTA 5)
Golf is a relaxing yet challenging sport minigame available at the Los Santos Golf Club in GTA 5. Players can play full 9-hole or 18-hole courses solo or with friends in GTA Online. Achieving a gold medal on all holes is required for 100% completion.
Recent 2025 GTA Online updates have included double money rewards for golf sessions, making it a lucrative pastime between heists.
7. Arm Wrestling (GTA 5)
Arm Wrestling is a quick, competitive minigame where players challenge NPCs or friends in a test of strength. It's available at various bars and gyms across Los Santos. Winning matches boosts strength stats and provides minor cash rewards.
In GTA Online, it's a staple for crew bonding, with enhanced animations in the 2025 PC Enhanced edition.
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