GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition Update: Classic Lighting Returns
The GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition, which had a rough start after launch, just got a big update that fans have been waiting for. Three years after its rocky launch, Rockstar Games has finally added the improvements from last year’s mobile version to the PC and current-gen console versions. Here’s a look at what’s changed and why it’s important.
Classic Lighting Returns to GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition
Remember how the original PS2 games looked? That distinctive visual style is finally back. The new update adds a “Classic Lighting” option that returns the sky and atmosphere to how it looked in the original games.
You’ll find this setting under the graphics tab in the pause menu, and it’s turned on by default. This means Rockstar knows what fans want.
GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition Fixes
Visual Improvements
- Heat haze effects have returned.
- Ambient clouds are back in the sky.
- Streetlights now have an orange glow with flares.
- Character animations look more natural, especially while swimming.
Gameplay Enhancements
- You can now shoot while running in GTA III and Vice City. This includes shotguns, assault rifles, and even the flamethrower.
- Running and aiming animations have been improved.
- The save menu in San Andreas now shows dates and times.
Download Sizes and Availability
This GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition update is available on various platforms, such as:
- PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, Rockstar Launcher)
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
File sizes vary by the game type:
| GTA | Size |
| GTA San Andreas | 18.44GB |
| GTA Vice City | 8.83GB |
| GTA III | 4.15GB |
Note that PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch versions won’t receive this update.
Should You Jump Back In?
If you have been waiting to play these classic games, now might be the perfect time to jump in. The Classic Lighting option really changes how they look and feel, restoring the nostalgic atmosphere that many fans missed. Along with better animations and gameplay tweaks, these versions are finally shaping up to feel like true remasters of these beloved titles.
The update shows that Rockstar hasn’t forgotten about these classics, even as they work on GTA 6. While some issues might still remain, this patch brings the console and PC versions much closer to what fans expected when the Definitive Edition was first announced.
