Gand Theft Auto: As big and controversial as it gets

Yesterday the trailer for the highly anticipated latest release of video game industry giant Rockstar Games, Grand Theft Auto (GTA) VI premiered on YouTube. The video got 87 million views in 24 hours, shaking all entertainment media.

GTA VI logo

Let's dive deep into the social impact and unparalleled success of the GTA series. Beyond its groundbreaking gameplay, GTA has left an undeniable mark on our culture, sparking discussions, and controversies, and setting records that speak volumes about its influence. 

Cultural Impact of GTA:

GTA isn't just a series of games; it's a cultural phenomenon that has found a place in society, especially the youth. From the courageous narratives to the beautifully crafted open worlds, GTA has been a mirror reflecting various aspects of our culture, often exploring controversial themes with a raw and unapologetic approach.

GTA V Gameplay

The series has been dealing with controversy throughout its life, particularly due to its depictions of violence, crime, and mature themes. While some criticize it for glorifying antisocial behavior, others praise it for its bold storytelling and realism. The ongoing dialogue surrounding GTA has made it a cultural touchstone, sparking discussions on the role of video games in shaping societal perceptions. The series has never shied away from depicting the darker side of society, offering players a sandbox to engage in activities that mirror real-world criminal elements. 

You can just kill people on the street

The controversial nature of GTA has not escaped legal and political radar. Instances of simulated violence and explicit content have led to calls for regulation and restrictions on video game content. Then, this raises questions about the intersection of artistic expression, freedom of speech, and societal responsibility within the gaming industry. There is also the problem of these games being played by kids. While the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) started age ratings to games after GTA, this has not lowered the voice of discussions much. 

ESRB ratings are put on the corner of the game boxes

The success of the Series:

Now, let's talk numbers. The GTA series isn't just influential culturally, it's a juggernaut in the gaming industry, with each release breaking records and setting new standards for success. The latest release GTA series, GTA V (2013), has sold over 190 million copies, which is the second best-selling video game after Minecraft with 300 million. Within just three days of release, GTA V grossed over 1 billion dollars, setting the fastest entertainment industry record at the time. Its success continued with the introduction of GTA Online, which has maintained a robust player base, contributing significantly to the game's ongoing financial success.

Top-selling video games (Wikipedia)

While every game in the series was critically acclaimed as a success (some masterpieces) in the gaming world, what sets GTA V apart from the older titles is the longevity of its popularity. Despite its initial release in 2013, the game continues to be relevant, consistently ranking among the top-selling games each year. Its sustained success underscores the series' ability to captivate audiences and adapt to the evolving gaming landscape with players contributing to the game's contents with mods.

Hope you enjoyed this week's blog. 

Thanks for reading!

Oğuz Arslan