Why is Franklin the BEST character in GTA 5? 🤔 He might not be the most flashy, but he’s got qualities that make him stand out from the rest!
When Grand Theft Auto V was released in 2013, it introduced three distinct protagonists: Michael De Santa, Trevor Philips, and Franklin Clinton. Each character had their own unique backstory, personality, and motivations. While Trevor and Michael undoubtedly brought their own form of chaos and charisma to the game, it’s Franklin Clinton, the game’s more grounded and relatable character, who truly stands out as the best of the three.
In a game where over-the-top action and unpredictable storylines dominate, Franklin offers a refreshing take. His journey of self-discovery, his struggle to escape the constraints of his environment, and his desire for a better life make him the most complex and sympathetic character in GTA 5. Here’s why Franklin Clinton deserves the title of the best protagonist in Grand Theft Auto V.
1. Franklin’s Relatable Backstory
Unlike the other two protagonists, Franklin’s story begins in a far more relatable place. He’s not a retired criminal or a complete psychopath — Franklin is a young man trying to escape the gang life he’s been trapped in for years. Raised in the rough neighborhoods of Los Santos, Franklin starts the game working as a repo man for a shady car dealership. His life is a mix of low-paying jobs, petty crime, and the constant pressure to stay afloat.
Franklin is the embodiment of someone who wants better for himself. Unlike Michael, who is already wealthy but dissatisfied with his life, and Trevor, who is a chaotic force with no desire for normalcy, Franklin’s ambition and drive for success are rooted in his desire to escape the environment that has held him back.
This relatability is what makes Franklin stand out from the other protagonists. Michael and Trevor are both products of their pasts, with deep psychological scars and wild personalities. Franklin, on the other hand, is a character whose aspirations and struggles align with those of many players. He is trying to break free from the constraints of his upbringing and find a better future, making his journey feel more personal and grounded in reality.
2. Franklin’s Character Growth
Franklin’s character arc is one of the most compelling aspects of GTA 5. At the start of the game, he is caught in the cycle of street life — making money through illegal means and working dead-end jobs for little payoff. However, as the game progresses, Franklin begins to change, and players see his ambition turn into action.
Through his interactions with Michael and Trevor, Franklin is exposed to a world of wealth, crime, and power, but unlike Michael, who is driven by greed, or Trevor, who thrives on chaos, Franklin starts to question the life he’s living. The contrast between his earlier life and his growth throughout the game is evident. As he becomes more involved with Michael and Trevor, Franklin begins to realize that the flashy, violent lifestyle that they lead is not the answer to his problems.
In the end, Franklin’s arc is one of self-awareness and growth. He is the character who recognizes the importance of making the right choices — whether that’s choosing between loyalty to his friends or pursuing a more legitimate path. Franklin’s development from a street hustler to a more self-aware, responsible individual makes him a much more relatable and admirable character compared to the other two protagonists, who are more consumed by their pasts and chaotic actions.
3. Franklin’s Morality and Sense of Justice
Another reason Franklin stands out as the best character in GTA 5 is his moral compass. While the game is known for its chaotic, often immoral actions, Franklin is the only protagonist who consistently shows a sense of right and wrong. He often finds himself in situations where he must choose between doing what’s easy and doing what’s morally right.
This is especially clear when Franklin is tasked with making a difficult choice towards the end of the game. In the mission The Third Way, Franklin is faced with a decision that could impact the lives of his two friends, Michael and Trevor, who both represent different sides of his own internal conflict. Franklin’s decision to take the morally correct path — to attempt to save both of his friends, despite the risks — shows that his character has evolved into someone who seeks a resolution that doesn’t rely on mindless violence.
In comparison to Michael, who is deeply flawed and selfish, and Trevor, who is devoid of any moral consideration, Franklin’s clear sense of justice makes him stand out as the most grounded and thoughtful character of the three.
4. Franklin’s Relationship with Other Characters
Franklin’s relationships with Michael and Trevor play a significant role in his character development. Unlike Michael and Trevor, who have their own twisted dynamic, Franklin’s relationships are more about learning from others and forging his own path.
His mentorship under Michael is especially important, as Michael provides Franklin with a glimpse into a life of wealth and privilege. However, Franklin doesn’t blindly follow in Michael’s footsteps. Instead, he learns from Michael’s mistakes and becomes disillusioned with the extravagant lifestyle that Michael leads. While Michael represents the discontentment that comes with wealth, Franklin represents the desire for success without the baggage of greed or corruption.
His relationship with Trevor, on the other hand, is more volatile. Trevor is chaotic and unpredictable, often putting Franklin in dangerous situations. However, Franklin’s ability to deal with Trevor’s madness — while still maintaining his sense of morality — shows how much Franklin has matured throughout the game.
At the heart of Franklin’s relationships is the idea that he is constantly learning from the people around him but remains determined not to fall into the same destructive patterns. This ability to grow and make decisions based on his experiences with others makes Franklin a dynamic and well-rounded character.
5. Franklin’s Role in GTA 5‘s Story
Franklin’s role in GTA 5 isn’t just important because of his character development — it’s also crucial to the game’s central narrative. While Michael and Trevor are driven by their pasts, Franklin’s fresh perspective and ambition are what ultimately bring them together. Franklin acts as the bridge between Michael’s old life and Trevor’s chaotic existence, offering a more grounded approach to the problems they face.
Additionally, Franklin is the only character who is truly open to change. He represents the possibility of redemption, not only for himself but for the other characters as well. His ability to make the right choices and rise above his circumstances provides a sense of hope in a game filled with crime, violence, and betrayal.
6. Franklin’s Legacy in GTA 5
As GTA 5 continues to be played by millions around the world, it’s clear that Franklin Clinton is more than just a protagonist — he’s the heart of the game. While Trevor and Michael are memorable in their own right, it’s Franklin who offers the most relatable and inspiring story of growth and self-discovery. He’s a character that players can empathize with, not just because of his background but because of his desire for change and his determination to rise above his circumstances.
Conclusion: Franklin Clinton — The Best Character in GTA 5
While Trevor and Michael are both iconic in their own ways, it’s Franklin Clinton who truly shines as the best character in GTA 5. His relatable backstory, moral integrity, and personal growth throughout the game make him the most well-rounded and compelling character of the trio. Franklin’s journey from a young man trying to escape his environment to a self-aware, responsible individual offers the most satisfying arc in the game.
In a world filled with chaos, violence, and betrayal, Franklin represents the possibility of redemption and success, making him the best character to root for in GTA 5. His story is a reminder that even in the darkest corners of Los Santos, there’s always room for growth and change.
