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Grand Theft Auto III

Grand Theft Auto III is a 2001 action-adventure video game developed by DMA Design and published by Rockstar Games.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Grand Theft Auto III is a 2001 action-adventure game developed by DMA Design and published by Rockstar Games. It is the first 3D entry in the series, set in Liberty City, and follows Claude's story of betrayal and revenge.

What it is

Grand Theft Auto III is an open-world action-adventure game set in Liberty City, a fictional city loosely based on New York. Players control Claude, a silent protagonist, as he navigates the city on foot or in vehicles, completing missions and exploring the environment. The game marked the series' transition from 2D to 3D.

Why it matters

The game is widely regarded as a landmark title that transformed the Grand Theft Auto series and influenced open-world game design. Its 3D world, nonlinear gameplay, and mature story set a new standard for the industry. It is often cited as one of the most influential video games of the early 2000s.

Key details

Originally released for PlayStation 2 in October 2001, it later came to Windows (2002) and Xbox (2003), with additional ports to mobile and modern consoles. In Canada, the PC version was listed for release on May 21, 2002. The plot centres on Claude seeking revenge after being betrayed by his girlfriend during a robbery.

In short

  • Released October 2001 for PlayStation 2
  • First 3D entry in the Grand Theft Auto series
  • Set in Liberty City, a fictional New York
  • Follows Claude, a silent protagonist seeking revenge
Canadian angle

Grand Theft Auto III was released in Canada as part of the North American launch window, with the PC version listed for Canada on May 21, 2002.

Quick questions

When was GTA 3 released?
Grand Theft Auto III was first released in October 2001, beginning with the PlayStation 2 version.
What is the plot of GTA 3?
The game follows Claude in Liberty City after he is betrayed and left for dead during a robbery. He works through the city’s criminal underworld while seeking revenge.
Who is the main character in GTA 3?
The main character is Claude, a silent protagonist.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Theft_Auto_III
    Supports: Developer, publisher, setting, plot, original release window, and original platforms.
  2. Wikidata — https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q149106
    Supports: Basic identification of the game as a 2001 open world action-adventure video game.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0277723/releaseinfo/
    Supports: Canada PC release date listed as May 21, 2002.
  4. GTA Wiki — https://gta.fandom.com/wiki/Grand_Theft_Auto_III
    Supports: Original platforms and later platform releases.