Anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6, the latest installment in the nearly three-decade-old series, is building as its launch approaches, following a 13-year wait, two delays, and several leaks. Developer Rockstar Games is keeping the highly awaited title tightly under wraps, so much so that even the original creators of the first game have not yet had the opportunity to experience what has been created.
Dave Jones, co-creator of Grand Theft Auto, expressed his eagerness to see the new game, a sentiment shared by Brian Baglow, the original game’s writer and publicist, who noted he has already pre-ordered it, according to the BBC. The inaugural Grand Theft Auto was released in 1997, developed in Dundee, Scotland, by DMA Design. The studio, known for its puzzle game Lemmings, initially explored a racing game concept called Race’n’Chase.
Jones explained that DMA Design’s developers aimed for innovation. A key breakthrough, which gamers now often take for granted, was the ability to exit the vehicle. This mechanic, combining driving with the freedom to steal and switch cars while on foot, created a compelling mix of gameplay, he added. The team considered allowing players to choose between a criminal or police role, but ultimately opted for the criminal narrative, finding it ‘more fun’ to portray the antagonist.
From Niche Hit to Cultural Phenomenon
Despite its novel design, the original Grand Theft Auto initially saw slower sales compared to Lemmings, requiring players to experience it firsthand to grasp its appeal, Jones observed. However, word-of-mouth recommendations led to sustained sales throughout its release year, Baglow noted. The game’s themes of violence and criminality generated controversy, sparking debates and calls for bans in the UK Parliament, though it later emerged that much of this was a viral marketing initiative orchestrated by its publisher, BMG Interactive.
With its 2D, top-down perspective and arcade-like visuals, the 1997 title established the foundation for the series’ distinctive satire. Although set in exaggerated American cities, its Scottish roots were evident in its humor and outsider viewpoint, according to Guardian video games editor Keza MacDonald. Constraints like budget and licensing costs led the team to invent cheeky brand names and fictional radio stations, contributing to the game’s immersive world-building—an element Baglow expressed particular pride in.
The series evolved significantly, with Grand Theft Auto V, released in 2013, generating $1 billion in just three days, a record for an entertainment product at the time. Grand Theft Auto has become a global cultural touchstone, influencing movies and serving as a common reference point. Jones attributes this widespread recognition to the game’s basis in real life, distinguishing it from fantasy or sci-fi genres.
Scotland’s Evolving Gaming Landscape
The original Grand Theft Auto was entirely the product of a Scottish team, many of whom were novices without formal game design degrees, Brian Baglow recalled. DMA Design, the studio behind the first game, later transformed into Rockstar North, based in Edinburgh, and now employs over 1,000 people. Scotland’s gaming industry has expanded considerably since the early 1990s, with Abertay University in Dundee launching the world’s first computer games degree in 1997, creating a crucial talent pipeline.
The number of gaming companies in Scotland increased significantly from about 15 in 2010 to approximately 130 in 2024. Chris van der Kuyl, co-founder of 4J Studios, known for adapting Minecraft for consoles, highlights the industry’s growth beyond Rockstar’s prominence. Scotland is now recognized internationally as a leading hub for game development, compared to established regions like Sweden and the US west coast.
This growth of a strong, localized game development ecosystem, exemplified by Scotland, is significant for the global gaming market. It fosters diverse perspectives and content that challenge established norms, driving innovation beyond the major studios. Such regional hubs ensure a steady supply of new talent and creative ideas, ultimately enriching the global gaming landscape and offering a wider array of experiences for international players.
However, sustaining growth presents challenges. Jon McKellan, co-founder of Glasgow-based Screen Burn, which earned a BAFTA for ‘Observation’ and developed ‘Silent Hill: Townfall,’ notes that Rockstar’s substantial presence can overshadow smaller studios, making it difficult for them to attract attention and talent. He points out that while the creative talent exists, the industry struggles to create enough opportunities to retain graduates and grow studios through multi-year development cycles, requiring continuous investment and support to flourish against intense global competition.
Image: BBC
Sources consulted
- BBC: Even Grand Theft Auto’s original creators haven’t been able to play GTA 6
- BBC: Scotland created Grand Theft Auto – is its video game industry still thriving?
- Modern Ghana: Is Scottish-born GTA a mirror of America? | The Global Story
Livia Dorne covers film, television, music, and pop culture with a keen editorial perspective. She delivers engaging commentary, reviews, and behind-the-scenes insights that keep readers connected to the entertainment world. Her style blends critique with storytelling.
