Grand Theft Auto 5 is receiving a substantial upgrade on PC, bringing the platform in line with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions.  PC players will finally experience the enhanced features previously exclusive to consoles, and the best part is, it's a free update.

After its initial launch nearly 12 years ago, GTA 5 has seen multiple re-releases across different platforms. While PC players once enjoyed the definitive version, the 2022 console release introduced features not available on PC. This upgrade bridges that gap.

One of the biggest additions to the PC version is the implementation of ray-traced shadows, reflections, ambient occlusion, and global illumination. This will significantly enhance the game's visuals, providing a more immersive and realistic experience.

The upgrade also includes support for higher frame rates, resolutions, and aspect ratios, along with faster loading times for those using SSDs.  Improved audio with Dolby Atmos support, upscaling solutions like AMD FSR 1, FSR3, and Nvidia DLSS 3 are also part of the package.

GTA Online players on PC will gain access to Hao's Special Works, allowing them to apply high-performance modifications to their vehicles. Five new cars will be added to GTA Online on PC, and 20 existing vehicles will be eligible for tuning at Hao's Special Works. Players can also participate in Premium Test Rides, HSW Races, and HSW Time Trials.  Rockstar's GTA+ subscription service will also be available on PC.

The upgraded PC version will launch on March 4th as a free update for existing owners.  However, the enhanced features come with increased system requirements. Rockstar will continue to support the original PC version of GTA Online for those with less powerful hardware, but crossplay with the upgraded version won't be possible.

To enjoy the upgraded version, players will need at minimum an Intel Core i7-4770 or AMD FX-9590 processor, 8GB of RAM, an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1630 (4GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 6400 (4GB VRAM), and a 105GB SSD. Recommended specifications include Windows 11, an Intel Core i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600, 16GB of dual-channel RAM, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (8GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 6600XT (8GB VRAM), and a DirectStorage-compatible 105GB drive. A Windows Spatial Sound-compatible audio system with Dolby Atmos support is required for the full Dolby Atmos experience.