User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1725 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. JasonD.
    Mar 3, 2003
    10
    Where else can you steal a fast car, shoot up thugs, and run over old ladies all in a matter of seconds?
  2. FredericksburgC.
    Oct 19, 2002
    10
    One. Of. The. Best. Games. Ever. FACT.
  3. AlexW.
    Jun 2, 2002
    10
    Ok, i have seen, and played this game. It is in my opinion, the best game out there. I am thinking about buying a ps2 just for gta3. if you do not like it, or rate it under a 9(8-0) you need to be beaten to a bloody plup, and feed to man eating gang members. HA Ha Ha!!!
  4. RingoE.
    Sep 13, 2002
    10
    Best Game ever!, great story line, almost no moving bounderies and incredible variety. Recommended!
  5. AdityaS.
    Jan 29, 2005
    10
    G-R-E-A-T! Thats all I can say. I know its bad for children and it is not useful but the game entices us so so deeply that we are fascinated and we end up playing the entire game even though we say that is not good for our children.
  6. DanielV.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    I first played it on PS2 and couldn't get enough. When I saw it on PC, me being a PC gamer, I *bought* it without hesitation. At first, I was sorta flustered about the lock-on system, or, rather, lack thereof, but after a while, I came to find the aiming system was far better. Rockstar made the right move. And with the option of skins, mods, and the very cool mp3 radio station, it I first played it on PS2 and couldn't get enough. When I saw it on PC, me being a PC gamer, I *bought* it without hesitation. At first, I was sorta flustered about the lock-on system, or, rather, lack thereof, but after a while, I came to find the aiming system was far better. Rockstar made the right move. And with the option of skins, mods, and the very cool mp3 radio station, it makes the PC version better than even its PS2 counter-part. Expand
  7. NickS.
    Nov 10, 2002
    10
    This game is the best game iv ever played.
  8. ErenK.
    Oct 7, 2002
    10
    Hey can some 1 tell me how to get rid of of sqares when u are playing the game its really anoying. I cant finish the 4th mission.
  9. TimH.
    Jul 26, 2002
    10
    This is the greatest non-sports game on Playstation 2 as of right now. It'll probably change when the second one comes out, but of course we'll all have to treat the original Grand Theft Auto 3 just as we would the original Godfather. The sequels were good, but the original started it off and will ALWAYS be a classic.
  10. VidM.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    What can I say? You gotta play the game to realize that the hype isn't only all true but actually doesn't do the game justice. The world is so organic/chaotic that there are always several ways to complete a mission that the developers probably never even considered. One of the few games I've ever played where it's just and fun and addicting to lose as it is to win.
  11. Zedman
    Jun 12, 2004
    10
    What a ride! I loved GTA3 and think all the others, even the older ones where you look from above, were real good. I cant wait for GTA San Andreas and hope it doesn't stop there.
  12. BeckyB.
    Dec 15, 2006
    10
    I GTA3 I started to play this game and found it has great graphics challanging objectives and it's just peer adictive. I could sit and play for hours..lol tell my legs cramp up. Any how I give GTA3 a ten GO GTA3.
  13. RyanC
    Jan 16, 2008
    10
    This game was my favorite for a long time, and still is one of my favorites. Maybe it can't stand up to more recent releases of the GTA series, but for its time, best of the best.
  14. HarshP.
    Jul 18, 2002
    10
    Y cant i can download in my computer?
  15. MateuszM.
    Jul 19, 2002
    10
    Po prostu hit ostatnich lat.Doskonale dopracowana na ospowiednim poziomie.Producentom bardziej zale¿a³o na jako?ci ni¿ na tempie wydania gry i zysku...ode mnie jak najbardziej 10 szczególnie za grywalno?æ!
  16. AndrewMc
    Mar 28, 2004
    10
    I bought this based on the ratings on this site - not because it was really my sort of game. It just looked too good to ignore. My first GTA experience and I am hooked - line and sinker thrown in! It's easy to learn and has a great depth of missions and superb pacing of player skill development. A huge playground to explore. Different experience every single time! And what about that I bought this based on the ratings on this site - not because it was really my sort of game. It just looked too good to ignore. My first GTA experience and I am hooked - line and sinker thrown in! It's easy to learn and has a great depth of missions and superb pacing of player skill development. A huge playground to explore. Different experience every single time! And what about that soundtrack...unbelievable! Truly the best game I have played! Expand
  17. AnonymousMC
    Sep 21, 2009
    10
    one word Masterpiece....I think the main reason why
    upgraded my pc twice is that game...beyond being
    very demanding on u r pc if u can max everything u will really feel like u are there...so many details and so much ingenuity has been put on this game that if i had a choice of only one pc game for the rest of my life...this would be the one cause there so much possibilities beyond
    one word Masterpiece....I think the main reason why
    upgraded my pc twice is that game...beyond being
    very demanding on u r pc if u can max everything u
    will really feel like u are there...so many details and
    so much ingenuity has been put on this game that if i had a choice of only one pc game for the rest of my life...this would be the one cause there so much possibilities beyond the storyline...waiting desperatly for an extension on this game for pc...
    just amazing...
