Sidetracked
After a surprise encounter, Trevor and Franklin track down a rogue train in a bid to secure a valuable payload.
“Sidetracked” is a mission in Grand Theft Auto V that highlights the teamwork between Trevor Philips and Franklin Clinton as they attempt to intercept a moving train carrying precious cargo. This mission tests the players’ driving and shooting skills while introducing key mechanics related to heist planning, emphasizing the balance between chaos and strategy in the world of GTA V.
Mission Overview
“Sidetracked” follows Franklin as he assists Trevor in orchestrating a train heist. The goal is to steal valuable cargo from a moving train, which requires precise execution and careful planning. Players navigate various challenges, including Law Enforcement interference and keeping control of the situation once the heist is underway.
Objectives
- Locate and board the train at the designated meet-up point.
- Disable the train’s Security systems to gain access to the cargo.
- Secure the shipment and eliminate any threats that arise.
- Make a successful getaway without attracting too much attention.
Setting
This mission takes place on the outskirts of Los Santos, primarily along train tracks where the heist occurs. The rugged terrain and the moving train create a dynamic environment filled with tension and excitement, emphasizing the urgency and danger of the heist.
Walkthrough
Objective 1: Meet the Train
- Preparation: The mission begins with Franklin and Trevor preparing to intercept the train transporting valuable cargo. Gather your gear and head to the designated location.
- Dialogue: Engage in conversations with your crew, revealing their thoughts about the plan and the risks involved.
Objective 2: Setup the Ambush
- Positioning: Players must choose strategic Locations for Franklin and Trevor to set up the ambush, maximizing effectiveness against the train’s Security.
- Timing: Wait for the right moment when the train arrives to execute the plan, ensuring both Characters are in sync.
Objective 3: Stop the Train
- Franklin’s Role: Control Franklin to drive alongside the train and prepare for the next steps:
- Take out guards or use stealth to avoid detection.
- Signal Trevor to proceed with the operation.
- Trevor’s Role: Control Trevor to execute the following:
- Use explosives to derail the train.
- Ensure minimal harm to civilians while managing the chaos.
Objective 4: Secure the Cargo
- Access the Train: Once the train is stopped, players must board it and take control of the situation.
- Collect Cargo: Loot the valuable items from the train while staying alert for Law Enforcement interference.
Objective 5: Make Your Escape
- Getaway Plan: After securing the cargo, players must devise a quick getaway:
- Choose an escape vehicle and navigate the terrain to avoid police pursuit.
- Use back roads and alleys to throw off pursuing Law Enforcement.
- Teamwork: Use coordination between Franklin and Trevor to cover each other’s backs and ensure a successful escape.
Mission Conclusion
- Wrap Up: After escaping, regroup with Trevor and discuss the heist’s success. A cutscene will highlight their victory and the ramifications of their actions.
- Rewards: Completing the mission grants cash rewards and advances Franklin’s and Trevor’s storylines, impacting future Missions based on choices made during the heist.
Trivia
- The mission’s setting on a moving train introduces unique gameplay mechanics, adding variety to the traditional heist setup.
- Players need to balance aggression and stealth, as being too overt or too quiet can cause the mission to fail.
- Different Crew Members can be selected for this mission, with each one bringing different skills that can affect the mission’s outcome.
- The soundtrack adds a thrilling atmosphere to the mission, enhancing the tension during the heist.
- “Sidetracked” introduces the game’s train system, which can be used strategically in later Missions.
- The mission allows for multiple approaches, leading to varied endings depending on player choices and performance.

Mission Name | Sidetracked |
Playable Characters | Franklin, Trevor |
Primary Objective | Steal a train car and escape with the cargo |
Location | Train Tracks, Los Santos outskirts |
Mission Type | Heist Preparation Mission |
Difficulty | Medium |
Time Limit | None |
Required Equipment | Vehicle with good speed, Weapons |
Enemies | Train Guards, Police |
Cutscenes | Several cutscenes during the mission |
Rewards | Cash, Story Progression |
Replayable | Yes |
Mission Fail Conditions | Franklin or Trevor dies, Get caught by the police, Fail to secure the train car |