The History of the GTA Franchise: How Rockstar Changed the Gaming World

The History of the GTA Franchise: How Rockstar Changed the Gaming World

If you’ve ever picked up a controller, chances are you’ve heard of GTA (Grand Theft Auto). This series from Rockstar Games has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1997. What started as a top-down action game where you ran missions and caused a little mayhem on the streets has evolved into one of the most immersive open-world franchises in gaming history.

Original GTA: Where it all began in 1997
Original GTA: Where it all began in 1997
Source: Steam 

The original GTA laid the foundation, but GTA III really changed the game. It introduced a 3D world, allowing players to explore a living, breathing city. From there, the franchise grew and improved with iconic releases like Vice City and San Andreas.

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City - Iconic Chapter in the GTA Legacy
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City - Iconic Chapter in the GTA Legacy
Source: GTA Fandom
 
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas - GTA's most beloved open-world experiences
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas - GTA's most beloved open-world experiences
Source: GTA Fandom 

When GTA V launched, Rockstar struck gold. Los Santos turned into a massive playground for millions of gamers. Players could seamlessly switch between three main characters, pulling off daring heists and stirring up online and offline chaos.

Then came GTA Online, with constant updates, new modes, and fan-driven content, ensuring the fun never stops. We’ve all spent hours cruising in our dream cars or setting up crazy stunt jumps 😎

The main characters of GTA V: Michael, Franklin and Trevor
The main characters of GTA V: Michael, Franklin and Trevor
Source: Pinterest

What About GTA 6?

Now let's talk about the highly anticipated game - GTA VI.

Rockstar Games has been teasing us about it for a long time, and it seems like it's going to be amazing. There are rumors going around that it might take place in Vice City again, with an even bigger map and really impressive graphics.

The hype is accurate, and it’s only a matter of time before we tear through the streets of this next-gen masterpiece.

GTA 6 Fan Art by Allkassar

Fan art by Allkassar imagining the highly anticipated GTA 6
Source: Deviantart

While waiting for GTA VI, why not revisit some of Rockstar’s grandest hits? Pick up a key for GTA V and jump straight into the chaos of Los Santos. Are you feeling nostalgic? GTA: San Andreas is a must-have, allowing you to relive the epic story of CJ and Grove Street.


As we await the release of GTA 6, it's clear that Rockstar Games isn't just about creating games — they build entire worlds we get lost in for hours. Whether you're a fan of the action, the storytelling, or just running wild in a massive open world, GTA remains one of the best franchises ever to hit our screens.

 

Rockstar Games Fan Art by Shawn Sepehry
Rockstar Games: The masterminds behind the GTA franchise
Source: Behance
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