When it comes to iconic GTA games, San Andreas is probably one of the most memorable. It is not just blind nostalgia, as San Andreas is a legitimately good game in its own right. Released back in 2004, the game features some of the systems that even modern games like Cyberpunk 2077 weren't able to replicate. In this article, we are going to showcase the top 5 reasons why GTA San Andreas is still worth playing in 2021.

1. A diverse open world

Unlike the usual open world games where areas are designed in the same style and look identical, San Andreas' world map is very diverse - it is comprised of three islands, and each of them has its own city. GTA San Andreas map vs GTA 5 map is often compared for being the most realistic designs in the entire Grand Theft Auto series.

GTA the strip
The strip in Las Venturas is one of the most unique looking locations in the GTA series

Los Santos alone is already super rich in variety - it has several ghetto streets, a beachside area, and a Hollywood-style location. Las Venturas and San Fierro are unique locations each with their own styles. There aren't many instances where places feel samey and resemble one another.

2. The attention to details

Rockstar has added a lot of details onto the world and the map of San Andreas. There is always something players can do, with content spread out in every corner of the game world. From storyline missions to vehicle missions, minigames and collectibles, it would take quite some time to complete 100% content of the game.

FAT CJ
Players can roleplay whatever they want in San Andreas.

Player's conditions also affect the game world. If CJ gains too much weight, the game won't allow the player to participate in a few missions. Other NPC's will call CJ every now and then to remind him to lose weight and hit the gym in order to progress in the game.

3. Amazing modding scene

Despite being an 18 years old game, not many games can beat GTA San Andreas' modding scene. It is massive, with only GTA 5 managed to surpass in scale. The scene is so big that there is likely to be a mod for everything a player can think of in San Andreas. This increases the replayability of the game massively, with GTA SA graphic mods being the most common.

graphic mods
You can mod GTA San Andreas with modern graphics, which looks even better than the Definitive Edition.

4. Multiplatform availability

GTA San Andreas is available on a lot of platforms, including Android. Players can enjoy the world of San Andreas everywhere, without having to access a PC or console. This allows them to gradually explore the open world at their own pace. The gameplay is also simple enough that the console port could emulate everything.

5. The amazing soundtrack

The Soundtracks is usually one of the best features of a GTA title, and GTA San Andreas is not an exception. It has a great mix of hip-hop, 80's synth pop and then some pretty heavy rock tracks to round out the roster.

The music complements the game's 90s settings perfectly, with some radio stations tailor-made for various locales.

>>> Read more: List Of GTA San Andreas Voice Actors For All Characters