The Ultimate Countdown: 10 Supreme GTA Games for PC

Ever since its inception in 1997, the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise has cultivated a passionate fan base with its remarkable gameplay, vibrant characters, and meticulously crafted world. The joyous and thrilling chaos that this series brings is unforgettable. Let's delve deep into the world of GTA and rank the ten best Grand Theft Auto games for PC, each offering unique graphics, storylines, and missions.

1. Grand Theft Auto V

Being the most recent addition to the franchise, GTA V has significantly changed the way we perceive open-world games. Released in 2013, this game still holds its position for its staggering ambition, immense detail, and diverse gameplay. With three compelling characters weaving in and out of heists, the storyline is beautifully transformed. The city of Los Santos is filled with well-architected structures, desert landscapes, oceans, and mountains, making it visually spectacular.

2. Grand Theft Auto IV

Released in 2008, GTA IV is an impressive game that introduced a profound storyline, finely tuned mechanics, and a mesmerizing simulacrum of New York City—known in-game as Liberty City. Despite its age, this game still boasts one of the most well-rounded narratives within the GTA series, following the journey of Nico Bellic, an immigrant from Eastern Europe entangled in crimes and corruption.

3. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Bold, voluminous, and wildly entertaining, GTA: San Andreas is often considered an expansive playground for mischief. Unveiled in 2004, this game introduced role-playing game (RPG) elements such as character customization and a broader array of vehicles. The game's protagonist, Carl 'CJ' Johnson's journey from gang-ridden streets to affluence provides an engaging narrative arc.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

GTA: Vice City, released in 2002, is a canvas of vibrant neon colors presenting an accurate representation of Miami in the 80s. This game was an evolution from its predecessor, offering an engaging storyline filled with memorable characters and side missions. The main character, Tommy Vercetti's rise as a crime lord in Vice City is enriched by stunning visuals and strong voice acting.

5. Grand Theft Auto III

GTA III launched in 2001, is regarded as a groundbreaking title that shaped the open-world genre. Set in Liberty City, it was the first game in the series that had a fully explorable 3D environment party to various criminal activities. Its cinematics and missions brought depth to the narcoleptic mobster Claude.

6. Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

Chinatown Wars, released in 2009, is a portable spin-off retained from the classic top-down view. The tale of Huang Lee, a spoiled rich kid striving for vengeance in the crime-ridden Liberty City, translates well into the unique DS hardware. Its stylized cartoon graphics and touch-screen mechanics offered a fresh and engaging GTA experience.

7. Grand Theft Auto 2

GTA 2, released in 1999, should not be overlooked. It progressed from the original title by introducing multiple rival gangs that you could work for or against. The game used an overhead perspective, allowing you an entire view of the city, turning city navigation into an easy task. The game makes the most out of its mechanics, with a variety of missions and cars.

8. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories

GTA: Liberty City Stories, introduced in 2005, takes the stage as a prequel to GTA III. Revisiting Liberty City with Toni Cipriani’s story of rising through the ranks of the mafia was an enjoyable run. Skirted with cinematic cutscenes and missions, the game became a great addition to handheld gaming while holding true to the series's theme.

9. Grand Theft Auto

The game that started it all, GTA, was a phenomenal success when it was launched in 1997. Although rudimentary compared to its successors, it laid the groundwork for what the franchise could be. It had an open world that was groundbreaking for its time, various cityscapes to explore, and a multitude of missions that brought the fun and versatility of what GTA could offer.

10. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories

Released after Liberty City Stories, Vice City Stories revisits Vice City with a new protagonist and storyline. The main character, Vic Vance, has his tale set two years before the original Vice City. The game maintains most of the mechanics from its predecessor but adds a few elements, such as a renewed empire-building mechanic. It stands as a decent entry title for gamers new to the beloved franchise.

Across distinct storylines, varied settings, assorted missions, and constant evolution in gameplay, the Grand Theft Auto series has carved an indelible mark in the gaming world. These ten games, each a masterpiece in its own right, celebrate the ethos of creativity, freedom, and adrenaline-pumping action that has become synonymous with GTA. So, fasten your seatbelts, illegal drivers - a grand, chaotic adventure awaits you!