Multiplayer Modes & Strategies

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars offers a robust multiplayer experience, allowing you to challenge friends locally via DS Wireless Play. These modes provide a fantastic break from the single-player campaign, offering unique objectives and competitive fun. Mastering them requires not just driving and shooting skills, but also strategic thinking and map awareness.

Setting Up a Multiplayer Game

To initiate a multiplayer session, both players need a copy of Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars. Follow these steps:

1. From the main menu, select "Multiplayer."
2. One player will choose "Host Game" and select their desired mode.
3. The other player will choose "Join Game" and select the host's session.
4. Ensure both DS systems are within close proximity for a stable connection.

It's crucial to communicate with your opponent before starting to agree on the mode and any specific rules or vehicle choices.

Multiplayer Modes

Race

The classic Grand Theft Auto experience: first to the finish line wins. Races in Chinatown Wars are fast-paced and often chaotic, with weapons and power-ups scattered along the tracks.

• Objective: Complete the designated laps and cross the finish line before your opponent.
• Key Strategies:
  • Vehicle Choice: Opt for high-speed vehicles like the Comet or Banshee for straightaways, or more agile cars like the Sentinel for tracks with many turns. The Infernus is a top-tier choice if available.
  • Weapon Usage: Don't hesitate to use weapons like the Machine Gun or Flamethrower to disable opponents, especially on tight turns or before jumps. The Grenade Launcher can be devastating if aimed correctly at a cluster of cars.
  • Power-Ups: Look for speed boosts (represented by a lightning bolt icon) and repair kits (wrench icon) strategically placed on the track. Knowing their locations can give you a significant advantage.
  • Cornering: Master the handbrake turn. Tapping the handbrake while turning allows for sharper, faster cornering without losing too much speed.
  • Blocking: If you're in the lead, strategically block your opponent's path, but be careful not to crash yourself.
• Recommended Tracks:
  • "Broker Bridge Blitz": A high-speed race across the Broker Bridge, favoring fast cars and precise driving.
  • "Algonquin Alley": Features tight turns and narrow streets, perfect for agile vehicles and aggressive weapon use.

Defend the Base

A tactical mode where players must protect their designated base while attempting to destroy their opponent's.

• Objective: Destroy your opponent's base before they destroy yours.
• Key Strategies:
  • Base Defense: Place mines (Proximity Mines are excellent for this) around your base's perimeter. Station yourself near your base with a powerful weapon like the Rocket Launcher or Assault Rifle to fend off attackers.
  • Offensive Pushes: Use fast, armored vehicles like the Patriot or Rhino (if unlocked) for direct assaults. The Tank is the ultimate offensive weapon but is slow.
  • Weapon Loadout: A balanced loadout is key. Carry a Rocket Launcher for base damage, an Assault Rifle for dealing with enemy players, and Grenades or Molotovs for area denial.
  • Distraction: One player can draw attention while the other sneaks in for an attack.
  • Repair Kits: Keep an eye out for repair kits on the map to mend your vehicle after taking damage.
• Important Note: Bases have a health bar. Repeated attacks with powerful explosives will eventually destroy them.

Gang Grab

A capture-the-flag style mode where players compete to collect and deliver packages to their own base.

• Objective: Collect more packages than your opponent within the time limit or reach a set number of packages first.
• Key Strategies:
  • Package Locations: Packages spawn randomly across the map. Learning common spawn points can give you an edge.
  • Vehicle Choice: A fast and durable vehicle like the Turismo or Sultan is ideal for quick package retrieval and evasion.
  • Offense & Defense: Decide whether to focus on collecting packages or intercepting your opponent. If you have a lead, consider playing defensively, ambushing your opponent as they try to deliver.
  • Weaponry: The Shotgun is excellent for close-quarters combat when dismounting an enemy carrying a package. The SMG offers good suppression fire.
  • Route Planning: Plan your route to and from your base to minimize exposure to your opponent. Use back alleys and less-trafficked roads.
• Tip: If an opponent is carrying a package, destroying their vehicle or eliminating them will cause the package to drop, allowing you to pick it up.

Co-op Missions

While not a competitive mode, Chinatown Wars also features cooperative missions where two You can team up to complete specific objectives against AI enemies. These missions often involve coordinated driving, shooting, and objective interaction.

• Objective: Work together to complete the mission goals, which can range from assassinations to vehicle pursuits or defending a location.
• Key Strategies:
  • Communication: Essential for success. Coordinate attacks, call out enemy positions, and plan your next move.
  • Role Assignment: One player might be the primary driver, while the other focuses on shooting from the passenger seat. Or, one player could draw aggro while the other flanks.
  • Weapon Synergy: Combine weapon types. For example, one player uses a Flamethrower for crowd control, while the other uses an Assault Rifle for precision shots.
  • Vehicle Usage: Utilize multi-person vehicles like the Patriot or Pony to allow both players to contribute to combat while on the move.
  • Health & Armor: Share health packs and armor vests found around the map, prioritizing You who is taking more damage or has a critical role.
• Example Co-op Mission Type: "Drug Run" where players must transport a valuable stash while fending off rival gangs.

General Multiplayer Tips

• Know the Map: Familiarity with Liberty City's districts, shortcuts, and weapon/health spawn points is crucial for all modes.
• Vehicle Mastery: Practice driving various vehicles. Each has unique handling characteristics.
• Weapon Proficiency: Understand the strengths and weaknesses of each weapon. The Sniper Rifle is great for long-range, while the Minigun excels at close-quarters destruction.
• Mini-Map Awareness: Always keep an eye on your mini-map to track your opponent's position, objective markers, and police presence.
• Police Evasion: In competitive modes, gaining a wanted level can severely hinder your progress. Learn quick ways to lose the cops, such as driving into Pay 'n' Spray shops or finding hidden alleys.
• Exploit the Environment: Use ramps for jumps, narrow streets for ambushes, and destructible objects to your advantage.