    Expand
  18. DanielM.
    Dec 18, 2002
    10
    It has great graphics and better then G.T.A vice city!!!!!
  19. Dec 23, 2014
    10
    I didn't get to play this game (or any game in the series) until 2012, when it was so cheap on a Steam sale, I wanted to see what all of the hype was about. GTA III turned out to be one of the best, most innovative games that I have ever played. I quickly logged hundreds of hours in the game, most of them just getting into trouble on my own and not following the storyline. Later games inI didn't get to play this game (or any game in the series) until 2012, when it was so cheap on a Steam sale, I wanted to see what all of the hype was about. GTA III turned out to be one of the best, most innovative games that I have ever played. I quickly logged hundreds of hours in the game, most of them just getting into trouble on my own and not following the storyline. Later games in the franchise have added a ton of features, but I love the simplicity of GTA III. Expand
  20. Sep 29, 2011
    10
    ALL modern sandbox games owe their very existence to this revolutionary game. It's not just the fact that it has advanced from top-down 2D to 3rd-person 3D gameplay, but the actual game in itself deserves its own merit, let alone what it has done for gaming. There's as many missions as there are on GTA IV, but there's greater variety in the missions with more variety in the difficulty too.ALL modern sandbox games owe their very existence to this revolutionary game. It's not just the fact that it has advanced from top-down 2D to 3rd-person 3D gameplay, but the actual game in itself deserves its own merit, let alone what it has done for gaming. There's as many missions as there are on GTA IV, but there's greater variety in the missions with more variety in the difficulty too. Liberty City isn't visually impressive, and Shoreside Vale can be confusing to navigate through at the best of times. But everything else is done so well. It's fun to play in and out of missions. The only issue is that there's almost as little to do here as there is in GTA IV. You can't really spend money on anything but weapons. But a 6 star wanted level will get a tank to come after you. Hidden packages (of which there are 100) aren't difficult to find, but not too easy either. There is an incentive for getting them: for every 10 you find a weapon is delivered to your safehouse on every island. Even now this game is good. For 2001/2002, this was years ahead of its time. Expand
  21. Dec 22, 2011
    10
    The best GTA 3 era game!!!!!!!!!!
    Why is it good, cause it's easy to mod and the story is very interesting. The radio stations are good specially the one's with commentary.
  22. Mar 17, 2012
    10
    The PC version, while not as good as the PS2 version, is still a lot of fun. The controls take some time to get used to however.
  23. May 13, 2012
    10
    This is where it all started. I remember playing this game 10 years ago and my computer just couldn't handle the "high-end" graphics. Reliving the experience now, it's still an amazing score despite the blurry textures. The story is as entertaining as life expects and the mission fun are endless. Anyone who misses this title should regret having lived his/her life.
  24. Jun 5, 2012
    10
    The best in the best game of that time ... well designed open-world ..... Well written script and nice voice over .. BEST OF best of that time !! Made a shocking debut as 3D gaming of that time ... i still have whole lot of collection of GTA including that also
  25. Apr 25, 2013
    10
    Quite frankly the greatest game of the series, and the game that changed all over games into free-roaming clones set in New York City. A plus point and a negative point ofcourse, but with no Grand Theft Auto 3, there would be no Saints Row, Prototype or countless other games.
  26. Feb 4, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Если твоё детство прямиком из начала нулевых и если ты хочешь глоток ностальгии... Expand
  27. Feb 11, 2019
    10
    Played this game so much I could easily play without radar. Hell I think I still know my way around there 16 years later. Just amazing!
  28. May 8, 2016
    10
    I know that nowadays it may look bad, but in 2001, it was the best game to ever live. In my opinion, this game is still enjoyable and fun as the day it was released.
  29. Nov 15, 2016
    10
    Replaying this game 14 years after its release felt awesome. To remember the incredibly well built characters, the soundtrack and mainly the missions we are given, it all made me realize how innovative it was for the industry at the time and how fresh it still feels, since GTA 3 has been influencing games ever since. Of course, nowadays, the flaws are much more obvious: the poor audioReplaying this game 14 years after its release felt awesome. To remember the incredibly well built characters, the soundtrack and mainly the missions we are given, it all made me realize how innovative it was for the industry at the time and how fresh it still feels, since GTA 3 has been influencing games ever since. Of course, nowadays, the flaws are much more obvious: the poor audio quality in the voice-overs, simple storyline, main character with zero charisma... But apart from that (and the terrible compatibility with Windows 10), the game remains a masterpiece, and will forever hold this position. Expand
  30. Jan 29, 2017
    10
    Que maravilla lo que significo GTA3 para el mundo de los videojuegos, si bien sigue la estela de lo que fue Driver 2 en su momento mas la historia y diversión que llevan de GTA2 acá se obtiene un formula mágica que convirtió a Rockstar Games en la grande que es el dia de hoy. Claude Speed es un criminal mudo de poca monta que con lazos de figuras oscuras como la mafia italiana, los yakuzaQue maravilla lo que significo GTA3 para el mundo de los videojuegos, si bien sigue la estela de lo que fue Driver 2 en su momento mas la historia y diversión que llevan de GTA2 acá se obtiene un formula mágica que convirtió a Rockstar Games en la grande que es el dia de hoy. Claude Speed es un criminal mudo de poca monta que con lazos de figuras oscuras como la mafia italiana, los yakuza termina de lleno en una red de narcotráfico y sicariato. es la búsqueda de un criminal de venganza por una gran traición. mítico... aun no olvido aquella primera escena al subirse junto 8BALL en aquel Kuruma Turquesa... grande Expand
  31. Dec 7, 2022
    10
    Greatest game of its time. Started a revolution in the open world gaming genre. The graphics hold up well to this day and gameplay is still remarkable.
