4 Classic GTA Games from the PS2 Era You Can Play in 2025

If GTA is your favorite video game, you should remember the golden days that the PS2 brings. These classic games not only laid the groundwork for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 but also redefined video gaming as we know it today. The best part is, you can relive your childhood memories with the help of remastering and emulate these classic games come the year 2025.


Let’s relive our childhood and look back at the PS2 classic remastered GTA games we can play in 2025

1. Grand Theft Auto III (2001) - Where It All Began

Remembered as a revolutionary video game that launched the contemporary gaming world into the stratosphere, it was the first installment of the 3D open world GTA. The series is widely known for its set of creative GTA games and Ian Birdärd uniquely captures the ensemble of a not so loved world of criminals by giving the players a lot of room to move about, create havoc and build your ideal criminal empire across Liberty City.


How to Play in 2025: The magic of early open world gaming can be relived by playing THE GTA TRILOGY: DEFINITIVE EDITION, an enhanced version for modern consoles that comes with improved graphics and better control mechanics.

2. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002) - The Neon-Soaked Masterpiece

One of the fan favorites is Vice City that comes with an unforgettable Miami inspired overriding theme from the 1980s.

Everything from the vibrant streets lit with neon, to the epic soundtrack containing songs from Michael Jackson and Blondie, the game integrates style, action, along with a significant plot which revolves around Tommy Vercetti’s rise to power.


How to Play in 2025: Just like GTA III, Vice City is included in the GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition. This means you can now drive through the nostalgic streets Vice City has to offer with modern graphics and mechanics.

3. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004) – The Epic Game That Changed Everything

San Andreas ensured to take things up a notch with its expansive map containing 3 cities: Los Santos, San Fierro, and Las Venturas. It also implemented RPG features such as providing a means for players to control CJ’s look, stamina, and even his fighting prowess. It is undoubtedly one of the most dominating games in the franchise.


How to Play in 2025: San Andreas is included in the GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition along with all other games, giving it a new skin making it easier to enjoy for all the old and new players.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005) – The Underrated Masterpiece

Liberty City Stories was first on the PSP and serves as a prequel to GTA III, following Toni Cipriani's ascend to power in the world of crime. Even though it didn’t receive a remaster like the trilogy, this title still complements the Grand Theft Auto series well.


How to Play in 2025: This classic game can still be played on original PS2 consoles or emulated, ideal for those looking to enjoy the original, unfiltered GTA experience.


These older PS2 era GTA titles live on as more than just the nostalgic games that they are to many. They serve as a foundation for the future of open world gaming and immersiveness that we hope to see in GTA 6. Because of remasters and emulators, their legacy will live on, providing chaos and nostalgia to a new generation of gamers.


Also read - GTA 6 Age Ratings Might Disappoint Fans Around the World