Grand Theft Auto

Otherwise known by the simple abbreviation GTA, Grand Theft Auto can certainly be called one of the most classic video games ever created.

While we should always note that GTA gained a slightly jaded reputation for its realistic depictions of violence, this did not stop millions of fans from enjoying hours upon hours of game play. Having been originally developed by Rockstar Games for the PlayStation console, Grand Theft Auto has now migrated into the world of the personal computer. It is even able to be downloaded for free through many reputable third-party sites. For those who may not be familiar with this series, it is wise to take a look at what the original GTA has to offer and a handful of the reasons why it is so very popular.

Getting Behind the Wheel

One of the fundamental reasons why Grand Theft Auto proved to catch on so quickly is that the developers took the idea of the first-person shooter to the next level. In many ways, GTA combined the traditional concept of the driving game with the ability to exit the car, interact with other personalities and even change vehicles when desired. Other actions such as acquiring and using firearms, fighting with other avatars and causing mayhem while on foot were not lost on fans. This led to many players being able to literally take such a virtual gaming experience into their own hands. However, the fun does not stop here.

Above the Law?

Grand Theft Auto stirred a significant amount of attention from conservative groups which claimed that the ability for a player to thwart the efforts of police during their journey was setting a bad example. In fact, this was the very same aspect which has drawn countless fans to this platform for well over a decade. During the adventures offered, the player will have the ability to evade police vehicles, SWAT vans and even the occasional helicopter. By ramming other vehicles, the driver will score more points which can be used to purchase upgrades and complete different missions. Along the way, players can interact with other personalities within the game. Grand Theft Auto can therefore be looked at as just as much of a role-playing game as it is a racing platform.

Graphics, Audio and More

Although some may consider the graphics on the original Grand Theft Auto to appear a bit "dated", the majority of players actually enjoy this rather retro appeal. Such renderings will remind them of the halcyon days when PlayStation and PlayStation 2 had just emerged. The same cannot be said about the music choices that are available. This was always one of the more attractive qualities of GTA. Not only are classic hits from the 1980s included as standard, but the driver has the ability to sift through seven different radio stations while cruising the streets. The advertisements and the songs all appear quite real although they were constructed from the developers at Rockstar games. On a final note, there are three missions which take place in three different locations. These are Vice City, San Andreas and Liberty City. This change of scenery is a welcome addition when compared to having to complete mission after mission within the same environment. There is always something new in Grand Theft Auto and so-called "Easter eggs" are hidden throughout different levels. This only adds to the very real challenge of the game while providing untold hours of enjoyment.

System Requirements

Another massive benefit to be observed is that Grand Theft Auto is compatible with numerous operating systems. These include Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows 2000 and Windows NT. Newer versions such as Windows 7 and Windows 8 will also support this system.

Registration is absolutely free as is the download itself. Please note that a screen resolution of at least 1900 x 1200 pixels is recommended for the best graphical rendering. The file size of this game is 328.4 megabytes. While this is much smaller than more recent versions of GTA, it is still wise to make certain that the memory capacity of the computer will accommodate this platform. DirectX 8.0 or higher is required, as this can help maximise the memory allocated on the computer while simultaneously assuring that no system crashes or buffering will occur during game play.

The End Verdict

There is no doubt that the original Grand Theft Auto has become a staple of the gaming community. Still, let us compile a brief list of some of the benefits and a few (if any) of the potential drawbacks that players have observed.

Pros

• An excellent soundtrack
• Unsurpassed feelings of freedom when playing
• An intriguing storyline
• The ability to interact with other elements

Cons

• A rather "dated" feel to the graphics
• Less freedom of movement when compared to the later versions of GTA