  32. Jul 12, 2020
    10
    I loved this game so much i would enjoy even watching other people play it. One of the best ever
  33. Mar 28, 2020
    10
    Mind blowing for it's time. Defined a genre. Depicts dark, gritty and gloomy atmosphere of New York. Who else could put you with Mafia, Yakuza, Triads, Cartel and more.
  34. Feb 12, 2019
    10
    Игра хороша: своим сюжетом, списком своих возможностей, открытым миром, хорошая музыка.
  35. Mar 25, 2019
    10
    What a HUGE step from GTA II. I remember I played GTA I at an internet café. I fell in love, so I had no choice but to buy the game and it seems that GTA II was pretty new at that time, so I bought that. From 2D bird's-eye-view to 3D third-person-view. Awesome missions and huge islands, it takes weeks to complete and thanks for that. I like the sportscars, of course.
  36. Feb 5, 2022
    10
    3-я знаминитая часть.
    Моя первая и любимая.
    С этой части я полюбил эту серию.
    Благодарность разработчикам.
  37. Feb 4, 2020
    10
    Like anyone else in my childhood, I used to play this game, but I still enjoyed it. I was glad it ran on win7 without any problems
  38. Nov 4, 2021
    10
    Игра детства. До сих пор остаётся лучшей в моём рейтинге игр GTA. Легенде нельзя ставить меньше 10
  39. Feb 18, 2020
    10
    Masterpiece. Beginning of legendary series.

    It's my second best game I've ever played. It's not a perfect game, especially for PC version. Still, city design is the best of every games including other GTA series, and gameplay is not obsolete even in 2020.
  40. Oct 13, 2020
    10
    Grand Theft Auto 3 не сговариваясь признали лучшей PC игрой 2002 года практически все ведущие игровые издания Запада. Тернистым был путь к успеху, GTA 3 кое-где (а именно - в Австралии) даже пытались запретить, что не помешало этому шедевру достичь всемирной славы. Причины тому:
    - Впервые в истории серии город, в котором происходит действие, стал большим, трехмерным и красивым. День
    Grand Theft Auto 3 не сговариваясь признали лучшей PC игрой 2002 года практически все ведущие игровые издания Запада. Тернистым был путь к успеху, GTA 3 кое-где (а именно - в Австралии) даже пытались запретить, что не помешало этому шедевру достичь всемирной славы. Причины тому:
    - Впервые в истории серии город, в котором происходит действие, стал большим, трехмерным и красивым. День сменяет ночь, туманы чередуются с дождями, а огни фар выхватывают из темноты небритых молодых героев в спортивных костюмах...
    - Озвучкой героев занимались известные профессиональные актеры. Музыка на всех радиостанциях играет разная - от попсы до хип-хопа, от транса до классики.
    - Около восьмидесяти видов авто. Будете дотошными - насчитаете, что по ходу погони от машины может отвалиться семнадцать деталей.
    - Десятки миссий.
    - Залезть можно куда угодно, вплоть до заброшенных станций метрополитена.
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  41. Jun 29, 2022
    10
    One of the first GTA titles I've played and also the first 3D game in GTA series. This is a classic, without a doubt. Moreover, as for me, GTA 3 has in itself something unique which is separates that title from other gta titles.
  42. Jul 12, 2020
    10
    Excellent game and story. Still playing in 2020 and it´s still addictive. Simply excellent
  43. Jul 29, 2020
    10
    This game is my childhood. Cant give a low score because is didn't age very well. Storytelling is still good tho. Openworld is OK. This game will always have a very soft place in my heart...
