Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy

Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy (also known as GTA: The Trilogy — The Definitive Edition) is the remastered release of the three original GTA titles from the PS2 era of Rockstar, one of the world’s most influential game development studios that redefined the game industry with their seminal open-world releases and introduced modern gaming audiences to high-quality sandbox experiences where players can enjoy both authored game content and a wide variety of emergent activities.



Ported to the highly capable Unreal Engine and updated for a new generation of hardware, this remaster package consists of three titles that made Rockstar into the powerhouse it is today - Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

The new remasters include full versions of these three games and a wide array of enhancements that Windows PC players will be able to take advantage of modern gaming hardware.

This includes updated lightning and environmental rendering, high-resolution textures, dramatically increased draw distances, brand new models for characters and vehicles, modernized movement, targeting, and combat controls, and a wide array of additional enhancements. The PC version of this game app also has support for unlocked framerates and rendering resolutions, enabling fans of these three GTA titles to experience them like never before.



Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy modernizes the gameplay while retaining the same gameplay structure of the originals, thus preserving the legacy of these titles for a brand-new generation of players.

The structural changes do not impact gameplay features (the large, ambitious, and immersive single-player campaigns of all three titles are unchanged, as well as the incredible variety of side and sandbox content), but some changes do exist. This can most easily be felt in the music soundtrack, which was adapted and modernized, with some fan-favorite hits not returning.

Negative elements are present, and they are not only focused on issues that were present in the originals. New remasters feature a bit downgraded overall visual atmosphere (mostly present due to different color grading and a bit annoying rain effect), and a wide array of performance and rendering bugs that can even directly impact player enjoyment.

After all these years, GTA III, GTA Vice City, and GTA San Andreas still represent titles that have to be played.

New remasters require a dramatically stronger PC than the original PC ports did, but the games are still fun to play and can offer dozens of hours of excellent entertainment. It is important to note that original mods developed for old PC ports of these titles are not supported in GTA: The Trilogy for PC.



How to Play

• Install the Game – Download and install Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy on your PC from the official Rockstar launcher or store.
• Launch the Game – Open the game and select GTA III, GTA: Vice City, or GTA: San Andreas from the menu.
• Adjust Settings – Configure graphics, controls, and audio in the settings menu for the best experience.
• Start a New Game – Select "New Game" to begin or "Load Game" to continue a saved progress.
• Follow the Storyline – Complete missions by following objectives marked on the map.
• Explore the Open World – Drive vehicles, interact with NPCs, and discover hidden locations.
• Use Cheats (Optional) – Enter cheat codes for weapons, vehicles, and other in-game advantages.
• Save Progress – Visit safe houses or use the auto-save feature to keep your progress.
• Upgrade Skills & Stats – Improve driving, shooting, and stamina (especially in San Andreas).
• Enjoy Side Activities – Participate in side missions like taxi driving, vigilante mode, or street races.

FAQs

What games are included in Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition?
The collection includes remastered versions of: Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Each game features updated visuals and modernized controls while preserving the original stories and gameplay.

What improvements does the Definitive Edition offer?
The Trilogy includes enhanced graphics, improved lighting and textures, higher-resolution environments, updated character models, and modernized controls inspired by GTA V. It also supports higher frame rates and improved performance on newer hardware.

Is GTA: The Trilogy worth playing in 2026?
Yes. In 2026, the collection remains a solid way to experience three classic GTA titles with improved visuals and accessibility. While the initial launch had technical issues, updates have improved stability, making it a good option for both nostalgic players and newcomers.

On which platforms is GTA: The Trilogy available?
The Definitive Edition is available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Availability may vary depending on digital storefronts and platform updates.

Is this a remake or a remaster?
Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition is considered a remaster rather than a full remake. The core gameplay, missions, and map designs remain faithful to the originals, but the visuals and controls have been modernized.



Pricing

Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition is available for purchase on the Steam platform.

The standard price is €59.99, although the exact amount may vary depending on your region and local currency.

System Requirements Recommended

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11
• Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-2700K / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
• Memory: 16GB
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 4GB / AMD Radeon RX 570 4GB
• Disk: 45GB

PROS

• Enhanced Visuals – Improved lighting and textures.
• Modern Controls – Updated aiming and movement.
• Classic Stories – Nostalgic gameplay experience.
• Faster Load Times – Quicker game startup and transitions.
• Improved Minimap – Better navigation and waypoints.

CONS

• Numerous Bugs – Frequent glitches and crashes.
• Character Models – Awkward and inconsistent redesigns.
• Removed Features – Missing original songs and cheats.
• Performance Issues – Frame drops on all platforms.
• AI Problems – Poor enemy and NPC behavior.