Main Protagonists
Grand Theft Auto V follows three protagonists whose lives gradually become connected through robberies, personal conflicts, and criminal schemes. Michael, Franklin, and Trevor have very different backgrounds and approaches to crime, while each character has a unique special ability that changes how they perform in combat or during driving. The game allows players to switch between the protagonists during most parts of the open world, while certain missions control which character is available. More information about the basic system can be found in getting started.
Michael De Santa
Michael De Santa was once known as Michael Townley, a professional criminal who eventually disappeared and established a new life in Los Santos. His new identity is protected by a secret arrangement with FIB agent Dave Norton, but his attempt at retirement does not last. Problems in his family life, financial pressure, and a debt owed to Martin Madrazo eventually push Michael back into criminal activity.
His return to the underworld also opens the door to a very different career. Michael becomes involved with the film industry and eventually crosses paths with billionaire businessman Devin Weston. In combat, Michael's special ability activates a form of bullet time that slows the action and makes it easier to line up accurate shots. The ability can be restored by performing actions such as scoring headshots.
Franklin Clinton
Franklin Clinton begins the story working for a dishonest car dealer, where his job involves repossessing vehicles from customers who fail to make their payments. One of these assignments brings him into contact with Michael and eventually changes the direction of his life. Franklin is ambitious and wants to move beyond the limited opportunities available to him on the streets of Los Santos.
Driving is one of Franklin's greatest strengths, and his special ability reflects that talent by slowing down time while he is behind the wheel. The meter can be restored through skilled driving, including controlled drifting. Franklin's friendship with Lamar Davis repeatedly gets him into dangerous situations, particularly when Lamar's conflicts with rival gang members such as Stretch escalate.
Franklin also occupies a unique position in the final part of the story. Depending on the player's choice, he can determine what happens to Michael and Trevor when their criminal partnership reaches its breaking point.
Trevor Philips
Trevor Philips operates from Blaine County, where he has built a criminal business involving drugs, weapons, and various black-market deals. His activities bring him into conflict with several groups, including the Lost motorcycle gang, local gangs, competing meth dealers, Merryweather Security, and the Triads led by Wei Cheng.
Trevor is already an accomplished pilot when he enters the main story, giving him an advantage during missions that involve aircraft. His special ability makes him extremely dangerous in a fight: activating it allows him to deal significantly more damage while reducing the amount of damage he receives. The ability gradually becomes available again as Trevor performs actions that increase its meter.
Trevor originally believed that Michael had been killed during the failed robbery that separated them years earlier. Discovering that Michael is still alive—and learning the truth surrounding Brad—forces Trevor to confront the betrayal that shaped his life. His unpredictable personality divided critics, although Official Xbox Magazine selected Trevor as its Best Character of 2013.
The three protagonists eventually reach different possible outcomes as their alliances and rivalries come to a head. For the details of those choices and conclusions, see story and endings. Other important characters who influence their lives are covered in supporting cast.