  44. May 11, 2021
    10
    Grand Theft Auto III was my first AAA game I saw. I was absolutely blown away by that game. I was very fascinated by the fact that you can do whatever you want in the game and you have freedom. Of course, the whole controversy around the series arose here, because the possibility of killing people in games to such an extent was unprecedented until the time of GTAs, and GTA III gave it theGrand Theft Auto III was my first AAA game I saw. I was absolutely blown away by that game. I was very fascinated by the fact that you can do whatever you want in the game and you have freedom. Of course, the whole controversy around the series arose here, because the possibility of killing people in games to such an extent was unprecedented until the time of GTAs, and GTA III gave it the crown when the game changed the bird's eye view to full 3D and you had the opportunity to enjoy it all. violence several times better. In the game, you play as a guy named Claud, who is probably not mentioned for the whole game. It's quite mysterious. He didn't say a word for the whole game. From today's point of view, it's quite a minus and it removes a lot from the story, on the one hand, it somehow has its charm here, but mainly it's because it's an old game and for the time only that there was a story was total massacre. Good. I'm exaggerating. No massacre. The story didn't interest me then and won't interest me much even today, but it's just that the addition of cut-scenes to the game is nice and I just took the overall GTA III mainly revolutionary in that it switched to 3D graphics and you had the opportunity to really break out in the city. The cities here are quite mysterious. They have their own atmosphere. They are not dead, but at the same time they work here and there. This reminds me that there is a ghost town in the game, which is really weird and was only created for the opening cut-scene. The game has plenty to offer outside of the mission. The whole map is full of different Easter Eggs. In fact, you don't even have to search the city. All you have to do is drive and play. There has been no competition in the GTA series for many years. I'll put it this way. GTA III is no longer a master game, but then it was something crazy and I remember the moment exactly when this game got into my hands and I had the opportunity to try the delicious open-world that Rockstar Games can perhaps the best of all studies. An awesome game for me, which I recommend. Expand
  45. Nov 21, 2020
    10
    What an absolute classic. When it came out, it was legendary. Modern open world city that had 3 different city areas, you can drive any car, with solid story. This game was revolutionary!
  46. Jan 22, 2021
    10
    One of the greatest games of all time. Revolutionized open-world games. Still holds up beautifully today.
  47. Apr 30, 2021
    10
    GTA3 opened up another dimension in gaming. It felt like a step forward in video games, and it's definitely the best (and most classic) GTA experience you will find out there.
  48. Apr 20, 2021
    10
    Graphically outdated obviously, but that's just what happens with some early 2000s games. Specially when same company keeps making these games and each one has better and better graphics. GTA 3 is my third favorite gta just behind gta 4 and gta 5. I never understood why so many liked vice city more than 3. I really liked this dark-rainy new york vibe that GTA 3 had, i also like that itGraphically outdated obviously, but that's just what happens with some early 2000s games. Specially when same company keeps making these games and each one has better and better graphics. GTA 3 is my third favorite gta just behind gta 4 and gta 5. I never understood why so many liked vice city more than 3. I really liked this dark-rainy new york vibe that GTA 3 had, i also like that it takes place in year 2001. Vice City had this cheesy 80s vibe, everything was too vibrant and bright even at night time, i just didn't connect with it. Expand
  49. Jul 16, 2021
    10
    It is the groundbreaking game of the Grand Theft Auto series.
    The game that got full marks from the critics in the year it was released. gta 3. Despite all this, there are a few optimization problems (it would be strange if it wasn't made in 2001), But I would download it again to listen to that old school radio soundtrack, it was very well chosen. If you haven't played GTA Sanandreas,
    It is the groundbreaking game of the Grand Theft Auto series.
    The game that got full marks from the critics in the year it was released. gta 3. Despite all this, there are a few optimization problems (it would be strange if it wasn't made in 2001), But I would download it again to listen to that old school radio soundtrack, it was very well chosen. If you haven't played GTA Sanandreas, it's normal that you didn't understand the story at first.
    Expand
  50. Dec 2, 2021
    10
    It is a well-made story and overall a good game. The game makes a good job of telling a simple but good story. Unlike other GTA games, this one is more simple. The missions are a bit difficult, but once you learn to master the game and mechanics you will get over them. The experience with this game is unique I would say, so I would recommend it if you want to try something new
  51. Jun 2, 2023
    10
    At the time of release, the game was a new gaming experience in the open world genre, Rockstar games handsome!
  52. Apr 12, 2022
    10
    Hey there. Do you wanna know why I rated this game 10/10? The neatness, design, and how the missions are implemented and done; how the main character is not speaking; the representation of different societies in every part and corner of the Liberty City; how the missions are done with the thought of the gamers.
  53. Aug 11, 2023
    10
    One of the best GTA games and a game that was ahead of its time a really great game.
  54. BitBurn
    Jun 5, 2002
    9
    Very refreshing!! This is a great game. Missions are awesome. The only problem is that I wasn't able to get my Thrusmaster Modena 360 steering wheel to work properly with it. But other then this, I highly recommend this game to anyone with a sense of humour...and a sense of madness!!
  55. StephenL.
    Aug 2, 2002
    9
    GAT3 is realy good because it has good graphics and you can allmost do anythinng you want. the only real problem is that you can't go into allmost anybuilding. and it would be better if you wernt in the same environment, thats all.
