Scott Jacob | Contributing Writer

Bullets scream past my head as I sprint for cover behind the husk of a burning vehicle that used to be my escape route. I switch from my exhausted HK Mark 23 pistol to a M4 Carbine Rifle, reload the weapon with a fresh clip, grit my teeth and lay down a sporadic line of cover fire as I dash for a rapidly ascending helicopter.

Welcome to Grand Theft Auto 5.

The vast, almost insurmountable Los Angeles-paralleled world that players find themselves in is called Los Santos. Sprawling mountains, thick forests, vibrant cityscapes and treacherous waters act as the medium through which a brilliantly crafted storyline is brought to life.

Franklin, the street-educated gangster, Michael, the high-class criminal and Trevor, the drug addict wild card, make up the unlikely trio of GTA 5’s playable cast. What is so enthralling about these characters is the amount of emotional depth each one lacks near the beginning of the story and how much each man learns about the other as the game progresses. This grants the player an intimate glimpse into the protagonist’s true passions and motivations.

Rockstar did a phenomenal job formulating the game’s dialogue, making the speech more fluid and complex than previous installments. Each individual instance of dialogue allows the player an opportunity to form an opinion — the same opinion that will define many of the characters encountered throughout the story. A delicate balance between malicious intent and unwavering loyalty will be forged through the fiery crucible of dialogue.

While a riveting plot remains the backbone of this game, there is by no means a lack of outside missions, exploration opportunities or mini-games (golf rounds, bar darts and yoga sessions, to name a few).

In addition to this, Rockstar integrated a dramatic overhaul of the vehicle selections. The game features myriad new cars (the Felon, the Carbon RS, and the Elegy RH8), ATVs, planes, helicopters, boats, semi-trucks and even jet-skis, as well as some old favorites such as the Bullet GT and the Buffalo.

However, expansive landscapes, high-octane vehicles and full-bodied characters mean nothing unless the essential necessity of video game playability permeates the foundation: The game must be flat-out fun to play. This is where GTA 5 finds its strongest trait.

There is something for every type of gamer in this lustrous world – don’t have the time or patience for the intricate missions? Just explore the world and wreak havoc as you see fit. Consider yourself a perfectionist when it comes to ranking and awards? Replay missions until you achieve that 100 percent completion and grab the shiny gold medal.

For those who have waited more than five years, as well as casual gamers who want to experience the pinnacle of modern-day gaming, pick up this game and immerse yourself in the beautiful complexities of Los Santos.