Grand Theft Auto V is an open-world action-adventure video game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. Released in 2013, it is the fifth main entry in the Grand Theft Auto series and one of the most commercially successful entertainment products in history, celebrated for its expansive world and storytelling.

Key facts

• Release date: September 17, 2013
• Developer: Rockstar North
• Publisher: Rockstar Games
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Windows, and next-gen consoles
• Setting: Fictional state of San Andreas, based on Southern California

Setting and Story

Set in the sprawling, sun-soaked region of San Andreas and the city of Los Santos, Grand Theft Auto V follows three protagonists—Michael De Santa, Franklin Clinton, and Trevor Philips—whose intertwined lives center around crime, ambition, and betrayal. The game’s narrative structure allows players to switch between characters, offering multiple perspectives on missions and world events.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The game blends third-person shooting, driving, and exploration in a vast open world. Players can engage in heists, side activities, and free-form exploration. Innovations include character switching, a dynamic economy, and robust AI systems that make the world feel alive. Both single-player and the online component, Grand Theft Auto Online, support extensive customization and multiplayer gameplay.