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10 Greatest Grand Theft Auto Video Games
Collider has published a ranked list of the ten greatest Grand Theft Auto games, timed to build anticipation for the forthcoming Grand Theft Auto VI, which the outlet describes as one of the most eagerly awaited releases in gaming history. The list judges entries in the long-running Rockstar Games franchise on design, gameplay, narrative, originality, cultural influence and critical and fan reception, framing the ranking as essential viewing for players wanting context before GTA VI arrives.
The lower end of the countdown includes the original 1997 Grand Theft Auto, a top-down 2D game with no fixed protagonist that let players roam Liberty City, Vice City and San Andreas causing havoc; its 1999 sequel, Grand Theft Auto II, set in the fictional Anywhere City and notable for introducing a stronger narrative; and 2006's Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, a prequel following a disgraced soldier turned criminal, praised for improved graphics and expanded gameplay mechanics. The article notes these early titles, while historically important to the franchise's development, generally rank lowest against later, more polished entries.
In short
- Collider ranks the ten best Grand Theft Auto games ahead of GTA VI's release.
- Games judged on design, narrative, influence and critical/fan reception.
- Lowest-ranked entries include the 1997 original, GTA II and Vice City Stories.
Explained simply
Grand Theft Auto is a long-running video game franchise created by Rockstar Games that has been hugely influential in the gaming industry since its debut in 1997. The franchise is known for placing players in large fictional cities where they can explore freely, complete missions and engage in various activities within open-world environments. Significant renewed interest is expected with the forthcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI, one of the most eagerly awaited game releases in history.
The franchise has evolved considerably over nearly three decades, beginning as a top-down 2D game where players could roam fictional cities with minimal narrative or fixed protagonist. Subsequent entries progressively introduced more sophisticated graphics, complex storytelling and detailed main characters, with games such as the 2006 Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories winning praise for improved visuals and expanded gameplay options. The series has generally progressed by refining its core formula whilst building on elements that resonated with players and critics.
With the next instalment on the horizon, rankings and retrospectives of previous Grand Theft Auto games have become useful for both newcomers and returning players seeking context on the franchise's development. The games have long held a significant cultural place, attracting devoted fans whilst also sparking wider discussion about video game content and themes.