If you are a fan of open-world sandbox games, then you have definitely heard of the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise. With its massive open world, intricate storylines, and endless possibilities, it has become one of the most popular game series in the world. But with so many titles in the series, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones are worth playing. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this article, we will be ranking the top GTA games based on various criteria, including gameplay, story, graphics, and community feedback. We will also delve into the notable features and innovations that each game has brought to the table, as well as the future prospects for the franchise. So, get your controller ready and let’s dive into the world of GTA.
Criteria for Ranking GTA Games
Before we jump into the rankings, it’s important to establish the criteria for our list. These are the factors that we will be considering when evaluating each game in the series:
- Gameplay – This includes the controls, mechanics, and overall feel of the game.
- Story – A good storyline is crucial for any game, and GTA is no exception.
- Graphics – As technology advances, so do the visuals in video games. We will be looking at how each game holds up in terms of graphics.
- Fan Favorites and Community Feedback – We will take into account the opinions of the gaming community and consider which games are their favorites.
- Notable Features and Innovations – Each game in the series has brought something new to the table, and we will be discussing these innovations and how they have impacted the franchise.
Now that we have established our criteria, let’s get into the rankings.
Detailed Reviews of Each GTA Game
Grand Theft Auto III (2001)
The game that started it all, Grand Theft Auto III was a groundbreaking title that revolutionized the open-world genre. It was the first game in the series to use a 3D open world, and it introduced players to the fictional city of Liberty City.
Gameplay
In terms of gameplay, GTA III laid out the foundation for all future games in the series. The controls were smooth and intuitive, making it easy for players to navigate through the city and complete missions. The game also introduced a wanted level system, where players would gain stars depending on the severity of their crimes. This added an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game.
One of the most notable features of GTA III’s gameplay was the ability to steal and drive various vehicles around the city. From cars and motorcycles to boats and even helicopters, players had the freedom to explore the city in any way they wanted. This feature has become a staple in all subsequent GTA games.
Story
The story of GTA III follows the protagonist Claude as he navigates the criminal underworld of Liberty City. With no dialogue from the main character, the story is mainly driven through cutscenes and interactions with other characters. While the storyline may not have been as intricate as some of the later games, it still kept players engaged with its fast-paced action and unexpected twists.
Graphics
Considering it was released in 2001, GTA III’s graphics were impressive for its time. The 3D open-world was detailed and vibrant, and the character models were well-designed. However, compared to modern games, the graphics may seem outdated now.
Fan Favorites and Community Feedback
GTA III received rave reviews from both critics and fans upon its release. It has a Metacritic score of 97/100, making it one of the highest-rated games on the platform. Fans praised the game for its immersive open world and action-packed gameplay.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002)
Released just a year after GTA III, Vice City took the franchise to new heights with its 1980s Miami-inspired setting. The game follows the story of Tommy Vercetti as he rises through the ranks of the criminal underworld in Vice City.
Gameplay
Vice City built upon the gameplay of its predecessor and added new features such as motorcycles, helicopters, and the ability to purchase properties. It also introduced side missions and activities, giving players more options for exploring the city. The controls were similar to GTA III, making it easy for players to pick up and play.
One notable feature of Vice City was the inclusion of licensed music from the 1980s, which added to the overall atmosphere of the game. This feature has since become a staple in all future GTA games.
Story
The storyline in Vice City is one of its strongest aspects. With its references to popular movies and TV shows from the 80s, it had a unique charm that set it apart from other games in the series. The characters were also well-developed, adding depth to the storyline.
Graphics
Like its predecessor, Vice City’s graphics were impressive for its time. The 3D open world was even more detailed, and the character models were improved. However, compared to modern games, the graphics may not hold up as well.
Fan Favorites and Community Feedback
Vice City received universal praise upon its release, with many considering it to be the best game in the series at the time. It has a Metacritic score of 95/100, and fans raved about its nostalgic setting and engaging storyline.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004)
San Andreas took the concept of an open-world game to a whole new level with its vast map and multiple cities. It also delved into social issues, making it one of the most controversial games in the series.
Gameplay
San Andreas improved upon the gameplay of its predecessors by adding new features such as swimming, climbing, and customizable vehicles. It also introduced RPG elements, where players could improve their character’s stats by working out at the gym and eating healthy. These additions added depth to the gameplay and made it more immersive.
One of the most notable features of San Andreas was the introduction of gang warfare. Players had the option to recruit members for their gang and take control of territories in the game. This feature would later be expanded upon in future games.
