Mission Order
Welcome to the definitive guide for navigating the intricate mission structure of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. While the game offers a degree of freedom, following an optimized mission order can enhance your experience, unlock crucial abilities efficiently, and prevent unnecessary backtracking. This section details the recommended progression through the main storyline, highlighting key objectives and essential preparations.
Starting Missions: Getting Your Feet Wet in Los Santos
Your journey as Carl "CJ" Johnson begins in Los Santos, and the initial missions serve as a tutorial, introducing you to the core mechanics and characters. Focus on these to establish your presence in Grove Street.
- Big Smoke: This is your very first mission. Simply follow Big Smoke, Ryder, and Sweet on bicycles. There's no combat, just a chase sequence that introduces you to the game's movement and basic controls.
- Ryder: Following "Big Smoke," Ryder will offer you missions. These often involve driving and minor confrontations. Pay attention to the driving mechanics and learn to handle different vehicles.
Sweet's Missions: Reclaiming Grove Street
Sweet, your brother and leader of the Grove Street Families, will assign you missions focused on strengthening the gang's influence and taking on rival gangs. These missions often involve tagging, combat, and strategic driving.
- Tagging Up Turf: This mission introduces you to the concept of gang tags. You'll need to acquire a Spray Can (found near the mission start or at your house) and spray over rival gang tags. There are several tags to find, so explore the designated areas thoroughly. This is a good opportunity to practice stealth and evasion if you encounter rival gang members.
- Cleaning the Hood: This mission involves confronting rival gang members directly. Ensure you have a basic understanding of the combat system. You'll likely be equipped with a Pistol or a Baseball Bat. Focus on headshots for quicker takedowns.
- Drive-Thru: This mission is a classic drive-by. You'll be in a car with your crew, and your objective is to shoot at rival gang members from the vehicle. Practice your aiming while driving. Keep an eye on your health and the car's condition.
- Nines and AK's: This is a crucial mission for weapon proficiency. You'll be introduced to the 9mm Pistol and the AK-47. The mission will guide you through target practice, improving your weapon skills. Take your time to master the aiming and firing mechanics, as these weapons will be vital throughout the game.
- Drive-By: Similar to "Drive-Thru," but with potentially more intense combat. You'll be driving and shooting, so maintaining control of your vehicle while engaging enemies is key. Prioritize taking out enemies that pose the biggest threat, especially those with automatic weapons.
Optimal Progression Strategy
While the game allows some flexibility, it's generally recommended to complete all available missions from one character before moving on to another, especially in the early stages. This ensures you unlock all necessary gang abilities and progress the story cohesively. For example, after completing Sweet's initial set of missions, you might find new missions available from other characters like Ryder or even new contacts that open up as the story unfolds. Always ensure you have sufficient ammunition and body armor before embarking on a mission, especially those involving heavy combat. Look for weapon pickups around your safehouse or visit Ammu-Nation stores.