Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 5 Enhanced Now the Worst User-Reviewed GTA on Steam

Rockstar's latest release, Grand Theft Auto 5 Enhanced, which hit Steam on March 4, has stirred up quite the controversy among its fanbase. The game is currently sitting at a 'mixed' user review rating, with only 54% of the 19,772 reviews being positive. This is a stark contrast to the original GTA 5, which, although unlisted and no longer searchable on Steam at Rockstar's request, boasts a 'very positive' review rating.

Interestingly, GTA 5 Enhanced is now the lowest-rated GTA title on Steam, falling below even Grand Theft Auto III – The Definitive Edition, which holds a 66% positive review rating. This new version offers a free upgrade for PC users, bringing features that were exclusive to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S versions of GTA Online, such as new vehicles, performance upgrades at Hao’s Special Works, animal encounters, and the ability to purchase a GTA+ Membership. It also boasts enhanced graphics and quicker loading times, with the convenience of migrating both Story Mode and Online progress.

Every Celebrity in GTA 5 and GTA Online

15 ImagesHowever, the promised seamless account migration has proven to be a significant hurdle for many players, contributing to the bulk of the negative feedback. Frustrated users have reported issues with the migration process, with some unable to transfer their extensive gameplay progress. One particularly vocal player expressed their disappointment, stating, "‘The GTA Online profile associated with this Rockstar Games account is not eligible for migration at this time,’" and went on to vent their frustration over the potential loss of nearly 700 hours of gameplay.

Other negative reviews echoed similar sentiments, with players feeling let down by the inability to migrate their accounts and the perceived downgrade from the original version. The sentiment is clear: many are choosing to stick with the legacy version until a more satisfactory solution is provided or until the much-anticipated GTA 6 arrives.

Despite these challenges, GTA 5 Enhanced continues to attract a significant number of players on Steam, with a peak concurrent player count of 187,059 since its launch. However, the rocky reception has raised concerns among the PC gaming community about the future release of GTA 6 on PC, especially given the planned exclusive launch of GTA 6 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S in the fall of 2025. A former Rockstar developer has tried to assuage these concerns, urging PC gamers to remain patient and trust in Rockstar's plans.

For more on the future of the GTA series, including insights from Take-Two's Strauss Zelnick on the fate of GTA Online post-GTA 6, and the latest legal battles involving Take-Two and online marketplace PlayerAuctions, stay tuned. Additionally, Rockstar's recent acquisition and rebranding of Video Games Deluxe to Rockstar Australia marks another significant move in the gaming giant's ongoing journey.