GTA 5’s Next-Gen PC Update Drops March 4 — Plus, What’s New for Xbox PC Game Pass?

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Feb 25, 2025, 16:36 IST

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Rockstar Games will release a free update for GTA 5 on PC on March 4, 2025. This update includes enhanced graphics, performance boosts, audio improvements, and GTA Online revamp. There are also rumors that GTA 5 may join Xbox PC Game Pass soon. Higher system requirements needed, but original GTA Online remains available for lower-end PCs.

GTA 5’s Next-Gen PC Update Drops March 4 — Plus, What’s New for Xbox PC Game Pass?

Rockstar Games

Rockstar Games just dropped some exciting news for GTA 5 fans — a huge free PC update is landing on March 4, 2025. This update will finally bring the PC version in line with the next-gen console upgrades seen on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. But what about those rumors swirling about GTA 5 coming to Xbox PC Game Pass? Let’s break it all down.

What’s in the March 4 Free PC Update for GTA 5?

The upcoming update is packed with features aimed at leveling up GTA 5's PC experience. Here’s what you can expect:

Enhanced Graphics: Say hello to ray tracing with ambient occlusion and global illumination for ultra-realistic lighting and shadows.
Performance Boosts: Faster load times, improved support for higher resolutions, frame rates, and aspect ratios — plus DirectStorage support for optimized SSD performance.
Advanced Graphics Settings: Added support for AMD FSR1, FSR3, and NVIDIA DLSS 3 to smooth out gameplay and maximize your frame rates.
Audio Improvements: Immersive sound is coming with Dolby Atmos support.
DualSense Controller Compatibility: If you're using a PS5 controller on your PC, you'll get haptic feedback and adaptive trigger support.

But that’s not all — GTA Online is also getting a revamp:

Hao’s Special Works: The popular vehicle upgrade shop from next-gen consoles is finally arriving on PC.
Wildlife Photography Challenge: New Ambient Animal encounters will be part of this challenge, giving players fresh side activities.
GTA+ Membership: PC players will now have access to GTA Plus for exclusive in-game perks and rewards.

Will GTA 5 Be Available on Xbox PC Game Pass?

While the free update is confirmed, the situation with GTA 5 joining Xbox PC Game Pass is less clear.
Reports have hinted that Rockstar Games might be preparing to add GTA 5 to Xbox PC Game Pass, but these claims are based on insider information rather than an official announcement. As of now, there’s no confirmed release date — so while the idea sounds exciting, it’s not set in stone.

Important Details on System Requirements and Crossplay

The new update will require higher system specs to run at full capacity, but Rockstar has confirmed that the original version of GTA Online will still be available for players with lower-end PCs.
However, there's a catch — crossplay between the old and new versions won’t be supported. If you're upgrading, you won’t be able to join lobbies with players sticking to the original version.
For those planning to upgrade, Rockstar is offering a one-time character migration option so you can carry over your GTA Online progress without any hassle.
Also read - GTA 6 Rumors and Theories: 4 Iconic Characters Who Might Appear in the Upcoming Grand Theft Auto Game

About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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