Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas game cover

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas CD Key

In Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, you play as Carl Johnson, returning to Los Santos to avenge his mother’s murder and reclaim power over the streets. Explore an expansive open world filled with crime, corruption, and intense challenges as you navigate the treacherous landscape of the early 90s.

Release Date

04 Jan, 2008

Publisher/Developer

Rockstar Games

Reviews

Steam: 91.95% positive (64322/69955)
Metacritic: 93/100

System Requirements

Minimum:
  • OS *: Microsoft® Windows® 2000/XP
  • Processor: 1Ghz Pentium III or AMD Athlon Processor
  • Memory: 256MB of RAM
  • Graphics: 64MB Video Card (Geforce 3 or better)
  • Hard Drive: 3.6GB of free hard disk space (minimal install)
  • Other Requirements: Software installations required including DirectX and Sony DADC SecuROM
  • Partner Requirements: Please check the terms of service of this site before purchasing this software.

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Steam AI Review Summary

SteamAI
Summary generated from 300 most useful Steam user reviews.

Users wrote

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is widely praised as a timeless open-world classic with a huge map spanning three cities. Reviewers frequently cite its engaging story, memorable characters, and an iconic soundtrack that defines the experience. The PC port and Steam availability are common points of criticism, with bugs, crashes, and 60 FPS issues, and some reviews discuss the Definitive Edition remaster and its delisting affecting accessibility. Despite these issues, SA remains highly regarded and nostalgic for many players.

Last updated: 2026-03-01

Most Mentioned Advantages

  • Nostalgia and enduring appeal (34 mentions) - Many players describe SA as a cultural milestone with lasting appeal. Nostalgia and memories from childhood fuel ongoing interest, and players keep returning for the atmosphere and familiar gameplay. The game is frequently called timeless and one of the best GTA titles.
  • Engaging story and memorable characters (32 mentions) - Carl 'CJ' Johnson's story is widely praised for its writing and character moments. Reviewers note dramatic moments, humor, and a cast that leaves a lasting impression. The narrative is considered a standout within the GTA series, contributing to its lasting appeal. This combination of story and characters is repeatedly cited as a major strength.
  • Massive open world across three cities (28 mentions) - SA offers a huge, varied open world spanning Los Santos, San Fierro, and Las Venturas plus surrounding areas. Players can freely explore, undertake main and side missions, and engage in a wide range of activities. The world feels alive with distinct districts and environments, contributing to a strong sense of scale. Reviewers repeatedly highlight openness and scope as a defining feature of the game.
  • Iconic soundtrack and radio (27 mentions) - The game is renowned for its radio stations and soundtrack, which define the atmosphere of the 90s. Reviewers describe the music as a core part of the experience, with many songs becoming iconic. The soundtrack enhances immersion and remains highly praised even years after release.
  • Extensive content and replayability (26 mentions) - The world offers a huge amount of content beyond the main quest, including side activities, territory fights, and character progression. Reviewers highlight the game's replayability and the wealth of things to do, which leads to long playtimes. The variety of activities and systems contribute to enduring engagement.

Most Mentioned Disadvantages

  • PC port bugs and optimization issues (22 mentions) - Reviews report bugs, crashes, and control problems on PC, with requests for patches to achieve stable performance. Some players experience mouse/keyboard or controller issues, and certain missions can crash or freeze. The PC experience is described as unstable and sometimes difficult to get running smoothly.
  • Some missions are difficult or glitchy (20 mentions) - Reviewers point to certain missions that are too hard or frustrating, such as the infamous train mission and the Low Rider mission, which can be punishing or glitchy. Some sequences feel outdated due to the game's age.
  • Delisted from Steam / not purchasable (10 mentions) - SA is no longer available on Steam in many regions, making it harder to access legally. Reviewers describe this as a loss of easy access and are critical of the publisher for removing the title.
  • Definitive Edition remaster is poorly executed (9 mentions) - Multiple reviewers criticize the Definitive Edition as a poor remaster that fails to capture SA's original atmosphere. Some prefer the original version and avoid the remaster.
  • Lack of Steam achievements (6 mentions) - Some players note the absence of achievements in the Steam version, which reduces optional goals for completionists.

Compared Games

  • Grand Theft Auto V (3 mentions) - Some reviewers compare SA to GTA V; opinions vary, with SA praised for story and open world and some stating it surpasses GTA V.
  • Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Definitive Edition (3 mentions) - Reviewers note that the Definitive Edition is inferior or defective compared to the original SA, with many preferring the classic version.
  • Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2 mentions) - Some reviewers feel Vice City is better than San Andreas.
Users wrote

Advantages mentioned by the majority
Less frequently mentioned disadvantages


In Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, players step into the shoes of Carl Johnson (CJ), a former gang member who returns to his hometown of Los Santos after a five-year absence. The early 1990s backdrop depicts a city embroiled in gang violence, corruption, and drug dealings. CJ's mission is deeply personal; he must avenge his mother's murder while mending his fractured family and confronting a corrupt police force that falsely accuses him of homicide.

The game unfolds across the expansive state of San Andreas, offering players a vast open world to explore. This action-packed title is renowned for its engaging gameplay, which combines driving, shooting, and immersive storytelling. From the underbelly of criminal enterprises to high-speed chases, every choice affects your path.

With its richly detailed environments, a diverse cast of characters, and a compelling narrative, San Andreas has become a cult classic celebrated for its innovation and depth. Join CJ in a quest for redemption and control, and discover why this title remains a landmark in gaming history.


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