The RC Goblin is one of those unique vehicles in the Grand Theft Auto series that many players find intriguing but often confusing. In GTA 5, as with previous entries like Vice City, San Andreas, and Liberty City Stories, the RC Goblin is a miniature remote-controlled helicopter that has its own quirks and limitations. This guide will break down how it works, its performance traits, and practical tips for players who want to get the most out of it.
What is the RC Goblin?
In design, the RC Goblin is a red, miniature helicopter with a rounded cabin and a small main rotor. Unlike the RC Raider, which looks slightly more aggressive, the RC Goblin is more of an original concept from Rockstar, without any real-life aircraft inspiration. Most players notice that it is slower than the RC Raider but feels more stable when flying, making it easier to control for beginners or for missions that require precision.
How Does the RC Goblin Perform?
Performance-wise, the RC Goblin is average. Its pitch and speed are moderate, so it won't win any races or chase sequences. However, one of the more interesting mechanics is that the spinning blades can be used for heli-kills on pedestrians. This is similar to the RC Raider, though the Goblin is less agile and cannot perform sharp maneuvers as effectively.
For practical gameplay, this means that the RC Goblin is usually better suited for missions requiring stability rather than speed or aggressive attacks. Most players find it easier to manage in tight spaces or when precise positioning is needed, such as hovering over targets or landing on small platforms.
Key Missions Featuring the RC Goblin
The RC Goblin has made notable appearances in several GTA titles:
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City – In the mission Demolition Man, the RC Goblin is equipped to carry and drop bombs. It can be temporarily kept after the mission if players duplicate the mission and sink one of the two Goblins. However, mishandling it—such as destroying it too early—can cause the game to crash.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – During the mission New Model Army, players control an RC Goblin with an electromagnet capable of carrying bombs and crude bridges. This version of the Goblin adds a layer of strategy as players must transport objects while navigating the helicopter’s limited agility.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories – The RC Goblin exists in the game files but does not spawn normally. Some beta content and high-pitched “door” sound effects hint at early testing and mechanics that didn’t make it into full release.
Special Considerations and Trivia
There are several interesting quirks to keep in mind when using the RC Goblin:
Game Mechanics – In earlier GTA titles, trying to enter the RC Goblin can cause your character to walk in circles or do nothing, as the vehicle lacks a proper entry point. In San Andreas, attempting to enter simply has no effect. These behaviors reflect Rockstar's playful approach to remote-controlled vehicles.
Texture and Colors – Unlike regular vehicles in GTA, the RC Goblin tends to stick to a set red color regardless of the textures assigned in game files. This has led most players to assume that the color is intentionally fixed for visual consistency.
Obtaining the Goblin – Outside of missions, the RC Goblin can sometimes be manipulated using mission duplication or glitches. Experienced players often take advantage of these methods to explore areas or experiment with the helicopter without affecting game progression.
Tips for Using the RC Goblin Effectively
Stability Over Speed: Because it is slower than the RC Raider, the RC Goblin works best when careful, steady flight is required.
Use in Missions: Missions like Demolition Man or New Model Army highlight the Goblin’s utility. Plan your flight paths in advance to minimize crashes.
Avoid Weapons While Flying: Shooting while controlling the RC Goblin can cause crashes in older GTA titles, so patience is key.
Explore Hidden Features: Players who enjoy experimentation often push the Goblin into water or off high platforms to trigger unique behaviors or discover mission glitches.
A Note on Online Variants
In GTA 5 Online, some players look for shortcuts or ways to access rare vehicles through alternative methods. For example, you might come across the term gta 5 modded accounts for sale on U4N marketplace. While this is mentioned in community discussions, most players are cautious about third-party marketplaces due to account security and the risk of violating game rules. In general, the safest approach is to enjoy the RC Goblin and other vehicles within the official game framework.
The RC Goblin is not the fastest or most powerful helicopter in GTA 5, but its unique design, stable controls, and mission-specific uses make it memorable for experienced players. Understanding its quirks, limitations, and the ways it has appeared across GTA titles can enhance your gameplay and give you more opportunities to experiment with creative strategies.
Whether you are revisiting GTA 5 missions or exploring classic titles like Vice City and San Andreas, the RC Goblin remains a small but interesting part of Rockstar’s vehicle lineup.