Grand Theft Auto V sets a new benchmark for open-world games with its intricate narrative, three distinct protagonists, and a living world of unparalleled detail and variety. The game's commitment to an immersive experience is evident in every aspect of its expansive, satirical portrayal of contemporary culture.
Grand Theft Auto V is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. Originally released in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the game has since been re-released for various platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. It is the fifteenth installment in the long-running Grand Theft Auto series, which is renowned for its expansive sandbox worlds and controversial content.
The gameplay of Grand Theft Auto V revolves around completing various missions in a fictional U.S. state called San Andreas, which is loosely based on California. Players can freely explore the massive world, either on foot or using a wide array of vehicles. The game offers a unique storytelling approach by presenting three different protagonists—Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—each with their own background, skills, and story arcs. Players can switch between these characters on the fly to complete different types of missions.
Grand Theft Auto V received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling, game mechanics, and attention to detail. It broke numerous industry records and has sold over 110 million copies worldwide as of 2021, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time. The game also spawned a highly popular online multiplayer mode, Grand Theft Auto Online, which has continually been updated with new content and has a large and active player community.
Despite its success, Grand Theft Auto V has been subject to controversy, particularly for its portrayal of violence and criminal activities. Nonetheless, it remains a landmark title in the history of video games, both for its technical achievements and its impact on popular culture.