“Ranking the Grand Theft Auto Series: From Worst to Best”

Grand Theft Auto (1997)

grand theft auto 1997
Image: SportsKeeda

The 1997 release of the original “Grand Theft Auto” helped set open-world games as we know them in motion. With a top-down view, the game asked you to meet mission completions across three cities. It became a cult hit, thanks to its revolutionary open-world ideal, despite very basic graphics.

Grand Theft Auto II (1999)

GRAND THEFT AUTO 2
Image: Internet Archive

A sequel to the original “Grand Theft Auto”, Grand Theft Auto II” or expanded on the first by giving players a more polished experienced and more detailed contemporary graphics and maybe mechanics. The game was based in a city with deco look set in the future and it had an honor system where different gangs respected (or hated) you depending on your actions, which added strategic depth.

Grand Theft Auto III (2001)

GTA 3
Image: ebay

Grand Theft Auto III transformed the series to an open-world 3D environment and redefined it as a game of-boundless possibility. Based in the sprawling and diverse Liberty City, GTA IV was a giant leap forward in terms of both gameplay immersion and right at the time it set in for any video game narrative. Yet its critical and commercial success helped establish the future brand of the series and permanent status in gaming history.

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002)

GRAND THEFT AUTO VICE CITY
Image: IMDB

If anyone went to Miami in the 1980s, one of the first times is through Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which was also expanding on the introduction of 3D mechanics in GTA III. Which delivered a great narrative, in compelling universe, with memorable characters. It went on to be one of the most beloved entries in the franchise.

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004)

GTA SAN ANDREAS
Image: PDALIFE

The city was expanded to include suburbs as well as rural areas, and the game for the first time included other cities in the state of San Andreas. BOROS (BRETT MAREPHI)–The game introduced RPG elements, making it possible to upgrade your character’s abilities. This broader scale combined with a rich narrative made it a touchstone in the open-world genre.

Grand Theft Auto IV (2008)

GRAND THEFT AUTO IV
Image: SCREEN RANT

Well, “Grand Theft Auto IV” was the series’ first game in the HD era. This game took the place in Liberty City with a more serious tone and better graphics. The storyline focused on Niko Bellic, a foreigner making his way through the criminal world. It has been highly praised for its mature themes and world-building, as well.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013)

Image: Variety

Of all the Grand Theft Auto titles, there is no title wider in scope or commercial success than Grand Theft Auto V. It took place in the fictional state of San Andreas, and starred three protagonists against a painstakingly-realized world. The vast online portion of the game, “”GTA Online,”” is still going strong through regular updates and a huge player base.

The Grand Theft Auto series has always been a frontrunner with regard to open-world gaming and evolved storytelling. Each successive installment has expanded upon the previous, becoming more fully featured and solidifying its place in the zeitgeist.