Completely redefined the series with this BLOCKBUSTER hit.
Grand Theft Auto III set a new standard in the gaming industry and became the number 1 "MUST HAVE" game for all platforms of 2002. The game combine so many great aspects and simple things that just weren't in video games at the time but made a huge difference. From open ended game play to go anywhere and do anything to detailed missions for rival crime families/organizations. The simple things of radio stations that played actual real life music to picking up hookers and driving to secluded places to restore health.
Grand Theft Auto III also has a great variety of vehicles with performance differences in each along with a great variety of weapons as well. The script, the acting, the music, the sound, the game play, the mission details were all done extremely well.
I will go as far to say that THIS is the most IMPORTANT game in the series and by that I mean if you have to pick ANY title of the Grand Theft Auto series that had the biggest influence and impact on the series, without a doubt it's this one.