The Albany Hermes. A name that evokes images of classic Hollywood glamour, roaring engines, and a certain air of understated cool. Introduced to GTA Online as part of the festive 2017 update, the Hermes quickly carved a niche for itself as a stylish and customizable vehicle, instantly recognizable and beloved by many. But the question remains: what exactly is the Albany Hermes designed after? While Rockstar Games rarely provides direct confirmations of inspiration, a closer look at its design elements, its name, and its place within the GTA universe reveals a compelling story of automotive heritage.
This article will delve deep into the Albany Hermes, exploring its potential real-world inspirations, its in-game features, its customization options, and the various discussions surrounding the car within the GTA Online community. We'll examine its connection to GTA Vice City, address common issues like the "Albany Hermes not working" problem, and consider the overall reception of this classic ride. Let's buckle up and take a drive down memory lane, uncovering the secrets behind the Albany Hermes.
Unraveling the Design Inspirations: A Blend of Classic American Muscle and Luxury
The Albany Hermes is a masterclass in design, seamlessly blending the characteristics of several iconic vehicles from the mid-20th century. While no single car perfectly mirrors the Hermes, the overall aesthetic leans heavily towards the following:
* 1936-1937 Cord 810/812: This is arguably the most significant influence on the Hermes. The Cord 810/812 was a revolutionary car for its time, boasting features like front-wheel drive, hidden headlamps, and a distinct coffin-nose hood. The Hermes shares a similar overall shape, particularly the sloping hood, the curved fenders, and the general art deco styling. The Hermes' distinctive grille, while not identical, echoes the Cord's unique design.
* 1937 Delahaye 135: Another French marque with a strong influence, the Delahaye 135 was renowned for its elegant and aerodynamic styling. The Hermes incorporates elements of the Delahaye's flowing lines, particularly in the rear fenders and the overall silhouette. The long wheelbase and the low-slung profile also contribute to the Delahaye influence.
* Various 1930s American Sedans: The Hermes also borrows elements from other American sedans of the era, such as the Auburn Speedster and certain models from Packard and Duesenberg. These cars were known for their imposing size, their luxurious interiors, and their powerful engines. The Hermes captures this sense of grandeur and power.
The Hermes, therefore, isn't a direct replica of any single vehicle. Instead, it's a carefully crafted pastiche of various design elements from the golden age of automotive styling. Rockstar Games has expertly blended these influences to create a vehicle that is both instantly recognizable and uniquely its own.
The Hermes in GTA Online: Features, Customization, and Performance
The Albany Hermes is more than just a pretty face. In GTA Online, it offers a range of features and customization options that make it a worthwhile addition to any player's garage.
* Performance: While not the fastest car in the game, the Hermes boasts respectable performance. Its acceleration is decent, and its handling is surprisingly nimble for a vehicle of its size. It's not a race car by any means, but it's more than capable of holding its own in freemode and casual races.
* Customization: The Hermes shines when it comes to customization. Los Santos Customs offers a wide array of options, allowing players to personalize their Hermes to their liking. These options include:
* Bodywork: Front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and various trim options.
* Engine: Performance upgrades to improve acceleration and top speed.
* Exhaust: A variety of exhaust tips to change the car's sound and appearance.
* Lights: Xenon headlights and custom taillights.
* Livery: A selection of liveries to add unique graphics and designs to the car. This is where the "glitched livery" mentioned in the prompt comes into play. Certain players discovered methods to apply liveries that were not normally available, resulting in unique and highly sought-after designs.
* Paint: Primary and secondary paint colors, allowing for a wide range of color combinations.
* Wheels: A vast selection of wheels to choose from, ranging from classic wire wheels to modern alloys.
* Interior: Seat covers, dashboard trim, and steering wheel options to customize the interior.
* Availability: The Hermes was originally available for purchase from Benny's Original Motor Works during the Festive Surprise 2017 event. After the event, it became available for purchase from Southern San Andreas Super Autos. Keep an eye out for potential discounts and special events that may offer the Hermes at a reduced price.
The Hermes in GTA Vice City: A Precursor to the Online Classic