Grand Theft Auto III cover art redesigned following September 11 attacks

The iconic cover art for Grand Theft Auto III was redesigned in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks. Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser revealed that the original cover, which featured a design reminiscent of classic action movie posters, was deemed too offensive to release following the attacks because it included depictions of burning buildings.

To address this, senior artist Stephen Bliss created the game’s signature grid-style tile design in approximately two evenings. This spontaneous change became a defining visual element for the series.

Released in late 2001, Grand Theft Auto III significantly influenced the gaming industry by popularizing the modern open-world 'sandbox' model. Developed by DMA Design, the title integrated street-level perspectives, vehicle theft, and non-linear mission structures, establishing a design grammar that remains a standard for action games today.