GTA Vice City Beginner Guide — Tips & Tricks for New Players (2026)
New to GTA Vice City? Get essential tips, cheats, and strategies for the Definitive Edition in 2026. Master both islands and build Tommy's empire fast.
Starting GTA Vice City
GTA Vice City is one of the most beloved GTA games ever. Set in a neon-soaked 1986 Miami, you play as Tommy Vercetti building a criminal empire from nothing. This guide covers essential tips for first-time players and returning fans on the Definitive Edition.
Tip 1 — Explore Both Islands
Vice City has two main islands: Vice City Beach (east) and Vice City Mainland (west). The second island unlocks after the "Phnom Penh '86" mission. Explore both thoroughly — hidden packages, weapons, and vehicles are everywhere.
Tip 2 — Save Often
Save at your safe house after every completed mission. Vice City has some notoriously difficult missions (like the RC helicopter demolition mission). Saving prevents losing hours of progress.
Tip 3 — Buy Properties Early
Properties generate passive income. The Pole Position Club ($30,000) is the cheapest and easiest to activate — just spend $300 in the back room. See our Vice City Money Guide for all property details.
Tip 4 — Use Cheats for Frustrating Missions
Some missions are brutally hard. Use these cheats to make them bearable:
- ASPIRIN — Full health mid-mission
- PRECIOUSPROTECTION — Full armor
- PANZER — Skip driving missions with a tank