# Grand Theft Auto franchise anniversaries

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/grand-theft-auto-franchise-anniversaries
> Updated: 2026-10-22T23:51:19.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The series has reached significant milestones for its major titles. Grand Theft Auto III celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking its role in transitioning the franchise from a top-down perspective to a three-dimensional open-world universe. 

Additionally, Grand Theft Auto IV marked 18 years since its release, noted for its realistic tone and its role in establishing the HD era of the series through advanced physics technology.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto III celebrates 25 years

Grand Theft Auto III celebrates 25 years since its 2001 release, marking its historical transition to 3D open-world gameplay.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rockstar-games-grand-theft-auto-iii-celebrates-25-years

### 2026-10-04: Grand Theft Auto IV marks 18 years since release

Eighteen years after its release, Grand Theft Auto IV is recognized for its realistic tone and for launching the HD era of Rockstar Games' franchise.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grand-theft-auto-iv-marks-18-years-since-release

---
Cite as: Grand Theft Auto franchise anniversaries. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/grand-theft-auto-franchise-anniversaries