GTA Online finally gets game-changing update in March but it’s not for everyone

Rockstar has confirmed that a long-awaited PC update will become available to GTA 5 and GTA Online players in March.
In March 2022, Rockstar Games deployed a next-gen update for GTA 5 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S hardware. The patch significantly enhanced the open-world experience, with 3D audio support, faster load times, and higher fidelity visuals.
It also added new GTA Online content in the form of Hao’s Special Works, an in-game item shop that opened the door to better vehicle customization options.
PC players weren’t treated to the same extra bells and whistles at the time, but the update will finally migrate over in March.
GTA 5 PC players to soon receive the next-gen update
On March 4, 2025, GTA 5 and GTA Online players on PC will finally gain access to the free upgrade packed with Hao’s Special Works and other features.
In a blog post detailing the upgrade, Rockstar Games noted it will include improved graphics, faster loading, animal encounters, and the ability to subscribe to GTA+.
Those who already own the PC version will also have the option to transfer their Story Mode and Online progress to the new iteration.
Players will want to visit Hao’s Special Works inside the LS Car Meet, too, which will have five new cars available that were previously exclusive on PS5 and Series X|S: Coil Cyclone II, Imponte Arbiter GT, Karin S95, Pegassi Weaponized Ignus, and Pfister Astron Custom.
The new features include all of the following:
- Enjoy a range of new vehicles and upgrades at Hao’s Special Works (HSW) that push automotive performance to new heights, and test your driving skills with Premium Test Rides, HSW Races, and HSW Time Trials.
- Encounter Ambient Animals all across Southern San Andreas and take pictures of them to participate in the daily Wildlife Photography Challenge for new rewards.
- PC players can sign up for GTA+ Membership to get special benefits in the upgraded version of GTA Online and beyond.
- Track your criminal movements across all of GTA Online’s updates with the Career Progress feature as you build your empire.
- Navigate a refreshed Landing Page as your starting destination to get straight into the action. Plus, take advantage of an improved introductory flow for newer players with a GTA $4,000,000 windfall to buy property, vehicles, and other items when you start off as an Executive, Gunrunner, Nightclub Owner, or Biker in the Career Builder.
Moreover, this upgraded version will additionally include newer improvements to GTA Online, such as kernel-based anti-cheat protections and voice chat moderation.
In terms of technical enhancements, PC players who upgrade can expect a host of new features depending on their hardware:
- Ray tracing features only available on PC such as ambient occlusion and global illumination – plus ray traced shadows and reflections first debuted on consoles
- Support for AMD FSR1 and FSR3, and NVIDIA DLSS 3
- Faster loading times using SSD and DirectStorage on supported devices and configurations
- Enhanced support for higher resolutions, higher aspect ratios, and higher framerates
- DualSense controller support, with adaptive triggers
- Enhanced audio with support for Dolby Atmos and improved fidelity of speech, cinematics, and music
This game-changing update for GTA 5 and GTA Online will become available to PC users on March 4.
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