Grand Theft Auto V's story mode concludes with a choice that determines the fate of Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. The final mission presents three options, each with different outcomes and consequences. This guide explains what happens in each ending and helps you decide which to choose. For the full story walkthrough, see our comprehensive guide.

The Setup

By the final mission, the trio's relationship has fractured. Trevor has learned of Michael's betrayal years earlier. Franklin is caught between loyalty to both. The FIB and Devin Weston are hunting them. The game presents three choices: kill Michael (Option A), kill Trevor (Option B), or attempt to save both (Option C—Deathwish).

Your choice affects which characters remain playable after the credits. Choosing A or B permanently removes one protagonist from the game. Option C keeps all three—and is considered the canonical ending, as evidenced by Michael's return in GTA Online.

Option A: Kill Michael

Franklin sides with Trevor and kills Michael. Trevor survives; Michael dies. Franklin rationalizes the choice, but it's the darkest option—betraying the character who mentored him. Michael's family is left without him. Trevor and Franklin continue, but their partnership feels hollow without the trio's balance.

Michael's properties and vehicles become inaccessible. His storyline concludes tragically. Most players avoid this option—Michael, despite his flaws, is sympathetic, and killing him feels wrong for Franklin's character arc.

Option B: Kill Trevor

Franklin sides with Michael and kills Trevor. Michael survives; Trevor dies. Trevor's death is violent and final. Michael and Franklin reconcile, but Trevor's absence leaves a void—he was the unpredictable wild card that made the trio dynamic. Michael's family remains intact; Franklin keeps both mentors' approval, in a sense.

Trevor's properties and vehicles become inaccessible. His storyline concludes abruptly. Some players choose this for pragmatic reasons—Trevor is the most chaotic and dangerous of the three. Others find it unsatisfying given Trevor's loyalty to Franklin.

Option C: Deathwish (Save Both)

Franklin refuses to choose and devises a plan to save both Michael and Trevor. The trio reunites to take down their enemies—the FIB, Merryweather, and Devin Weston. This is the most challenging ending mission but the only one where all three survive. It's also the canonical ending, as GTA Online's continuity assumes Michael and Trevor both survived.

All three protagonists remain playable. The ending provides closure—the trio, despite their conflicts, chooses each other over outside pressure. It's the most satisfying conclusion narratively and gameplay-wise.

Which Ending to Choose

Option C (Deathwish) is the recommended choice. It preserves all characters, aligns with GTA Online canon, and provides the most complete resolution. The mission is harder but achievable—coordinate with Michael and Trevor during the finale. Use our weapons guide and vehicles guide to prepare.

If you want to experience alternate endings, save before the final mission and reload to try each option. Option C remains the "true" ending for continuity with GTA Online and future content.

Conclusion

GTA 5's ending choice has lasting consequences. Deathwish (Option C) is the canonical and most satisfying outcome—all three protagonists survive and the story concludes with the trio intact. For more GTA 5 Mobile guides and GTA 6 coverage, visit our homepage.