Released in 1997, the original Grand Theft Auto strips away the narrative complexity of its modern sequels to deliver a raw, high-octane crime sandbox split across three iconic fictional American cities: Liberty City, San Andreas, and Vice City. Rather than following a singular protagonist on a cinematic journey, players step into the shoes of a customizable low-level thug looking to climb the ranks of the criminal underworld. The overarching plot unfolds dynamically through ringing public payphones, where ruthless local syndicate bosses and eccentric mobsters assign a variety of high-stakes illegal jobs. From orchestrating bank heists and carrying out assassinations to participating in chaotic street races and smuggling stolen luxury vehicles, every successful mission builds the player's "Multiplier" and score. Ultimately, the story is a pure, adrenaline-fueled pursuit of wealth and notoriety, concluding only when the player accumulates enough cash and chaos to conquer all three cities and establish themselves as the ultimate underworld kingpin.