Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City are two legendary titles developed by Rockstar Games that defined open-world gaming in the early 2000s. Even today, these games continue to attract millions of players across PC, consoles, and mobile platforms. One of the biggest reasons for their long-lasting popularity is their iconic characters and memorable cheat codes, which allow players to experience the game in creative and entertaining ways.This article provides a detailed comparison of GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City, focusing specifically on their main characters, supporting cast, and GTA Vice City or GTA San Andreas cheats, with a clear structure and in-depth explanations.
GTA San Andreas
Overview of GTA San Andreas
Released in 2004, GTA San Andreas is set in the fictional state of San Andreas, which includes three major cities: Los Santos, San Fierro, and Las Venturas. The game is inspired by early 1990s America and explores themes such as gang violence, corruption, loyalty, and personal growth. It is widely considered the most content-rich game in the GTA franchise.
Main Characters in GTA San Andreas
Carl “CJ” Johnson
Carl Johnson, also known as CJ, is the protagonist of GTA San Andreas. After spending years away from home, CJ returns to Los Santos following his mother’s murder. Unlike previous GTA protagonists, CJ is highly customizable—players can change his clothes, physique, hairstyle, and even eating habits. His journey is one of redemption, family loyalty, and survival in a corrupt system.
Sweet Johnson
Sean “Sweet” Johnson is CJ’s older brother and the leader of the Grove Street Families gang. Sweet represents traditional values and is deeply committed to protecting his neighborhood. His strict mindset often conflicts with CJ’s broader ambitions, creating emotional tension throughout the story.
Big Smoke
Melvin “Big Smoke” Harris is one of the most iconic characters in gaming history. Initially portrayed as a loyal friend, Big Smoke later reveals his betrayal, aligning himself with corrupt police and rival gangs. His personality, humor, and shocking betrayal make him unforgettable.
Ryder
Lance “Ryder” Wilson is a hot-tempered gang member known for his aggressive behavior and paranoia. Like Big Smoke, Ryder eventually betrays Grove Street, reinforcing the game’s themes of trust and deception.
Officer Frank Tenpenny
Frank Tenpenny is the main antagonist of GTA San Andreas. A corrupt police officer, he constantly blackmails and manipulates CJ. Tenpenny represents systemic corruption and abuse of power, making him one of the most realistic villains in the GTA universe.
Cheat Codes in GTA San Andreas
Cheat codes in GTA San Andreas allow players to experiment freely with gameplay mechanics. From spawning vehicles to becoming invincible, these cheats add endless replay value.
Health, Money, and Player Cheats
- HESOYAM – Restores full health and armor and gives $250,000
- BAGUVIX – Makes CJ nearly invincible
- CVWKXAM – Unlimited oxygen for underwater exploration
- FULLCLIP – Unlimited ammo without reloading
Weapon Cheat Codes
- LXGIWYL – Weapon Set 1 (basic weapons)
- PROFESSIONALSKIT – Weapon Set 2 (professional weapons)
UZUMYMW – Weapon Set 3 (heavy weapons)
Vehicle and Special Ability Cheats
- ROCKETMAN – Spawns a jetpack
- AIYPWZQP – Spawns a parachute
- KGGGDKP – Spawn a hovercraft
- JUMPJET – Spawn a Hydra jet
GTA Vice City
Overview of GTA Vice City
GTA Vice City was released in 2002 and is set in Vice City, a fictional version of Miami inspired by the vibrant 1980s era. The game emphasizes flashy visuals, neon lights, and a strong crime-drama atmosphere. Its story is heavily inspired by classic gangster films and TV shows.
Main Characters in GTA Vice City
Tommy Vercetti
Tommy Vercetti is the protagonist of GTA Vice City. Recently released from prison, Tommy is sent to Vice City by the Forelli crime family. Unlike CJ, Tommy cannot be customized physically, but his personality is well-defined. He is ambitious, confident, and ruthless, slowly rising to become the most powerful criminal in Vice City.
Ken Rosenberg
Ken Rosenberg is a nervous and often panicked lawyer who assists Tommy. Despite his cowardly nature, Ken plays an important role in helping Tommy navigate Vice City’s criminal underworld.
Lance Vance
Lance Vance is Tommy’s close associate and brother of Victor Vance. Over time, Lance grows resentful of Tommy’s success, leading to one of the most dramatic betrayals in the game. His character arc highlights jealousy and ambition.
Ricardo Diaz
Ricardo Diaz is a powerful drug lord and one of Vice City’s main antagonists. Known for his violent temper and paranoia, Diaz controls much of the city’s drug trade before being overthrown by Tommy.
Cheat Codes in GTA Vice City
Cheat codes in Vice City are simpler than those in San Andreas but still extremely fun and effective.
Health, Armor, and Wanted Level Cheats
- ASPIRINE – Restore full health
- PRECIOUSPROTECTION – Restore full armor
- YOUWONTTAKEMEALIVE – Increase wanted level
- LEAVEMEALONE – Remove wanted level
Weapon Cheat Codes
- THUGSTOOLS – Basic weapon set
- PROFESSIONALTOOLS – Advanced weapons
- NUTTERTOOLS – Heavy weapons including rocket launchers
Vehicle and Fun Cheats
- PANZER – Spawn a tank
- COMEFLYWITHME – Flying cars
- BIGBANG – Explode nearby vehicles
- SEAWAYS – Cars can drive on water
Comparison Between GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City
Characters Comparison
- GTA San Andreas offers deeper character development and emotional storytelling.
- GTA Vice City focuses on a cinematic rise-to-power narrative with fewer but memorable characters.
Cheat Codes Comparison
- San Andreas cheat codes are more advanced and experimental, including RPG elements.
- Vice City cheat codes are arcade-style, emphasizing chaos and fast fun.
Why These Games Are Still Popular Today
Despite being over two decades old, GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City remain popular due to:
- Strong storytelling
- Iconic characters
- Entertaining cheat codes
- High replay value
- Active modding communities
Their influence can still be seen in modern open-world games. Till now, some players still play GTA San Andreas MOD APK or GTA Vice City MOD APK. Remember to download these APKs from trusted sources.
Conclusion
GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City are timeless classics that continue to shape the gaming world. San Andreas stands out for its depth, customization, and complex characters like CJ and Big Smoke. Vice City excels in atmosphere, style, and a powerful protagonist in Tommy Vercetti. Combined with their legendary cheat codes, both games offer unforgettable experiences that remain enjoyable even today.
