The History of Grand Theft Auto
The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series is an acclaimed and popular video game series developed by Rockstar Games. The game has grown rapidly since its launch in 1997 and has become a staple in the gaming industry. The series is known for its open-world gameplay and the ability to freely explore vast and detailed virtual worlds.
The first Grand Theft Auto game was released in 1997 and was developed by DMA Design (later to become Rockstar North). The game is a top-down 2D game set in a fictional city based on New York City called Liberty City. The goal of the game is to complete a series of criminal missions including theft, robbery and murder while evading law enforcement.
The game received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising its open-world gameplay while others criticized its violence and disorientation. Despite mixed reception, the game was a commercial success and spawned two sequels, Grand Theft Auto II and Grand Theft Auto III.
Grand Theft Auto III, released in 2001, was a major turning point for the series. The game is the first to feature a full 3D open world environment and a main character, Cloud, with a backstory and personality. The game takes place in the fictional city named Liberty City, which is heavily inspired by New York City. Grand Theft Auto III was critically acclaimed for its innovative gameplay and immersive world, and is often considered one of the best video games of all time.
Following the success of Grand Theft Auto III, Rockstar Games released several other games in the series, including Grand Theft Auto: Vice City and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. These games continue to expand on Grand Theft Auto III’s open-world gameplay and engaging storyline.
In 2008, Rockstar Games released Grand Theft Auto IV, set in a fictional version of New York City called Liberty City. The game features a new protagonist named Niko Bellic who focuses on the city’s criminal underworld. The game has been widely praised for its realistic and immersive world, as well as its complex characters and storyline.
In 2013, Rockstar Games released Grand Theft Auto V, set in the fictional city of Los Santos after Los Angeles. The game features three playable protagonists, each with their own storyline, and is the first game in the series to feature online multiplayer. Grand Theft Auto V was a huge commercial success, breaking sales records and winning numerous awards.
Throughout its history, the Grand Theft Auto series has been controversial for its depiction of violence and criminal activity. However, the series has also been praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive worlds, and complex storylines. The series has influenced many other video games and has become a cultural phenomenon with millions of fans around the world.