  56. CiaranG.
    Mar 27, 2006
    9
    Have had many an hour playing this super game. Lots to do. I love the huge living breathing city. Was the first game I've played which has such a huge environment and so much to do.
  57. JohnnyM.
    May 30, 2002
    9
    Grand Theft Auto 3 is probably one of the best game ever, and the PC version does the game justice. I played both the PC and PS2 versions and the graphics on the PC are better, BUT I prefer the controls in the PS2 version. I could not get used to the mouse/keyboard combination for this generally third-person game. But, except for that minor problem, the game is in every way perfect! I Grand Theft Auto 3 is probably one of the best game ever, and the PC version does the game justice. I played both the PC and PS2 versions and the graphics on the PC are better, BUT I prefer the controls in the PS2 version. I could not get used to the mouse/keyboard combination for this generally third-person game. But, except for that minor problem, the game is in every way perfect! I will buy GTA: Vice City and GTA4 when they come out! Expand
  58. AngelG.
    Jun 11, 2002
    9
    Esta bueno regalenmelo.
  59. [Anonymous]
    Feb 19, 2004
    9
    The only reason for giving it the 9 rating is because the only things it misses are in Vice City. Get them both I would say.
  60. Dec 6, 2011
    9
    Awesome game. Notthing more to say here, everything in this game is good. The best graphics back then when it was released and for sure the most tr00 one of the entire serie. Vice City kept the good job on the trails, but this one is unreachable, imo.
  61. Mar 10, 2012
    9
    Tune in to your favourite stations, step on the gas and run over that granny. A cop is comming to arrest you, blow his head off! More cops arrive, burn them to the ground! FBI is here, and soon thye army will join in, send them to hell! Then you die. But no problem. Get in a random car and start over. Or just go wherever you want. No limits. No preprogramed paths. No nothing. Just goTune in to your favourite stations, step on the gas and run over that granny. A cop is comming to arrest you, blow his head off! More cops arrive, burn them to the ground! FBI is here, and soon thye army will join in, send them to hell! Then you die. But no problem. Get in a random car and start over. Or just go wherever you want. No limits. No preprogramed paths. No nothing. Just go wherever you want. You're free. Untill you're busted, or you pass out. Then you start it all over again, this time in a different manner. And that's why this game radically changed my view on games. I was playing Half-Life like mad. I was also playing Delta-Force: Land Warrior like mad. But i didn't realised how repetitive they were until i found GTA3. And after 10 years i still play this game. Expand
  62. Dec 5, 2012
    9
    There has been a before and after in gaming and GTA III was the ground-breaker. Its unique 3rd person perspective revolutionized and influenced, perhaps, every 3rd person action-adventure video game nowadays.
  63. Feb 24, 2019
    9
    This classic game is still fun even 17 years after release.
    The story takes you to the world immediately and is interesting after hours also. The dialogues are well written, the only mistake was that the main character doesnt speak anything.
    The gameplay is a milestone of the PC games and was a big improvement to GTA 2, one of the few examples that 3D is sometimes better than 2D, because
    This classic game is still fun even 17 years after release.
    The story takes you to the world immediately and is interesting after hours also. The dialogues are well written, the only mistake was that the main character doesnt speak anything.
    The gameplay is a milestone of the PC games and was a big improvement to GTA 2, one of the few examples that 3D is sometimes better than 2D, because it changed the gameplay a lot.
    The graphics are of course a bit old, but there are some mods in internet, that improves it a lot. I can still enjoy the graphics.
    Music and Sounds fit perfectly to the game, but there could be more music.

    But there are some frustrating elements in the game:
    The controlling of shooting is very bad and consolebased. No free mouse view.
    The physic of the cars is unrealistic,the police is too fast and the traffic system is unrealistic, they change the line stupidly.
    There is no free saving, so you lose a lot of time to do the same things again, if you load last savepoints.
    Rockstar was too lazy to release patches to fix some bugs and improve the performance. It reminds me to Bethesda and their Elder Scrolls and Fallout games.
    Expand
  64. Jan 19, 2018
    9
    Безупречный переход от 2D с видом сверху, в 3D с видом из за спины. С этого перехода и началась массовая популярность франшизы. Тогда еще в GTA можно было отстреливать конечности и головы, а копы не были такими адово злобными и неубиваемыми.Безупречный переход от 2D с видом сверху, в 3D с видом из за спины. С этого перехода и началась массовая популярность франшизы. Тогда еще в GTA можно было отстреливать конечности и головы, а копы не были такими адово злобными и неубиваемыми.
  65. Jan 3, 2014
    9
    Really great game nice story awesome soundtrack and nice graphics
    Optimization on PC is bad because on a 64mb card even on 640x480 it was a bit laggy
    Despite that the game is worth playing it
  66. Mar 8, 2014
    9
    There is one problem with this game... the fighting. You'd think the fighting would be ok in a game about being a criminal, which involves fighting but no. Half the punches miss. However, the rest of the game is great.
