In the vast expanse of the Grand Senora Desert, Michael De Santa embarks on a peculiar journey with the Epsilon Program in “Exercising the Truth,” a side mission that tests his endurance and devotion. As he runs five miles through the desert, clad in Epsilon robes, Michael inches closer to enlightenment, but at what cost? Dive into this guide to uncover the secrets of the Epsilon cult and navigate the challenges of this unique mission in Grand Theft Auto V.
Availability: Michael
Location: This mission becomes available after you complete the delivering the Truth side mission. Wait for a new marker to appear, which will let you know that there is another mission from the Epsilon cultists available (letter E on the world map), which will be located in the Grand Senora Desert, to the South of Sandy Shores. After you get there, approach the trailer shown in the screenshot and initiate the meeting with Marnie, Tom and jimmy.
The best solution is to run in circles
This mission is quite exhausting because it assumes that you make a pilgrimage of a kind, which is about covering five miles on foot. I recommend that you start running in circles (the game will notify you of the fact of entering the “pilgrimage grounds”). I recommend against straying into more desolate areas because you can be then attacked by a wild animal and you will have to start over.
Answer both phone calls from Cris
The game should inform you, on a regular basis, of your progress in this mission (every 0.1 miles) although covering the entire distance is a matter of running around for a dozen or so minutes. After some four miles you will receive a phone call from Cris who will motivate you to complete the pilgrimage. Run the last, fifth, mile thanks to which you will complete this mission.
What makes “Exercising the Truth” a unique mission in GTA 5
“Exercising the Truth” stands out as a unique mission in GTA 5 for several reasons:
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Unconventional Task: The mission requires Michael to run five miles through the Grand Senora Desert while wearing Epsilon robes. This task is unusual compared to the typical action-packed missions in GTA 5, focusing instead on endurance and patience.
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No Combat or Driving: Unlike most GTA missions, “Exercising the Truth” involves no combat or driving, making it a departure from the game’s usual fast-paced gameplay.
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Passive Completion Option: Players can choose to complete the mission passively by using a rubber band or a weighted object to hold down the run button, allowing them to leave the game running while they do something else.
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Story Integration: The mission is part of the Epsilon Program questline, which explores themes of cults and enlightenment, adding a layer of narrative depth to the game5.
What is the significance of running five miles in the desert during “Exercising the Truth”
The significance of running five miles in the desert during “Exercising the Truth” in GTA 5 lies in its narrative and thematic context:
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Narrative Progression: This mission is part of the Epsilon Program questline, which involves Michael De Santa’s involvement with a cult-like organization. The run symbolizes Michael’s commitment and endurance as he progresses through the cult’s rituals, aiming to achieve spiritual enlightenment or “quell his antithesis” as Cris Formage describes it.
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Thematic Exploration: The mission explores themes of devotion, endurance, and the absurdity of cult practices. By requiring Michael to perform a physically demanding task in isolation, the game highlights the cult’s emphasis on personal sacrifice and dedication.
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Character Development: The mission contributes to Michael’s character development, showing his willingness to engage in bizarre activities for the sake of the cult, which reflects his vulnerability and search for meaning.
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Gameplay Innovation: The mission offers a unique gameplay experience, diverging from the typical action-oriented missions in GTA 5. It challenges players to endure a prolonged, non-combat task, which can be seen as a commentary on the monotony and dedication required in real-life cults.
