Like its predecessor, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) version of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories includes a local multiplayer mode supporting up to six players in close proximity using Wi-Fi ad hoc connection.
These multiplayer modes are exclusive to the PSP version and do not appear in the PlayStation 2 port of the game.
Players can select from over 60 characters models, unlocking additional models and islands as they progress through the single-player storyline. Multiplayer initially begins on the Vice City Mainland, with other islands becoming available later.
The game offers 10 multiplayer modes, with five returning from GTA Liberty City Stories and five new additions. Power-ups such as Radar Invisibility, Mega Damage, Frenzy, Health Boost, Sticky Tires, and Instant Repair enhance gameplay variety.
Vice City Survivor
Vice City Survivor is the Vice City counterpart to Liberty City Survivor. It functions as a free-for-all deathmatch where players compete to eliminate each other. The winner is the first player to reach a set number of kills or the player with the highest score when time expires. Players may also compete in teams known as “gangs.”
Protection Racket
In Protection Racket, opposing gangs have conflicting objectives:
- Attackers must destroy four limousines at the enemy base.
- Defenders must protect the limousines until the timer runs out.
When the round ends, the teams switch roles and play continues until one side wins.
Street Rage
Street Rage is a competitive racing mode where players must navigate through checkpoints and reach the finish line first. Players can switch vehicles mid-race or attack opponents using weapons. Eliminated players are automatically respawned after a brief delay.
Two power-ups assist racers:
- Sticky Tires – temporarily improves handling.
- Instant Repair – restores vehicle condition immediately.
The Hit List
The Hit List randomly selects one player as the Mark while others become hunters. The hunters must eliminate the Mark as quickly as possible. When the Mark is killed, a new player takes their place. Each player’s survival time as the Mark determines their final score, with the longest total survival time winning the match. The Mark's vehicle gradually takes damage over time.
Taken for a Ride
Taken for a Ride functions similarly to the Capture the Flag mode seen in other multiplayer games. Players must steal the opposing team’s car and return it to their base. The first team to gain control of both gang cars at their own base wins the match.
Tanks for the Memories
In Tanks for the Memories, players compete to seize control of a Rhino tank and survive for as long as possible. If the player in the tank reaches the target Tank Time, they win the round. Other players must destroy the tank before that time. Once destroyed, the player who caused the most damage gains control of the next tank. The process repeats until a player achieves the required Tank Time.
Might of the Hunter
In Might of the Hunter, players race to reach the Hunter attack helicopter. The player who acquires it must use the helicopter to eliminate all other players, while the others attempt to destroy the Hunter before they are taken out.
Empire Takedown
Empire Takedown pits two teams against each other, each defending their own building or base. A single set of explosives is hidden on the map. Teams must locate the explosives, plant them at the enemy’s base, and then defend the bomb until the timer expires. If the bomb detonates successfully, the attacking team wins; if it’s defused, the defenders claim victory.
V.I.P. R.I.P.
In V.I.P. R.I.P., two teams - attackers and defenders - compete over a VIP player. The VIP, part of the defending team, must collect five briefcases (one spawning after another) and reach an escape point. If the VIP escapes, the defenders win; if the VIP is killed, the attackers are victorious.
Grand Theft Auto
Grand Theft Auto mode challenges players to steal and deliver specific vehicles around the city. Cars in better condition upon delivery yield higher cash rewards. When the timer expires, the player with the most money wins.
