Grand Theft Auto III is an iconic open-world action-adventure video game developed by DMA Design (now Rockstar North) and published by Rockstar Games. Released in 2001, Grand Theft Auto III revolutionized the gaming industry with its immersive 3D world, engaging storyline, and unrestricted gameplay. Set in the fictional Liberty City, a vast urban landscape inspired by New York City, the game introduced players to a new level of freedom, exploration, and criminal activity. 

Grand Theft Auto III takes place in Liberty City, a sprawling metropolis filled with diverse neighborhoods, towering skyscrapers, and seedy underbellies. The game follows the story of Claude, a silent protagonist who finds himself betrayed and left for dead during a bank heist. Seeking revenge, Claude becomes embroiled in a web of crime, corruption, and power struggles within Liberty City's criminal underworld. The gripping narrative, filled with memorable characters and unexpected twists, drives the player forward in their quest for redemption and survival.

Grand Theft Auto III introduced players to an unprecedented level of freedom within a vast open-world environment. Liberty City serves as a sandbox for exploration and interaction, offering countless opportunities for mayhem and mischief. Players can roam the city streets, hijack vehicles, engage in criminal activities such as robberies and carjackings, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of a living, breathing urban landscape. The ability to choose missions and undertake tasks at their own pace provides an unparalleled sense of immersion and agency.

Grand Theft Auto III offers a diverse range of missions and tasks that propel the story forward while allowing players to experience the various aspects of criminal life. Missions range from simple tasks like delivering packages to complex heists and assassinations. The game seamlessly blends action, stealth, driving, and shooting mechanics, ensuring an engaging gameplay experience. Players can also take on side activities, such as taxi driving, vigilante missions, or simply causing chaos in the city streets.

One of the standout features of Grand Theft Auto III is the extensive collection of vehicles available for players to drive and explore the city. From sports cars to motorcycles, trucks to helicopters, each vehicle has its own unique handling characteristics. The ability to hijack any vehicle on the streets adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the gameplay. Whether it's speeding through traffic, engaging in high-speed chases, or launching off ramps, the variety of vehicles amplifies the thrill of exploration and crime.

Grand Theft Auto III immerses players in the vibrant atmosphere of Liberty City with a diverse soundtrack and in-game radio stations. Playing in vehicles, these radio stations feature a wide range of music genres, from hip-hop and rock to reggae and classical tunes. The inclusion of humorous advertisements, talk shows, and entertaining radio hosts complements the immersive experience and adds depth to the game world.

Grand Theft Auto III made a significant impact on the gaming industry and popular culture as a whole. It popularized the open-world genre, setting the benchmark for future games in the series and inspiring countless imitations. The game's realistic and immersive environment, along with its controversial themes and unapologetic portrayal of criminal life, sparked debates about the role of video games in society. Despite the controversies, Grand Theft Auto III left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, becoming one of the most influential and beloved titles of its time.

Grand Theft Auto III represents a paradigm shift in the gaming industry, redefining the possibilities of open-world gameplay and storytelling. With its sprawling urban landscape, gripping narrative, and unrestricted freedom, the game challenged players to embrace their inner criminal and navigate the dangerous world of Liberty City. Grand Theft Auto III's innovative features, memorable characters, and immersive gameplay have solidified its status as a classic and a cornerstone of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. Step into the shoes of Claude and experience the thrill, chaos, and freedom that Grand Theft Auto III offers in its groundbreaking virtual world.

In this guide, we will explain the basics of playing Grand Theft Auto III and provide tips to help you navigate the criminal underworld of Liberty City.

Controls and Movement:

Familiarize yourself with the controls to navigate Liberty City smoothly. Use the analog stick or directional buttons to move your character. The Circle/B button allows you to perform actions such as sprinting, entering vehicles, or attacking. Use the X/A button to jump or climb, and the Square/X button to perform context-specific interactions.

Exploring Liberty City:

Liberty City is a vast open-world environment divided into three boroughs: Portland, Staunton Island, and Shoreside Vale. Each borough has its distinct neighborhoods, landmarks, and challenges. Spend time exploring the city streets, alleys, and rooftops to discover hidden areas, collectibles, and secrets. Be mindful of the police presence, as committing crimes can lead to law enforcement pursuing you.

Missions and Storyline:

Progress through the game by undertaking missions that drive the storyline forward. Speak with characters marked on the map with a letter or symbol to trigger missions. Follow mission objectives, indicated by markers on the map or compass, to complete tasks such as heists, deliveries, assassinations, or protection missions. Successfully completing missions unlocks new areas, weapons, and opportunities.

Wanted Level and Police:

Engaging in criminal activities can raise your wanted level. The police will pursue you based on the severity of your offenses. The wanted level is indicated by stars on the screen, with higher levels attracting more aggressive police responses. Evade the police by hiding in alleyways, changing vehicles, or using Pay 'n' Spray locations to change your vehicle's appearance and lose the wanted level.

Weapons and Combat:

Acquire weapons from various sources, such as gun shops, police officers, or enemies. Access your weapon wheel to cycle through available weapons and equip them for combat. Aim and shoot using the targeting system, and take cover to protect yourself from enemy fire. Be cautious during combat, as injuries can lead to character death or arrest.

Vehicle Gameplay:

Grand Theft Auto III offers a wide range of vehicles to drive, from cars and motorcycles to boats and helicopters. Approach a vehicle and press the Circle/B button to enter it. Use the analog stick or directional buttons to steer, and the R1/RB button to accelerate. Mastering vehicle controls is essential for missions involving races, chases, or timed deliveries.

Side Activities and Collectibles:

Engage in side activities to earn additional rewards and enhance your gameplay experience. These activities include vigilante missions (taking down criminals), taxi driving, ambulance missions (saving injured people), and paramedic missions (providing medical aid). Search for hidden collectibles such as hidden packages, unique jumps, or rampages scattered throughout Liberty City to unlock bonuses and achievements.

Radio Stations and Music:

Immerse yourself in the rich atmosphere of Liberty City's radio stations. While in a vehicle, tune in to different radio stations to enjoy a variety of music genres, talk shows, and comedic skits. Select your preferred station by cycling through them using the L1/LB or R1/RB buttons. The radio adds depth to the game world and enhances the immersive experience.

Customization and Unlockables:

As you progress through the game, you'll unlock additional features and customization options. These include new weapons, vehicles, outfits, and even properties you can purchase. Spend your hard-earned money wisely to enhance your gameplay experience and make your mark on Liberty City.

Challenges and Achievements:

Complete challenges and achievements to test your skills and unlock additional rewards. These may include accomplishing specific tasks, attaining high scores in mini-games, or completing missions under specific conditions. Meeting these challenges adds extra depth and longevity to the game.