GTA

Grand Theft Auto (1997) – The beginning of a gaming revolution.

Grand Theft Auto, often simply called GTA, is the legendary game where it all began. Released in 1997 by the Scottish studio DMA Design (later Rockstar North), this top-down action game set new standards for freedom, chaos, and controversy in the world of gaming.

Although it’s visually far from the modern GTA titles, this classic still has its charm and historical value – especially for fans who want to experience the series’ roots.

Gameplay and features

In the original GTA, you play an unknown criminal climbing the ranks of the underworld. You do this through missions that range from car theft and drug smuggling to assassinations and wild car chases.

The game offers:

• Three open cities: Liberty City, Vice City, and San Andreas
• Over 200 missions you can take on freely
• Top-down perspective with arcade-style controls
• A punky ’90s vibe and satirical social commentary

The core gameplay is simple but addictive – and the freedom to follow missions or just create chaos was groundbreaking at the time.

Graphics and design

Visually, the game is a top-down 2D experience with pixel art and a retro color palette. It may not be beautiful by modern standards, but the raw, digital aesthetic perfectly matches the game’s anarchic tone.

The audio is filled with fictional radio stations, punchy sound effects, and simple but effective sound design.

Challenges and controls

The game can be tough – both because you start with very little information and because the controls are quite sensitive. But that’s part of the charm. The doors are open from the first second, and it’s up to you how you want to play. That makes GTA an early pioneer of the open-world sandbox genre.

Strengths and weaknesses

Even today, Grand Theft Auto (1997) can be enjoyed for its historical value, free-form gameplay, and wild ideas. However, be prepared for the fact that it’s a product of its time – with clunky controls, primitive graphics, and a lack of tutorials.

Download GTA free directly from Rockstar Games here

Top five tips and tricks for GTA (1997)

🔒 Save often
In GTA (1997) there’s no autosave – and death lurks around every corner. That’s why it’s crucial to save your game regularly. Use the phone booths to secure your progress, especially after successful missions. A small mistake can send you back to the start, and it’s frustrating to lose half an hour of playtime because of one bad decision.

🚗 Steal quickly and discreetly
When you spot a car you want, act immediately – but stay discreet. If you hesitate or sit too long in traffic, the police will notice you fast. Use side streets and back alleys to avoid patrols, and learn to identify the fastest cars by their shape and color.

🛣 Don’t always follow the mission
GTA (1997) is a sandbox game, and some of the most memorable moments happen when you experiment. Set your own goals: cause traffic jams, pull off car stunts, or try to survive with a 6-star wanted level. It’s in the free-form chaos that the game truly comes alive.

🗺 Know the map – it can save your life
The cities (inspired by New York, Miami, and San Francisco) each have their own structure and hidden shortcuts. The better you learn the layout, the easier it becomes to complete missions and evade the police. Identify gas stations, safe spots, and strategic escape routes.

😎 Don’t panic during car chases
When the police are on your tail, keep a cool head. Use the handbrake to take sharp turns and exploit the city’s layout to your advantage. Cross bridges, use tunnels, and avoid open roads where you can get boxed in. Panic almost always leads to arrest or death – and there’s no mercy in this game.