The Origins of Grand Theft Auto: A Look Back at the First Game
When did Grand Theft Auto 1 come out?
The answer to this question is March 31, 1997, when the first installment of the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series was released for the PlayStation console. Developed by DMA Design and published by Rockstar Games, Grand Theft Auto 1 revolutionized the open-world gaming experience and set the stage for the iconic franchise we know today.
The Prequel: The Early Years of DMA Design
DMA Design, a Scottish game development studio, was founded in 1987 by Gary Carr, David Jones, and Mike Dailly. The studio’s early success came with the creation of the Lemmings series, which became a huge hit in the early 1990s. However, as the studio grew, its developers began to explore new ideas and genres, which would eventually lead to the creation of Grand Theft Auto.
The Birth of Grand Theft Auto
In the early 1990s, David Jones, one of the founders of DMA Design, was inspired by the open-world gameplay of Fahrenheit 451 (1984) and the 3D graphics capabilities of the 3DO console. He wanted to create a game that would allow players to explore a 3D environment, complete with a crime-ridden city and a variety of vehicles to control. The concept was revolutionary, and Jones began working on the game in secrecy.
The Game’s Development
Grand Theft Auto’s development was a lengthy and challenging process. The game was initially designed for the 3DO console, but due to its limited market share and technical issues, the studio decided to port the game to the PlayStation instead. The development team consisted of around 20 people, who worked tirelessly to create the game’s 3D environments, characters, and storyline.
The Gameplay
Grand Theft Auto’s gameplay was a significant departure from traditional 3D games of the time. Players took on the role of Claude, a character who had been betrayed by his girlfriend and was seeking revenge. The game featured open-world exploration, where players could roam freely through the city, completing missions and engaging in various illegal activities. The game’s vehicular combat and stealth gameplay mechanics added depth and variety to the experience.
The Release and Reception
Grand Theft Auto was released on March 31, 1997, and received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s innovative gameplay mechanics and 3D environments, while others criticized its graphics and sound quality. Despite this, the game became a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Impact and Legacy
Grand Theft Auto’s impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. The game’s open-world design and free-roaming gameplay mechanics inspired a new generation of developers and set the stage for the creation of other influential games, such as The Sims and San Andreas. The game’s success also laid the foundation for the growth of Rockstar Games, which would go on to create some of the most successful and critically acclaimed games of all time.
Timeline of Grand Theft Auto 1’s Development
- 1992: David Jones begins working on Grand Theft Auto in secret
- 1993: DMA Design is established as a separate studio from DMA Design
- 1994: The game is ported to the PlayStation console
- 1995: The game is completed, but still suffers from technical issues
- 1996: The game is re-released with improved graphics and sound
- March 31, 1997: Grand Theft Auto is officially released for the PlayStation
Conclusion
Grand Theft Auto 1 may seem like a relic of the past, but its influence on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, 3D environments, and open-world design set the stage for the creation of some of the most successful and critically acclaimed games of all time. Whether you’re a fan of the series or just curious about its origins, Grand Theft Auto 1 remains an important milestone in gaming history.
Table: Grand Theft Auto 1’s Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Open-world exploration | Roam freely through the city, completing missions and engaging in illegal activities |
| Vehicular combat | Control various vehicles and engage in combat with enemies |
| Stealth gameplay | Use stealth mechanics to evade detection and complete objectives |
| 3D environments | Explore 3D environments with detailed graphics and sound design |
| Storyline | Play as Claude, seeking revenge against his betrayed girlfriend |
Bullets List: Grand Theft Auto 1’s Impact
• Influenced the creation of open-world games
• Introduced 3D environments to mainstream gaming
• Set the stage for the growth of Rockstar Games
• Inspired the creation of other influential games
• Provided a new level of player freedom and agency