Story
The story of San Andreas follows Carl Johnson, who returns to his hometown of Los Santos after the death of his mother. He gets pulled into a life of crime and must navigate through various rival gangs to uncover the truth behind his mother’s death. The storyline delves into themes of gang violence, corruption, and social issues, making it one of the most thought-provoking games in the series.
Graphics
San Andreas saw a significant improvement in graphics compared to its predecessors. The open world was more detailed, and the character models were more realistic. However, compared to modern games, the graphics may seem dated.
Fan Favorites and Community Feedback
San Andreas received universal acclaim from both critics and fans, with many considering it to be the best game in the series. It has a Metacritic score of 95/100, and fans praised its massive open world, engaging storyline, and improved gameplay mechanics.
Grand Theft Auto IV (2008)
After a gap of four years, GTA returned with its fourth installment, which took the series in a more serious and realistic direction. It also introduced a new protagonist, Niko Bellic, and a new setting – Liberty City.
Gameplay
GTA IV saw a significant overhaul in terms of gameplay. The controls were revamped, making them feel more realistic and weighty. It also introduced a cover system, which added a new dimension to the combat. However, some fans felt that the movement and driving mechanics were not as smooth as in previous games.
One notable feature of GTA IV was the inclusion of an online multiplayer mode, which allowed players to explore the city with their friends. This feature has become a staple in all future GTA games.
Story
The story of GTA IV was more serious and grounded compared to its predecessors. It followed Niko Bellic’s journey as he navigates through the criminal underworld of Liberty City and grapples with his past. The storyline was well-written and engaging, with memorable characters and unexpected plot twists.
Graphics
GTA IV saw a significant improvement in graphics, with highly detailed open-world environments and realistic character models. The game also introduced a new physics engine, which made the world feel more alive and interactive.
Fan Favorites and Community Feedback
Despite receiving critical acclaim upon its release, GTA IV received mixed reviews from fans. While some praised its improved graphics and storyline, others felt that it strayed too far from the formula of previous games. It has a Metacritic score of 98/100, making it one of the highest-rated games in the series.
Grand Theft Auto V (2013)
The most recent installment in the series, GTA V, took the franchise to new heights with its massive open world and three playable protagonists. It also introduced an online multiplayer mode, which became a huge hit among gamers.
Gameplay
GTA V built upon the gameplay mechanics of its predecessor and improved them in various ways. The controls were smoother, and the shooting and driving mechanics were refined. It also introduced new activities such as scuba diving, skydiving, and base jumping, which added more variety to the gameplay.
One of the most notable features of GTA V was the introduction of the “Switch” mechanic, which allowed players to switch between the three protagonists at any time. This feature added a new layer of strategy and made the game feel more dynamic.
Story
GTA V follows the story of three protagonists – Michael, Franklin, and Trevor – as they navigate through the criminal underworld of Los Santos. Each character has their own unique storyline and motives, and it all comes together in an epic finale. The storyline is well-written and engaging, with memorable characters and unexpected plot twists.
Graphics
GTA V saw a major improvement in graphics, with highly detailed open-world environments and realistic character models. The game also introduced a first-person mode, which allowed players to experience the game from a different perspective.
Fan Favorites and Community Feedback
GTA V received universal acclaim upon its release, with many considering it to be the best game in the series. It has a Metacritic score of 97/100, and fans praised its massive open world, engaging storyline, and improved gameplay mechanics.
Notable Features and Innovations in Each Game
Each game in the GTA franchise has brought something new and innovative to the series. Here are some notable features that have had a significant impact on the franchise:
- GTA III – The introduction of 3D open-world gameplay.
- Vice City – The inclusion of licensed music and a detailed storyline set in the 1980s.
- San Andreas – The massive open world, customizable vehicles, and gang warfare elements.
- GTA IV – The revamped gameplay mechanics and online multiplayer mode.
- GTA V – The introduction of three playable protagonists and the “Switch” mechanic.
Future of the GTA Franchise
The future of the GTA franchise looks bright, with Rockstar Games continuously pushing the boundaries of open-world gaming. While there are no official announcements, rumors suggest that the next installment, GTA VI, may return to Vice City and feature a female protagonist for the first time in the series. Only time will tell what exciting innovations and features the next game will bring.
Conclusion
The GTA franchise has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1997. With each new installment, it has continued to push the boundaries of open-world gaming and provide players with countless hours of entertainment. From its groundbreaking graphics and gameplay to its engaging storylines and memorable characters, this franchise has truly cemented its place in gaming history.
In this guide, we have ranked the top GTA games based on various criteria and discussed their notable features and innovations. We have also looked at the future prospects for the franchise. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this guide will help you navigate the world of GTA and choose which game to play next. So, grab your controller and start exploring the vast open worlds of Grand Theft Auto.
