"Master the Sequence: Playing GTA Games in Order" %v

It's impossible to discuss modern video games without acknowledging the monumental impact of Grand Theft Auto. Rockstar's iconic crime franchise has evolved from a controversial PlayStation 1 classic into a universally recognized cultural phenomenon. The latest installment, Grand Theft Auto 5, has secured its place as the third best-selling game of all time, underscoring the series' enduring appeal.

However, this success wasn't achieved overnight. Rockstar has meticulously crafted its iconic crime series over more than two decades, creating hyper-immersive open worlds that captivate players long after their initial release. With over sixteen Grand Theft Auto games released since the franchise's inception in 1997, new players might find themselves wondering where to dive in. To help you navigate this expansive universe, we've listed every GTA game in chronological order, enabling you to chart the best path through this crime-filled saga. Just remember, you'll need to wait until 2026 for GTA 6.

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How to Play in Chronological Order
The 2D Timeline
The 3D Timeline
The HD Timeline
GTA Release Dates

The Grand Theft Auto Games in Order

The Grand Theft Auto series boasts a total of 16 games – eleven on home consoles, one on PC, and four on handheld devices. The next chapter, GTA 6, is eagerly anticipated for its 2026 release.

Before we delve into the list, it's crucial to understand the continuity of the Grand Theft Auto universe. As confirmed by Rockstar in 2011, the series is segmented into three distinct timelines: the 2D timeline, the 3D timeline, and the HD timeline. While events across these timelines may share similarities or even be identical, Rockstar does not consider them all canon to each other. We'll categorize the games accordingly to help you explore their respective universes.

Which GTA Game Should You Play First?

If you're eager to jump into the Grand Theft Auto games before GTA 6 hits the shelves, starting with the most recent entry, GTA 5, is a smart move. This masterpiece is not only accessible on nearly every platform but also offers the vibrant multiplayer experience of GTA Online. While you can certainly explore the earlier titles, GTA 5 stands out as a phenomenal introduction to the series.

Grand Theft Auto V

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The Grand Theft Auto 2D Timeline

Below, we'll detail the Grand Theft Auto games from the 2D universe. These summaries include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story arcs.

1. Grand Theft Auto: London 1961

The second expansion for the original Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Auto: London 1961, is unique in that it never made it to a PlayStation console, being exclusive to PC. This mission pack serves as a prequel to Grand Theft Auto: London 1969, following an unnamed criminal's ascent through London's criminal ranks under the guidance of mobster Harold Cartwright.

2. Grand Theft Auto: London 1969

The first expansion for the original Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Auto: London 1969, marks the series' initial foray into London. It chronicles the journey of an unnamed British criminal as they navigate and combat various crime syndicates, including Harold Cartwright's gang and the notorious Crisp Twins, while building their legend on the city's streets.

3. Grand Theft Auto

The inaugural entry in the mainline series, Grand Theft Auto, introduces players to a nameless protagonist who carves out a name for themselves in the criminal underbellies of Liberty City, San Andreas, and Vice City. Set in 1997, the game follows their progression from bank heists and assassinations to becoming a respected figure among sinister gangs, meeting characters like Robert Seragliano, El Burro, and Uncle Fu along the way.

4. Grand Theft Auto 2

The second mainline entry, Grand Theft Auto 2, is a significant departure from its predecessor, setting players in the futuristic metropolis of Anywhere City. The narrative follows Claude Speed, a criminal who navigates alliances with various crime syndicates to gain wealth and respect. Despite in-game references suggesting timelines in both 1999 and 2013, it remains the final chapter of the 2D timeline.

The Grand Theft Auto 3D Timeline

Below, we'll outline the Grand Theft Auto games from the 3D universe. These summaries include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story arcs.

1. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories

A prequel to Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, set in 1984, follows US military soldier Victor Vance. After a dishonorable discharge due to a setup by his sergeant, Vic dives into Vice City's underworld. With the help of his brother Lance, he ascends to the head of a crime family, setting the stage for the events of Vice City.

2. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

The fourth mainline game, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, is set in 1986 and follows Tommy Vercetti, a notorious gangster from Liberty City. Sent to Vice City to expand his boss's drug empire, Tommy's plans go awry after a drug deal fails. He teams up with Lance Vance to navigate Vice City's criminal underbelly, rebuild his reputation, and establish his own empire.

3. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Set in 1992, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas tells the story of Carl 'CJ' Johnson, who returns to Los Santos after his mother's murder. Reuniting with his old gang, the Grove Street Families, CJ seeks revenge and aims to restore the gang's former glory. As he navigates betrayal and corrupt law enforcement, CJ's journey spans Los Santos, San Fierro, and Las Venturas.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories

Set in 1998, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories serves as a prequel to Grand Theft Auto 3, following Toni Cipriani, a gangster working for Salvatore Leone. Returning to Liberty City after hiding in Italy, Toni climbs the ranks of Leone's gang, dealing with rival crime lords and political maneuvering, setting the stage for the events of Grand Theft Auto 3.

5. Grand Theft Auto Advance

Set in 2000, Grand Theft Auto Advance is a prequel to Grand Theft Auto 3, released on the Gameboy Advance. It follows Mike, who seeks vengeance for his partner Vinnie's death. As Mike navigates the criminal underworld of Liberty City, he teams up with familiar characters from Grand Theft Auto 3, including 8-Ball and Asuka Kasen.

6. Grand Theft Auto 3

The final entry in the timeline but the first game of the 3D era by release date, Grand Theft Auto 3 takes place in 2001. It follows Claude, a bank robber betrayed by his girlfriend Catalina during a heist. After escaping from a prison convoy, Claude becomes a pivotal figure in Liberty City's criminal scene, driven by a quest for vengeance against Catalina.

The Grand Theft Auto HD Timeline

Below, we'll detail the Grand Theft Auto games from the HD universe. These summaries include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story arcs.

1. Grand Theft Auto 4

The first game of the HD era, Grand Theft Auto 4, set in 2008, follows Niko Bellic, an Eastern European ex-soldier who moves to Liberty City to reunite with his cousin Roman. Discovering Roman's dire financial situation, Niko dives into the criminal underworld, befriending characters like Little Jacob and clashing with the Russian mafia, all while pursuing a personal vendetta against a former comrade.

2. Grand Theft Auto: The Lost and The Damned

Set during the events of Grand Theft Auto 4, The Lost and the Damned follows Johnny Klebitz, Vice President of The Lost MC motorcycle gang. The story unfolds as the gang's President, Billy Grey, returns from rehab and reignites a feud with rival gang, The Angels of Death, leading to internal strife and a battle for leadership.

3. Grand Theft Auto: The Ballad of Gay Tony

Also set alongside the core Grand Theft Auto 4 campaign, The Ballad of Gay Tony follows Luis Lopez, a bodyguard trying to save his boss, nightclub owner Tony Prince, from financial ruin and mob debts. Luis navigates Liberty City's criminal landscape in a desperate bid to retrieve smuggled diamonds and settle Tony's debts.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

Set in 2009, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars follows Huang Lee, tasked with delivering an ancient sword to his uncle in Liberty City. After being ambushed and left for dead, Huang embarks on a quest to recover the sword, navigating alliances with various gangs and uncovering potential betrayal within his own family.

5. Grand Theft Auto Online

Although its exact timeline placement is fluid due to ongoing updates, Grand Theft Auto Online begins shortly before Grand Theft Auto 5 and extends far beyond the game's main campaign. Players create their criminal persona in Los Santos, engaging in various criminal ventures, with recent updates even involving characters like Franklin years after the events of Grand Theft Auto V.

6. Grand Theft Auto 5

Set in 2013, Grand Theft Auto 5 follows three protagonists: Franklin, Michael, and Trevor. Michael, living under witness protection in Los Santos, is drawn back into crime after meeting Franklin. Their partnership leads to heists, but tensions rise with the arrival of Trevor, Michael's former partner, who seeks to uncover the truth of their past.

Every GTA Game in Release Order

Grand Theft Auto (1997)
Grand Theft Auto: London 1969 (1999)
Grand Theft Auto: London 1961 (1999)
Grand Theft Auto 2 (1999)
Grand Theft Auto 3 (2000)
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002)
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004)
Grand Theft Auto Advance (2004)
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005)
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories (2006)
Grand Theft Auto 4 (2008)
Grand Theft Auto: The Lost and The Damned (2009)
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars (2009)
Grand Theft Auto: The Ballad of Gay Tony (2009)
Grand Theft Auto 5 (2013)
Grand Theft Auto Online (2013)
Grand Theft Auto 6 (2026)

When Are We Getting GTA 6?

While Take-Two Interactive initially announced a fall 2025 release window, recent updates have shifted GTA 6's release date to May 26, 2026. According to the game's reveal trailer, GTA 6 will be set in a fictionalized Florida, including Vice City, and will feature two criminal protagonists, Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos.

A second trailer, hailed by Rockstar as the "biggest video launch of all time," offers a mix of cinematics and gameplay. We've analyzed numerous details from the new trailer, including key characters and the potential impact on the future of game graphics. As one of the most anticipated game releases to date, the hope is that GTA 6 will be well worth the wait.