The Ballad of Rocco

In a bid to take out a troublesome former associate, Michael and Trevor become embroiled in a dangerous conflict involving Rocco and the film industry.

“The Ballad of Rocco” is a pivotal mission in Grand Theft Auto V where Michael De Santa seeks revenge on Rocco Pelosi, a pushy film producer who has been causing problems for his friend Solomon Richards. The mission highlights themes of loyalty, betrayal, and how Michael’s Hollywood life intertwines with his criminal past.

The mission “The Ballad of Rocco” involves Michael and Trevor confronting Rocco Pelosi, who has been bullying Solomon Richards, a producer at Richards Majestic. Michael takes matters into his own hands to deal with Rocco once and for all, leading to a fast-paced chase and shootout. This mission emphasizes Michael’s struggle to balance his film industry dreams with the dangerous realities of his past.

Objectives

• Go to Richards Majestic Film Studio.
• Confront Rocco Pelosi and his bodyguard.
• Chase and eliminate Rocco.
• Return to Solomon’s office to wrap up the mission.

Setting

This mission takes place in the heart of Vinewood at the Richards Majestic Film Studio and later transitions to the streets of Los Santos for a high-speed chase. The Locations highlight the glitzy yet dangerous world of Vinewood, contrasting with the violence and crime that Michael and Trevor bring to it.

Objective 1: Head to Richards Majestic

• Start the Mission: The mission begins when Solomon Richards calls Michael for help dealing with Rocco Pelosi, who has been threatening him over the film project. Head over to the film studio to meet Solomon.
• Dialogue: After arriving, Solomon explains the situation, and Michael decides to take action against Rocco.

Objective 2: Confront Rocco and His Bodyguard

• Confrontation: Michael and Trevor approach Rocco, who is arguing with Solomon. After a heated exchange, Rocco and his bodyguard make a run for it.
• Prepare for the Chase: Players must be ready to pursue Rocco as he escapes through the studio lot and out into the streets of Los Santos.

Objective 3: Chase and Eliminate Rocco

• Pursue Rocco: Chase Rocco and his bodyguard through the streets. Use any available Vehicles to keep up with them. Be prepared for a fast-paced pursuit with several sharp turns and traffic hazards.
• Neutralize Rocco: Once you catch up, you’ll have to take out Rocco and his bodyguard to complete the mission. Use your vehicle to knock them off the road or engage them in a shootout.

Objective 4: Return to Solomon’s Office

• Wrap Up: After eliminating Rocco, head back to Solomon’s office. A cutscene will play where Michael reassures Solomon that Rocco is no longer a threat. This marks the end of the mission.
• Rewards: The mission rewards players with story progression and increased rapport with Solomon, setting the stage for further developments in Michael’s Hollywood storyline.

• Rocco Pelosi is a recurring character in the GTA series, having first appeared in *The Ballad of Gay Tony* (GTA IV).
• This mission is a nod to Michael’s dual life — caught between his passion for film and his past as a criminal.
• The dialogue between Michael and Solomon reflects Michael’s inner conflict about pursuing a peaceful, legitimate career versus his violent tendencies.
• Rocco’s bodyguard is a tough opponent who will try to fend off Michael with force during the chase.
• Players can take different approaches to neutralize Rocco, including shooting him during the chase or ramming his vehicle off the road.