How to Drift on GTA V: A Comprehensive Guide
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) is more than just a game—it’s an immersive experience that allows players to explore a vast open world, complete missions, and, of course, enjoy the thrill of driving. Among the many driving techniques players can master, drifting stands out as one of the most exciting and rewarding skills. Drifting in GTA V not only adds style to your gameplay but also helps you navigate the streets of Los Santos with precision and control. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to drift on GTA V like a pro, covering everything from the basics to advanced tips.
Understanding Drifting in GTA V
Before diving into the mechanics, it’s important to understand what drifting is. Drifting is a driving technique where the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to slide sideways. In GTA V, mastering this technique can help you take sharp turns at high speeds, avoid obstacles, and even earn style points in certain missions or races.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drifting in GTA V
Choose the Right Vehicle
Not all cars in GTA V are created equal when it comes to drifting. Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars are the best choice for drifting because they lose traction more easily than front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles. Some popular RWD cars for drifting include the Bravado Banshee, Overflod Entity XF, and Truffade Adder.
Tip: Customize your car with a suspension upgrade to improve handling and stability during drifts.
Find the Right Location
To practice drifting, you’ll need plenty of space. Empty parking lots, long straight roads, or even the race tracks at the Los Santos International Airport are great spots to hone your skills.
Adjust Your Settings
Before you start drifting, go to the game settings and adjust the Handling to “Classic GTA” or “Simulation.” These settings make the driving mechanics more realistic, which is ideal for drifting.
Initiate the Drift
To start a drift, accelerate to a moderate speed (around 30-50 mph), then suddenly turn in the direction you want to drift. At the same time, tap the brake or hit the handbrake (depending on your control settings) to lose traction in the rear wheels.
Pro Tip: If you’re using a controller, gently flick the analog stick in the direction of the turn while applying the brake. On a keyboard, use the arrow keys or A/D keys for steering and the spacebar for the handbrake.
Control the Drift
Once you’re sliding, ease off the accelerator and counter-steer by turning the wheels in the opposite direction of the drift. This will help you maintain control and keep the drift going.
Remember: The key to a smooth drift is balance. Don’t oversteer or slam on the brakes, as this will cause you to spin out.
Use Nitro for Speed
If you’ve equipped your car with nitro, use it to gain speed during or after a drift. This not only looks cool but also helps you recover from a drift and maintain momentum.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Drifting takes time to master, so don’t get discouraged if you spin out or lose control at first. Keep practicing, and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Advanced Drifting Tips
Use the Handbrake Wisely: The handbrake is your best friend when it comes to drifting. Use it to initiate drifts or correct your trajectory mid-drift. However, avoid holding it for too long, as this can cause you to lose speed.
Upgrade Your Car: Invest in upgrades like a better engine, transmission, and suspension to improve your car’s performance and handling.
Experiment with Different Cars: Each car in GTA V has a unique handling style. Experiment with different vehicles to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.
Best Cars for Drifting in GTA V
If you’re serious about drifting, here are some of the best cars to try:
Bravado Banshee: A classic muscle car with excellent drifting capabilities.
Overflod Entity XF: A high-end sports car that’s lightweight and easy to control.
Truffade Adder: A powerful supercar that’s perfect for high-speed drifts.
Karim Rashid Kraken: A sleek, customizable car with great handling for drifts.
Conclusion
Drifting in GTA V is a