'GTA Online' Update 1.19 Arrives; Festive Surprise Includes New Weapons, Vehicles, Clothing

gtaxmas 3 — Rockstar launched its new holiday update to "Grand Theft Auto Online" on Thursday evening. Courtesy/Rockstar

Rockstar quietly launched update 1.19 of "Grand Theft Auto Online" on Thursday, giving players a holiday surprise full of new weapons, proximity mines, snowy weather and new clothing. The developer usually launches updates on Tuesdays, so update 1.19, or "Festive Surprise," came as an early Christmas present.

In keeping with the Christmas spirit, the New York City-based developer added a holiday-themed wardrobe to the online, open-world action game, including ugly sweaters, new hats, scarves, masks and more. Snow is also coming to San Andreas, and Rockstar promises that players will even be able to engage in snowball fights.

gtaxmas1 — Deck the halls with new weapons in 'GTA Online.' Courtesy/Rockstar

One of the best parts of playing "GTA Online" is the vehicles, and the game is getting four new rides – a souped-up Hot Rod Christmas Ratloader, a bulky Slamvan, a flashy Massacro and a Jester sports car. Once players download the update, the vehicles will be theirs to keep.

Like Rockstar’s "Independence Day Special" update in July, players also will be able to use the Fireworks Launcher and rocket ammo for a limited period of time. Both items will be available from Christmas Eve until Monday, Jan. 5, and will be free on four days – Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

gtaxmas2 — Snow comes to Los Santos. Courtesy/Rockstar

Two new weapons also will be coming to the game – a homing missile launcher and proximity mines. These will be permanently in the game.

Christmas crate drops are coming to the game, too, loot that will be dropped frequently from now until Jan. 5, full of special in-game items for players to collect. Some even will include vintage “Grand Theft Auto” T-shirts as well as new clothing.

gtaxmas4 — Four new vehicles are currently available in 'GTA Online.' Courtesy/Rockstar

Players also will receive special gifts on Christmas next to their Christmas trees in their Los Santos houses and apartments, though Rockstar didn’t reveal what players would be receiving.

GTA Online's new Title Update (1.19 for PS3/Xbox 360, 1.05 for PS4/Xbox One) includes the ability to own a third property, as well as a number of in-game improvements.