  67. May 9, 2020
    9
    The historical leap of GTA franchise to 3D. It was probably the most anticipated game in my life. And it was a damn good game too. It was not perfect, the graphics kinda sucked even back in the day, but gameplay-wise with its open world and realistic detailed city where you can do anything you want it was unlike anything we have ever seen before.
  68. Aug 12, 2018
    9
    One of the best fun games ever. Beyond its time. One of the best works of Rockstar.
  69. Nov 2, 2020
    9
    I was a big fan of GTA 2 back then, and it was a big surprise when GTA3 was released. I had immediately bought the disc and played the game. It reminded me of GTA2: the mute main character, style, driving, radios. At the same time everything was on the new scale: 3D, music, hits, the solid story line. I was disappointed that no story was continued from the second game, I couldn't seeI was a big fan of GTA 2 back then, and it was a big surprise when GTA3 was released. I had immediately bought the disc and played the game. It reminded me of GTA2: the mute main character, style, driving, radios. At the same time everything was on the new scale: 3D, music, hits, the solid story line. I was disappointed that no story was continued from the second game, I couldn't see Zaibatsu again (except a commercial). However, overall impression was positive.

    After many, MANY years, more then 19, I played again with the graphics upgrade pack.

    Well. Let's compare the reviews.

    Me, teenager.

    Pros.:
    - Awesome music. Especially RISE FM.
    - Sniper rifle. LOVE IT!
    - Driving, can steal any car, drive sport cards, some of them remind of GTA2 (Yakuza stinger).
    - The story is so cool!
    - Very sad to finish the game. I tried to finish all the missions but... Whatever. I finished.
    - I just like to drive around the city!

    Cons.:
    - Some missions are hard, had to replay over and over again. That goddamn truck and Colombian mafia trying to destroy it.
    - Goddamn airplane mission when you need to find the boat. I almost destroyed my keyboard.
    - That's it I think.

    Me. 2020.

    Pros.:
    - Music, Rise FM.
    - Versatility of finishing some missions.
    - Different ways of reaching parts of the city (tunnel or bridges).
    - More weapons, more missions, more characters. Characters are memorable. Even though some of them are not really recognizable from the concept arts.
    - The opening and ending theme. Attaching and fulfilling.
    - The attempt to add some cinematography into the game. It's not a complete attraction like GTA2, full of **** and giggles. It's more serious. Even though some missions are fun, posters (Bad Fellas, for example). All these references to pop culture and movies (the Godfather, Reservoir Dogs, etc.).
    - The system of hidden packages. The more you get, the better default equipment you have near the hideout. PRICELESS! You should plan the game play. AGAIN.

    Cons.:
    - Overbuffed Italian mafia with their shotguns. But it may be a cons, because you have to PLAN how to play. For example, finish side missions first.
    - I miss that system of gang reputation from the second game. If you kill other gang members, you may restore the reputation.
    - I REALLY MISS ZAIBATSU NOW.
    - The music tracks is very VERY limited. I ended up listening to nothing, because I have heard it all.
    - The graphics look awful. The game is dull. Physics are OK, but the details. The game required more details I suppose.
    - The story is quite short. And characters are not that attaching. It was fixed in Vice City I guess.
    - No bikes.
    - No **** swimming. It's ridiculous.
    - There should be payment for the hideout. Like in GTA2. Of course, the **** the cheaper.

    Anyways, the game is a LEGEND! Worth showing to the kids.
    Expand
  70. Jun 1, 2020
    9
    the pc version is much better than the ps2, unfortunately the steam version is a bit buggy, with car colors being dark and the npcs AI getting more stupid, but nothing that a downgrade version doesn't solve the problem, I recommend the mod that simulates the version of the first xbox and a texture pack that corrects the textures of the cars.
    the gameplay is better, playing on the keyboard
    the pc version is much better than the ps2, unfortunately the steam version is a bit buggy, with car colors being dark and the npcs AI getting more stupid, but nothing that a downgrade version doesn't solve the problem, I recommend the mod that simulates the version of the first xbox and a texture pack that corrects the textures of the cars.
    the gameplay is better, playing on the keyboard is completely different and the crosshair of the character and weapons is better
    Expand
  71. Jan 28, 2021
    9
    Oynanış: 40/40
    Hikaye: 20/30
    Grafikler: 20/20
    Sesler ve Müzikler: 7/10
    Sonuç: 87/100
  72. Apr 10, 2023
    9
    Атмосфера сірого кримінального міста. У радіо грає MSX FМ та хрящі летять із під колес твого авто під сирени поліції. Неймовірний контраст просто іноді зависаю катаючись по Нью-Йорку
  73. GVB
    Jan 19, 2023
    9
    Shooting in a silent city while it's raining during a mission full of jokes and dark undertones... Even after all this years, it's still an amazing game.
  74. Nov 13, 2022
    9
    A truly excellent, ground-breaking production that will successfully appear on my PC again. A piece of history encapsulated in a single adventure native to Liberty City.
