Michael De Santa’s mid-life crisis takes an unexpected turn in Exercising Demons, a quirky Strangers & Freaks mission in GTA V. As he faces off against the eccentric Mary-Ann in a grueling footrace along the scenic boardwalk, Michael’s dwindling stamina becomes a test of both physical endurance and personal redemption. Can he outrun his demons—or will his past catch up to him?
Availability: Michael
Location: You need to talk to Mary Ann, who is preparing for her run in the Pacific Bluffs district, to the South-West of Michael’s house (the above screenshot).
This mission is quite unique in its course, because it is a race that is supposed to determine who will be the first to reach the finishing line on the beach. It is best to take up this mission only after you develop Michael’s stamina, although this is not necessary. Regardless of the circumstances of this mission, right after you start the race, jump over the balustrade shown in the screenshot, thanks to which you will make the course to the next checkpoint shorter.
The finishing line
Further into the race, keep dosing the moments of sprint and regular run, to prevent exhausting Michael prematurely. Note – after your stamina drops down entirely, Michael will still be attempting to sprint but his health bar will start to decline. Fortunately, if you play out well everything, this will not happen. The mission will be complete after you are the first one to reach the finishing line.
Rewards for the completion of the mission:
- New contact on Michael’s contact list: Mary Ann
Requirements for the completion of the mission in 100%:
- Contender – you need to win the race without taking shortcuts. What is interesting, the game is very lenient towards jumping over the balustrade right after the start so, you do not need to avoid doing that.
What makes Michael’s character so complex and intriguing
Michael De Santa from Grand Theft Auto V is a deeply complex and intriguing character due to his multifaceted personality, rich backstory, and internal conflicts. Here are the key elements that make him stand out:
1. A Dual Life: Crime vs Family
Michael is a retired bank robber living under witness protection in Los Santos. Despite his wealth and luxurious lifestyle, he struggles to reconcile his criminal past with his yearning for a normal family life. This tension creates an ongoing internal conflict, as he is drawn back into crime while trying to mend his strained relationships with his wife Amanda and children Jimmy and Tracy1.
2. Flawed Relationships
Unlike many protagonists, Michael has a family, but these relationships are dysfunctional. His wife is distant, his son is apathetic, and his daughter resents his involvement in her life. Yet, Michael remains loyal to them, striving for redemption despite their lack of affection1.
3. Inner Demons and Mental Health
Michael’s struggle with anxiety and depression adds depth to his character. His therapy sessions with Dr. Friedlander reveal his guilt and remorse over past actions, highlighting his vulnerability and humanity1.
4. Complex Friendships
Michael’s relationships with Franklin and Trevor further enrich his character arc. He mentors Franklin as a protege but faces tension as Franklin questions his motives. Meanwhile, Trevor represents the chaos of Michael’s past, leading to moments of loyalty mixed with conflict1.
5. Themes of Redemption
At his core, Michael embodies the theme of redemption. Despite his flaws and mistakes, he strives to do the right thing—whether by protecting friends or attempting to repair his family bonds—making him relatable and memorable1.
Michael’s character serves as a critique of materialism and the pursuit of the American Dream, showing how wealth and success can lead to dissatisfaction and moral compromise. His layered personality ensures players remember him long after completing the game1.
How does Michael’s internal conflict shape his decisions throughout the game
Michael’s internal conflict in Grand Theft Auto V—his struggle to reconcile his criminal past with his desire for a normal family life—profoundly shapes his decisions throughout the game. This duality drives much of his character arc and influences key moments in the story:
1. Torn Between Redemption and Relapse
Michael’s yearning for redemption often clashes with his inability to escape his criminal tendencies. For example, despite being in witness protection, he returns to a life of crime when his boredom and dissatisfaction with suburban life overwhelm him. This decision reignites old tensions and sets the stage for much of the narrative.
2. Family as a Motivator and Source of Conflict
Michael’s strained relationships with his wife Amanda and children Jimmy and Tracy push him to make decisions aimed at repairing these bonds, even when they conflict with his criminal activities. His internal guilt over neglecting his family drives him to protect them, but his methods often lead to further alienation.
3. Complex Relationships with Franklin and Trevor
Michael’s mentorship of Franklin reflects his desire for redemption, as he sees in Franklin a chance to guide someone away from the mistakes he made. However, this relationship becomes strained as Franklin begins questioning Michael’s motives. Similarly, Michael’s bond with Trevor forces him to confront the chaos of his past, leading to moments of loyalty mixed with betrayal.
4. Therapy as a Mirror of His Struggles
Michael’s therapy sessions with Dr. Friedlander highlight his inner turmoil, particularly his guilt, anxiety, and depression. These moments provide insight into how deeply his internal conflict affects his decision-making and sense of self-worth.
5. Thematic Exploration of the American Dream
Michael’s decisions reflect the broader theme of disillusionment with the American Dream. Despite achieving wealth and status, he remains unfulfilled, leading him to make choices that question whether material success can ever compensate for personal happiness or moral compromise.
Ultimately, Michael’s internal conflict not only shapes his personal journey but also serves as a lens through which players explore themes of identity, loyalty, and redemption in a morally ambiguous world.
