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Checkpoint map

Location of the checkpoint at the border between West and East Grestin as shown in the intro cutscene.

Grestin film

Map of Grestin on the wall in the short film adaptation.

Grestin is a separated border city, with West Grestin being part of Kolechia and East Grestin being part of Arstotzka. The current border that divides the city was established after or during the Six-Year War between the two countries.

The game description on the official site states that Arstotzka has "reclaimed its rightful half" of Grestin,[1] implying that the city was split between the two countries but was annexed by Kolechia at some point. The Kolechian occupation is referenced later on day 27 when Arstotzka is willing to further cede Grestin.[2] Regardless of the original owner, it is not stated whether the city was divided during the war or in the aftermath.

When the new border was established, many Arstotzkan citizens had to remain in Kolechia as no one was allowed to cross for six years.[3] Finally, on November 23rd, 1982, a border checkpoint was opened, which allowed Arstotzkan citizens to return home and families to unite[3]. The checkpoint also provided another route for entrants from other countries to enter Arstotzka, some with valid intentions and papers and some who do not have either of those.

The city is based on the real-life Berlin, which was divided between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. [4]

East Grestin[]

East Grestin is the part of the city that is on the Arstotzkan side of the border, in which the game is set on. Explicitly mentioned places in East Grestin are the inspector's apartment, the Pink Vice brothel, and the Get Big Town gym. The city also has a subway system.[5] There are places for the inspector to purchase food and medicine and a place for detained immigrants.

West Grestin[]

West Grestin is comprised of the parts of the city that are under Kolechian rule, and not much is known about the city. Sergiu implies that conditions in this side of the city and Kolechia in general are not as good as in Arstotzka.[6][7]

References[]

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