  75. Jan 27, 2023
    9
    Like
    LikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLikeLike
  76. Feb 1, 2021
    9
    Фаворит,без базару,лучшая часть из всех.Геймплей для того времени пушка-вышка.
  77. Aug 28, 2023
    9
    First GTA I've ever played an I was stunned from the first minute. Graphics, gameplay, soundtrack, story, atmosphere - everything is nearly perfect. A golden hour for gaming. Overall rating: 9.1.
  78. May 5, 2021
    9
    Fazla söze gerek yok. Oldukça güzel bir oyun, Özellikle çıktığı yılı düşünürsek. Çünkü o zamanları hatırlayanlarınız olacaktır, o zamanlar bu tarz ciddi ve karanlık oyunlar piyasada neredeyse hiç yoktu. Aynı şekilde grafikleri de gerçekten harika. Gerçekten çıktığı yılda o yılın en iyi grafiklerine sahipti. Nasıl şuan Crimson Desert'a 'oha! grafiklere bak çok iyi!' diyorsak, 2001 de de buFazla söze gerek yok. Oldukça güzel bir oyun, Özellikle çıktığı yılı düşünürsek. Çünkü o zamanları hatırlayanlarınız olacaktır, o zamanlar bu tarz ciddi ve karanlık oyunlar piyasada neredeyse hiç yoktu. Aynı şekilde grafikleri de gerçekten harika. Gerçekten çıktığı yılda o yılın en iyi grafiklerine sahipti. Nasıl şuan Crimson Desert'a 'oha! grafiklere bak çok iyi!' diyorsak, 2001 de de bu oyun için 'oha grafiklere bak' diyorduk. New York havasını ve atmosferini de çok güzel yansıtıyor, e daha ne olsun? Harika bir oyun, şiddetle öneririm!!!!!! Expand
  79. May 25, 2021
    9
    GTAIII's impact can't be ignored, it was one of the most revolutionary titles of the early 00's and cemented itself as one of the most important video games in both rockstar north's history and gaming history in general. But GTA 3 was too revolutionary to stand against the test of time and some gameplay elements are seriously lackluster nowadays but that doesn't reduce from the totalGTAIII's impact can't be ignored, it was one of the most revolutionary titles of the early 00's and cemented itself as one of the most important video games in both rockstar north's history and gaming history in general. But GTA 3 was too revolutionary to stand against the test of time and some gameplay elements are seriously lackluster nowadays but that doesn't reduce from the total enjoyment you can get from this game. I was never a gta fan but gta 3, being my favorite gta title, is a brilliant game that is still worth playing today. Expand
  80. Jun 28, 2021
    9
    The game is fine. But the story gets boring after a while. Other than the game, the game is fine. You can roam freely in the open world.
  81. Nov 13, 2021
    9
    About GTA 3, an amazing game I have no negative comments about the game, those who criticize it has the same footprint as GTA IV a serious game without the double meaning jokes or sarcasm placed by Rockstar. Note in this game a darker and darker setting as a criticism of the American lifestyle. In addition the game is excellent and for that realistic time, today I see it as a gamingAbout GTA 3, an amazing game I have no negative comments about the game, those who criticize it has the same footprint as GTA IV a serious game without the double meaning jokes or sarcasm placed by Rockstar. Note in this game a darker and darker setting as a criticism of the American lifestyle. In addition the game is excellent and for that realistic time, today I see it as a gaming revolution and mainly the level of details and other things present in the game. What makes the game a little boring are some missions, other than that the game is sensational Expand
  82. Dec 12, 2021
    9
    One of the first games I played on PC and it was just mindblowing. I finished it several times and it just never gets old.
  83. Mar 7, 2022
    9
    This Game Is Very Good This Game Is 1 of The Most Open World Action Adventure Games
  84. Jan 31, 2023
    9
    my childhood, my first grand theft auto and I have passed it many times, wonderfull
  85. Sep 8, 2023
    9
    It's the pioneer of open-world games and shines on its own. How could a game like this even come into existence?
  86. MafiaGuy
    Nov 1, 2003
    8
    The game would be just as fun as Mafia - if the graphics were better.
  87. sammyh.
    Dec 31, 2008
    8
    Although I always found this game fun, and sometimes annoying. later on in the game you are shot at, and sometimes blown up by diffrent gangs (which you tick off). The only other problem in his tame is Money, What is it for after you have all the weapons and ammo (not using cheats). Can't buy anything. Only two things this game has a problem with. Money, and gangs always shooting you Although I always found this game fun, and sometimes annoying. later on in the game you are shot at, and sometimes blown up by diffrent gangs (which you tick off). The only other problem in his tame is Money, What is it for after you have all the weapons and ammo (not using cheats). Can't buy anything. Only two things this game has a problem with. Money, and gangs always shooting you every where! Expand
  88. Aug 16, 2010
    8
    This is what makes Grand Theft Auto into Grand Theft Auto, it is the basic essence of the series: Stealing cars, killing people, and doing other 'shady' activities all while in a crime infested city. Although it has next to nothing to do compared to later releases in the Grand Theft Auto series, the story is still fun to play.
