Grand Theft Auto: How the controversial game changed the industry 26 years ago

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Introduction

Grand Theft Auto, or GTA, is one of the most successful and influential video game franchises of all time. The series, which spans 15 titles and numerous spin-offs, has sold over 350 million copies worldwide and generated billions of dollars in revenue. GTA is known for its open-world gameplay, where players can explore, drive, shoot, and commit crimes in a realistic and immersive environment. The series has also been praised for its storytelling, satire, and cultural references.

The first game

But how did it all start? The first game in the series, simply titled Grand Theft Auto, was released in 1997 by a Scottish developer called DMA Design, which later became Rockstar North. The game was originally conceived as a racing game called Race'n'Chase, but the developers decided to add more freedom and violence to the gameplay after testing it. The game was set in three fictional cities inspired by real ones: Liberty City (New York), Vice City (Miami), and San Andreas (San Francisco). The player could choose from eight characters and complete various missions for different criminal gangs, or just roam around the city and cause chaos.

The impact

The game was a commercial success, selling over 10 million copies and spawning two expansion packs: London 1969 and London 1961. The game was also a critical success, receiving positive reviews from critics who praised its innovation, humor, and gameplay. However, the game also faced controversy for its depiction of violence, crime, and sex. The game was banned in some countries and faced lawsuits from politicians and activists who claimed it encouraged antisocial behavior and glorified criminality. Despite the controversy, or perhaps because of it, the game attracted a large fan base and established a new genre of video games: the sandbox or open-world game.

The legacy

The first Grand Theft Auto game laid the foundation for the future of the series and the industry. The game introduced many elements that would become staples of the GTA formula: a large and detailed map, a variety of vehicles and weapons, a nonlinear and mission-based structure, a radio system with different stations and genres, a wanted level system that attracts police attention, and a tongue-in-cheek tone that parodies American culture and media. The game also influenced many other games that followed its footsteps, such as Driver, Mafia, Saints Row, Sleeping Dogs, Watch Dogs, and more. Grand Theft Auto is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential video games of all time.