When Michael De Santa receives a frantic call from his son Jimmy, kidnapped by someone he trolled online, the stakes in Grand Theft Auto V’s optional mission “Parenting 101” skyrocket. Will you pay the ransom or take matters into your own hands, crashing through Banham Canyon to rescue the trouble-prone Jimmy? Dive into this chaotic yet heartfelt mission that highlights the lengths Michael will go to protect family—even when they’re their own worst enemy.
Additional mission – Parenting 101 general information
Way to unlock: You need to complete main mission 73 (Meltdown). Wait for a phone call from Jimmy, answer it and listen to the conversation.
Playable characters: Michael
Additional information: This one is a quite unique mission because it is optional and it does not count while calculating the current progress in the main plot. The premise of this one is that you help Jimmy who has got into trouble, of his own fault.
Additional mission – Parenting 101 full walkthrough
The moment of choice
Some time after the completion of mission 73, you should receive a phone call from Jimmy, while playing as Michael. During the conversation, you will learn that Jimmy was kidnapped by the persons that he offended online. At the very end of the conversation, you need to decide whether you want to help him or not, and it is a better option, of course, to select the former.
Lay down fire on the car but do not wound any of the passengers
The car that Jimmy is being held in is traveling across the wilderness in the central part of the map (Banham Canyon). After you come close to the SUV, start firing any weapon at it but, in accordance with the instructions that you get on the screen, try not to kill any of the abductors. After the car is sufficiently damaged, it should stop and the abductors will start running. Ignore them and, instead, return with Jimmy to the current living place of Michael’s family.
Rewards and challenges in Additional mission – Parenting 101
What makes the Parenting 101 mission unique compared to other GTA V missions
The “Parenting 101” mission in GTA V stands out due to its unique blend of humor, family dynamics, and optional gameplay elements. Here’s what makes it distinctive:
-
Optional Nature: Unlike most missions in GTA V, “Parenting 101” is entirely optional and does not affect the overall story progression or completion percentage, offering players a choice to engage with it or skip it entirely.
-
Focus on Family Dynamics: The mission highlights Michael’s strained relationship with his son Jimmy and showcases the lengths he will go to protect him, despite Jimmy’s flaws. This adds emotional depth and a personal touch rarely seen in other missions.
-
Humorous Premise: The storyline revolves around Jimmy being kidnapped by someone he trolled online, poking fun at internet culture and the consequences of trolling. This comedic setup is a departure from the game’s typically intense or action-oriented missions.
-
Player Choice: Players can decide whether to pay a ransom or physically rescue Jimmy by chasing down the kidnappers’ vehicle. This choice adds a layer of interactivity and moral decision-making not always present in other missions.
-
Simplistic Yet Entertaining Gameplay: The mission avoids complex mechanics, focusing instead on a straightforward car chase and rescue. However, its humor and dialogue make it memorable.
These elements combine to create a mission that is lighthearted yet meaningful, standing out as a refreshing break from the high-stakes chaos typical of GTA V.
How does the Parenting 101 mission impact Michael’s character development
The “Parenting 101” mission in GTA V contributes to Michael’s character development by showcasing his evolving role as a father and his willingness to protect his family, even when they frustrate or disappoint him. Here’s how it impacts his character:
-
Reinforcing Michael’s Protective Nature: The mission highlights Michael’s instinct to rescue Jimmy despite his son’s reckless behavior. This underscores Michael’s deep, albeit strained, love for his family and his commitment to their safety, reflecting his underlying moral compass.
-
Exploring Family Dynamics: The mission provides insight into Michael’s complex relationship with Jimmy. While Jimmy’s actions often exasperate Michael, the mission demonstrates that Michael is still willing to go to great lengths for him, adding emotional depth to his character.
-
Balancing Humor and Responsibility: By presenting a comedic premise—Jimmy being kidnapped due to online trolling—the mission juxtaposes humor with Michael’s serious responsibility as a father. This balance humanizes Michael and makes him more relatable.
Overall, “Parenting 101” deepens Michael’s portrayal as a flawed but caring father, emphasizing the tension between his criminal lifestyle and his desire to be a better parent.