  89. Apr 22, 2013
    8
    Excellent game. Never knew you could be in the mafia and never say a damn word. My favorite thing about this game has to be the radio shows and full blown satire of our own culture. Brilliant!
  90. Jan 17, 2012
    8
    Played it in October of 2011. It was good fun and got 10 hours into the story. The graphics are very dated, and so is some of the gameplay variants in the missions. Much better than GTA IV in my opinion for fun factor, but I have yet to play it on my pc. Xbox graphics sucked too much for me to continue
  91. Sep 21, 2012
    8
    Ahh GTA 3... The ultimate douchbag simulator we all know and love. This game is just a 100% classic, good and pure fun, pissing off the police, given the chance to roam around the giant well designed world, shooting people's limbs off in to a gory dust of glory and so much more in this almost-masterpiece. This game is really really fun, you get so much to do, a nice selection of cars,Ahh GTA 3... The ultimate douchbag simulator we all know and love. This game is just a 100% classic, good and pure fun, pissing off the police, given the chance to roam around the giant well designed world, shooting people's limbs off in to a gory dust of glory and so much more in this almost-masterpiece. This game is really really fun, you get so much to do, a nice selection of cars, weapons, NPCs, the story is cool and overall it's... **** GTA 3!!!
    A few things that made me kind of...like... pull my hair out were some of the missions. ROCKSTAR! DID YOU CHECK THIS GAME?! SOME MISSIONS ARE JUST SO **** HARD AND FRUSTRATING THEY MAKE ME CLOSE THE GAME AND RUN TO MY BED CRYING! HOLY **** **** SOME MISSIONS MAN... SOME MISSIONS... But hey, this game is still awesome.
    I'd give it about... 8/10
    Expand
  92. Jan 6, 2014
    8
    Foi a partir daí que a revolução na industria dos games mudou radicalmente.
  93. AWG
    Jul 27, 2013
    8
    All the goodies of the new GTA games (3D graphics, unfailable missions, witty-but-not-edgy humour, perfect gameplay) without all the downsides. GTA III still is the perfect GTA game to me (waiting for V).
  94. Oct 2, 2021
    8
    Grand Theft Auto III's innovative and impressive open-world is too often hindered by poor control and mission designs.
  95. Oct 9, 2014
    8
    The first time I played in the computer room ... somewhere in 2004 I was so amazed, that I began to stand for hours just to get it done. But, my young age and my experience in gaming, barely able to cope. In a few days only managed to finish 2-3 missions. It is the first GTA in 3D. It is simply amazing.
  96. Feb 27, 2016
    8
    Fun and old classic

    PROS
    -Fast loading times
    -Good story
    -nice gameplay

    CONS
    -Hard gameplay .
  97. May 25, 2016
    8
    Very good open world game . Much better than Grand Theft Auto Vice City or IV . In this game awesome graphics for 2001 and amazing storyline . In 2001 was born many awesome characters . Shadow (Sonic Series), Master Chief (Halo Series), Crunch (Crash Bandicoot Series) and Cloud (Grand Theft Auto III) . Grand Theft Auto III one of the best game in GTA series . My Top 5 Games in GTA SeriesVery good open world game . Much better than Grand Theft Auto Vice City or IV . In this game awesome graphics for 2001 and amazing storyline . In 2001 was born many awesome characters . Shadow (Sonic Series), Master Chief (Halo Series), Crunch (Crash Bandicoot Series) and Cloud (Grand Theft Auto III) . Grand Theft Auto III one of the best game in GTA series . My Top 5 Games in GTA Series
    5 Grand Theft Auto Vice City
    4 Grand Theft Auto Vice City Stories, Liberty City Stories
    3 Grand Theft Auto III
    2 Grand Theft Auto V
    1 Grand Theft Auto San Andreas
    And I think GTA III is cool game .
    Expand
  98. Jun 24, 2022
    8
    Игра, давшая начало новой эпохе в истории игровой индустрии. К сожалению, сейчас она безвозвратно устарела, особенно на фоне последующих частей, но как музейный экспонат - это классика.
  99. Jan 26, 2017
    8
    A great trip to all PC gamers,this game will make you impress,after you experience PS2 Version,it's time to change to another platform.And it is not a large game,so you have nothing need to worry about!
  100. Jun 16, 2018
    8
    Хорошая игра, но если сравнивать с Vice City, то 3я часть во многом проигрывает.
Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. There’s more senseless violence in GTA3 than there are bleeps in an episode of "The Osbournes."
  2. netjak
    98
    The interaction between player and environment sets the bar so high for other games, that it is nearly inaccessible.
  3. 94
    It's a game you could play for weeks -- maybe even months -- and still discover something new every day.