The video game GTA sets the standard for how far you can go

The video game Grand Theft Auto pushes boundaries in terms of sex and violence. However, the game is designed for adults and is also on the cutting edge of technology and storytelling, says a game expert.

"GTA revolutionised storytelling in video games," says gaming researcher Tobias Scholz.

(Image: Agustin Paullier / Shutterstock / NTB)

Atle Christiansen COMMUNICATIONS ADVISER

Presented by: University of Agder

Published 23 May 2025 - 00:00

“Grand Theft Auto, or GTA, is a video game in the action-adventure genre. The series combines driving, shooting, and role-playing elements,” says Tobias Michael Scholz.

He is an associate professor at the University of Agder. Scholz researches gaming and is an expert in video games and game development.

There is always debate around GTA whenever new teasers or versions of the game are released. The debate stems from the game's controversial use of sex and violence. But also from the fact that GTA sets the standard for what is possible in a modern game.

Scholz reminds us that the game is rated 18+ and is intended for adults.

Controversial and innovative game

“The GTA series is controversial primarily due to its depiction of violence, sex, and crime. However, the storytelling is innovative and sophisticated. The game pays attention to details which makes it believable and varied,” says Scholz.

Portrett forsker — “GTA revolutionised storytelling in video games,” says Tobias Scholz.

GTA V was released by Rockstar Games in 2013. GTA VI will be released May 26, 2026. That marks 13 years since the previous version of the game.

“Rockstar Games takes a long time to develop new versions of GTA. This is reflected in the increasing complexity and refined details required for the game. GTA VI is being developed using the latest version of the RAGE engine. This means there will be significant technical improvements over the previous version,” says Scholz.

A set storyline and a free story you create yourself

“GTA is not a traditional 'who wins' game,” says the expert.

Instead, the game presents an open world. Players can largely influence what happens in the game themselves. This freedom is what has fascinated experienced gamers since the first version of GTA was released in 1997.

“Players can choose the extent to which they want to follow the main storyline in addition to exploring the game world on their own,” he says.

The main storyline typically involves the protagonist's rise in the criminal underworld. Players can run businesses, complete various missions, or simply explore the vast game world.

Revolutionising the gaming world

“GTA revolutionised storytelling in video games,” says Scholz.

The game features complex and morally ambiguous characters, along with sharp societal satire.

“The series is known for its advanced character presentation. Characters develop throughout the game in the same way as those in films and TV shows,” he says.

Technologically, the GTA series paved the way for players to freely move between indoor and outdoor locations.

“The game's environments are realistic, and with advanced use of artificial intelligence, the game can become even more realistic,” says Scholz.

He highlights some of the game's innovations so far:

Characteristics and innovations of GTA

The game has provided enormous freedom for players in urban settings where they can switch between following a story through narrative modules or playing freely.
It set a new standard for the use of professional actors in fully cinematic cutscenes.
It was among the first games to have a vibrant and realistic city with pedestrians and traffic that responded to the player's actions, and with changing weather conditions.
The game set a new standard for modern game design now followed by others.
The game's details make it more realistic than many other video games.

“Each new game in the series pushes the boundaries of what's possible within gaming technology. GTA VI is expected to set new standards for the use of artificial intelligence. There are likely to be more details that will make the game even more realistic,” says Scholz.

He finds it difficult to be more specific about the improvements in GTA VI.

“The promotional clips for new game versions can be misleading,” says Scholz.

A satirical game for adults

“GTA presents a heightened, exaggerated, and caricatured version of reality. The exaggerations serve as a kind of commentary on societal issues. The satire is obvious to adult players. Particularly its parody of American consumer culture, politics, and social media,” says Scholz.

GTA presents a fictional world based on reality. The sixth version of GTA will be set primarily in the city of Leonida, a fictional version of Florida. Parts of the game will also take place in the metropolis of Vice City, based on Miami.

“Previous game versions were set in other fictional American cities. The cities are still based on real cities. Liberty City is based on New York, and Los Santos on Los Angeles,” says Scholz.

The game has generated massive revenue

Version 5 of GTA has generated over 7.7 billion dollars in revenue since its release in 2013. That makes the game on of the most financially successful pop culture products ever.

“The series has had a significant influence on popular culture, impacting music, fashion, and broader entertainment. GTA Online has also established a new model for long-term player engagement, contributing additional revenue. These models have influenced how other games manage their content and player engagement as well,” says Scholz.