GTA: San Andreas Source Code Leak Unveils Hidden Multiplayer Mode

You'd think that after Take-Two Interactive doubled down on the release date of Grand Theft Auto 6 two weeks ago, everyone would continue talking about the upcoming title alone. However, over the weekend we just got proof that people just can't stop talking about Grand Theft Auto in general - especially if something as big as one of the most beloved games in the series sees its source code leaked online, as initially spotted on GTA Forums.

Now this isn't the first time that _Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas **source code has leaked online, but the main difference is that this appears to be legitimate. Some are even pointing fingers towards a certain "Mark" and Grove Street Games (formerly known as War Drum Studios), because the leaked code contains references to either entities.

Regardless of where the source code leak came from, this latest development seems to be the real deal, as evidenced by the unencrypted nature of the files and the wealth of information they contain.

One of the most intriguing discoveries within the leaked code is evidence of a two-player multiplayer mode that never made it to the final release. The code even mentions the now-defunct GameSpy service for online connectivity, as well as LAN play options - and it doesn't stop there.

The source code has also unveiled a treasure trove of cut features that paint a picture of an even more ambitious game than what was ultimately released. These include oil slicks forming under damaged cars, vehicle handling affected by various surface types (ice, oil, wet asphalt, mud, and grass), the ability to damage car tires with specific weapons, and even a first-person view mode that was ultimately scrapped due to technical limitations.

The leak has also provided a fascinating look into the development process, with numerous comments left behind by the game's creators. It's a rare peek behind the curtain of game development that humanizes the process and highlights the collaborative nature of creating such a complex game.

While no doubt interesting if entertainment, it makes sense to worry about the implications of this leak on Rockstar Games. Already, the management asked developers to return to office last year as development on_GTA 6_ramped up, presumably to avoid leaks like the one that happened in September 2022 or when it had to release the first_GTA 6_trailer ahead of time because someone leaked it online.

If this incident forces Rockstar to double down on security measures, it's fair to wonder if it will affect_GTA 6.Of course, this is all just speculation, and Rockstar nor Take-Two has yet to issue a statement regarding these leaks. In the meantime, modders and fans alike continue to pour over the contents of the_GTA: San Andreas leak.