Simply a fine collection of the three PlayStation originals – GTA, GTA2 and GTA London 1969 - Take 2’s Collector’s Edition, arriving somewhat later than anticipated, is finally ready. And with some 11 million UK PlayStation and PS2 owners, it’s bound to sell a few, and rightly so.

Endearing yourself to a family of mobsters by doing their dirty work is something of a controversial theme for a video game. Take to the streets on foot, steal a car, any car, and get yourself to the pay-phone t ... more >>

Simply a fine collection of the three PlayStation originals – GTA, GTA2 and GTA London 1969 - Take 2’s Collector’s Edition, arriving somewhat later than anticipated, is finally ready. And with some 11 million UK PlayStation and PS2 owners, it’s bound to sell a few, and rightly so.

Endearing yourself to a family of mobsters by doing their dirty work is something of a controversial theme for a video game. Take to the streets on foot, steal a car, any car, and get yourself to the pay-phone to receive your instructions regarding the next dirty deed. Then, and this is the real fun in Grand Theft Auto, get out on the road and cause as much mayhem as you like getting the job done. Some kind of road rage takes over you as you mow down innocent pedestrians. Indeed, steal a police car, run over the former occupant, and the cops will be on your case. The radio station that plays whilst you’re racing around the city will let you know when the Feds are coming for you. This may be the ideal time for a fresh paint job and some false plates, we think.

Your mission within each of these games, should you choose to accept it, is to work your way to the top of a virtual crime ladder by completing tasks and avoiding the police, thus earning respect from your seniors. There are literally hundreds of missions to challenge your crime abilities. Transport within these missions is of vital importance, so vehicles such as corporate Limousines and ice cream trucks have been provided to aid you. Experience for yourself every classic car chase ever seen. Race at breakneck speed through an immense living city, out-running and out-witting rival gang members, mercenaries, hired killers and an entire police force.

Grand Theft Auto was the game that started it all, it’s sequel proved a great game could be improved upon, and the GTA London release reinforced the series as a whole as one of the most memorable in the industry. All three games are fantastic and are well worth playing... provided you’re above the ripe old age of 18. << less