Samp

SAMP, short for San Andreas Multiplayer, is a multiplayer modification for Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. It enables players to join dedicated servers that run custom game modes and persistent online worlds beyond the game’s built-in multiplayer options. The project is community-driven and uses a client–server architecture: a modified GTA: San Andreas client connects to a separate SA-MP server that hosts scripts and enforces gameplay rules.

The client typically runs on Windows, while SA-MP servers are available for Windows and Linux. Server operators write game modes and administrative tools using a Pawn-based scripting language, accessing a server API that manages players, vehicles, objects, and events. This API supports features such as economy systems, permissions, anti-cheat measures, and customization of gameplay. Servers are diverse, with common modes including roleplay, freeroam, racing, and various minigames; many communities also develop frameworks to standardize rules and features across servers.

History and development: SA-MP was released in 2006 by a team of developers and quickly attracted a large community of players and modders. Over the years, thousands of servers appeared, each hosting its own rules, missions, and customization. While official development has slowed, the project continues to be maintained by volunteers, and the client and server software remain in use by many servers today.

Impact: SA-MP significantly shaped the GTA modding ecosystem by enabling user-created multiplayer experiences around San Andreas. It fostered communities, tutorials, and shared resources that extended the game’s lifespan beyond its original multiplayer offerings.