New Highlights of the Grand Theft Auto Series: Exploring the Growth of a Gaming Franchise

The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series holds an esteemed position as one of the most respected video game franchises in history. Developed by Rockstar Games, each installment has consistently set new benchmarks in the gaming industry. The entire series has sold a staggering 410 million copies to date, and the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 has only heightened the anticipation, with expectations of surpassing this remarkable record.

While we eagerly anticipate the arrival of this highly anticipated sequel, which is scheduled to hit the market in 2025, let’s take a fresh look at five of the most significant hits in the Grand Theft Auto series that have already been released. This insightful list is based on the number of copies sold and offers an alternative perspective on these beloved games.

5) Grand Theft Auto III

Grand Theft Auto III, introduced to the gaming world over two decades ago in October 2001, revolutionized the industry by shifting the GTA series into the 3D realm. This groundbreaking release significantly propelled the franchise forward.

The game boasted a vast open-world map for its time, providing players with unprecedented freedom when compared to other titles in the same genre. Grand Theft Auto III sold an impressive 14.5 million copies, securing its position as the fifth biggest hit in the series.

4) Grand Theft Auto Vice City

Released in 2002 as a sequel to Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto Vice City built upon the success of its predecessor and expanded its core elements. The addition of a voiced protagonist, a first for the series, transported players to the vibrant era of the 80s.

With its memorable characters, iconic soundtrack, and a map inspired by the city of Miami, aptly named Vice City, this title garnered immense popularity among fans. Interestingly, Vice City is set to make a comeback as a part of the GTA 6 map, albeit with a few aesthetic changes. Over 17.5 million copies of Grand Theft Auto Vice City have been sold, earning it a spot as the fourth biggest hit in the series.

3) Grand Theft Auto IV

Grand Theft Auto IV marked a significant technological advancement when compared to its predecessors. This release featured enhanced visual effects and physics that aimed for a more realistic experience. Moreover, the storyline deviated from the series’ conventional themes, adopting a dark and gritty tone.

Although some players were initially hesitant to embrace these changes, the well-developed protagonist, compelling storyline, and meticulous attention to detail propelled GTA 4 to tremendous success, selling over 25 million copies.

2) Grand Theft Auto San Andreas

Released in 2004, Grand Theft Auto San Andreas is arguably the most beloved entry in the series. This game pushed the boundaries of hardware capabilities at the time and presented players with a multitude of realistic gameplay features. It introduced a vast map consisting of three cities and showcased unforgettable characters.

Even in comparison to contemporary video games, few manage to achieve the level of immersion that San Andreas offers. Consequently, it stands as the second biggest hit in the Grand Theft Auto series, having sold over 27.5 million copies.

1) Grand Theft Auto 5

In 2013, Grand Theft Auto 5 elevated the series to new heights in terms of visual effects and gameplay features when compared to GTA 4. The introduction of three playable protagonists, each with their distinctive personality, backstory, and special abilities, further enhanced the gaming experience. The game reached an unprecedented success, becoming the best-selling title within the Grand Theft Auto franchise, with approximately 190 million copies sold.

One must take into account that a significant contribution to this immense triumph is the multiplayer mode, Grand Theft Auto Online. Rockstar Games consistently releases new DLCs and updates for the multiplayer mode, providing players with fresh content and entertainment while they eagerly await the launch of GTA 6.