Introduction
Grand Theft Auto III, often referred to as GTA 3, is a groundbreaking action-adventure game developed by Rockstar North (formerly DMA Design) and published by Rockstar Games. It marked the series’ transition into the 3D era and introduced many features that would define the open-world genre for years to come. In this blog post, we will explore the release dates of GTA 3 across various platforms and regions.
Development and Initial Release
GTA 3 was announced in 2000 and was released on October 22, 2001, for the PlayStation 2. This release marked a significant shift in the series, moving from a top-down perspective to a fully 3D third-person view. The game was set in the fictional city of Liberty City, which was loosely based on New York City.
Release Dates by Platform
PlayStation 2
- Release Date: October 22, 2001
- Regions: North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The game was released on October 22 in North America and October 26 in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
PC
- Release Date: May 21, 2002
- Features: The PC version included additional features and enhancements, such as higher resolution textures and improved graphics.
Xbox
- Release Date: October 31, 2003
- Features: The Xbox version was released as part of the “Grand Theft Auto: Double Pack,” which also included GTA: Vice City.
Mobile Release
10th Anniversary Edition
- Release Date: December 15, 2011
- Platforms: iOS and Android
- Features: This mobile version was optimized for touch controls and included high-definition graphics. It was released to celebrate the game’s 10th anniversary.
Reception and Legacy
GTA 3 received widespread critical acclaim and is often cited as one of the most influential video games of all time. It set new standards for open-world games, with its immersive environment, engaging storyline, and innovative gameplay mechanics. The game’s success paved the way for future titles in the series and inspired many other developers to create open-world games.
FAQs
Is GTA 3 available on all platforms?
Yes, GTA 3 is available on PlayStation 2, PC, Xbox, iOS, and Android.
What are some notable features of GTA 3?
GTA 3 introduced a fully 3D open-world environment, third-person perspective, and a rich storyline set in the fictional city of Liberty City.
Stay tuned for more insights into the world of Grand Theft Auto!