Location of the checkpoint at the border between West and East Grestin.
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 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 checkpoint was opened, which allowed Arstotzkan citizens to return home and families to unite.[3] The checkpoint also provided another route for citizens from other countries to enter Arstotzka, some with valid intentions and papers and some who don't have either of those.
East Grestin
East Grestin is the part of the city that is on the Arstotzkan side of the border. Inspector's apartment, the Pink Vice brothel, and the Get Big Town gym are located in East Grestin. The city also has a subway system.[4]
West Grestin
West Grestin is comprised of the parts of the city that are under Kolechian rule. It is implied that conditions in West Grestin and Kolechia in general are not as good as in Arstotzka.[5][6]