Table of Contents

Are All GTA Games Canon? Understanding the Grand Theft Auto Universe

The short answer is a resounding no. Not all Grand Theft Auto (GTA) games are considered canon to each other within a single, unified timeline. Rockstar Games, the developer of the GTA series, has officially designated three distinct universes: the 2D Universe, the 3D Universe, and the HD Universe. While these universes may share locations, characters, and even plot elements, they exist as separate entities within the broader GTA mythos. This means that events occurring in one universe are not necessarily considered to have happened in another. Think of it like a multiverse – similar, but not exactly the same.

Dividing the Grand Theft Auto World: The Three Universes

Understanding these universes is crucial to grasping the concept of canon within the GTA franchise. Each universe features its own distinct style, tone, and character continuity.

The 2D Universe

This universe comprises the original Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Auto 2, and their respective expansion packs (Grand Theft Auto: London 1969 and Grand Theft Auto: London 1961). These games are characterized by their top-down perspective and more simplistic gameplay mechanics. Due to their age and significant differences in tone and presentation, Rockstar does not consider them directly connected to the later, more sophisticated games.

The 3D Universe

The 3D Universe marks a significant shift in the series. It encompasses Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories. These games, while sharing a similar visual style and gameplay mechanics, occur within the same continuity. Characters and events from one game can be referenced or even directly appear in others. For example, Claude Speed, the silent protagonist of GTA III, makes a cameo appearance in San Andreas. These connections solidify the 3D Universe as a shared and interconnected world.

The HD Universe

The HD Universe represents the current state of the GTA series, featuring drastically improved graphics, physics, and overall gameplay. It consists of Grand Theft Auto IV, Grand Theft Auto V, and Grand Theft Auto Online. These games are set in a more realistic and detailed world, sharing a single continuity. Characters from GTA IV, such as Patrick “Packie” McReary, can be encountered in GTA V, illustrating the interconnectedness of the HD Universe. GTA Online, in particular, has expanded upon the events of GTA V, solidifying the HD Universe’s status as the current canon for the series.

Canon and Player Choice: The Case of GTA V’s Endings

Even within a single universe, the concept of canon can be complex. GTA V offers players a choice of three endings. However, Rockstar has implicitly established Option C: Deathwish as the canon ending. This is supported by references within GTA Online, which continues the story after the events of GTA V. Choosing Deathwish ensures the survival of all three protagonists – Michael, Franklin, and Trevor – and allows for their continued involvement in GTA Online’s narrative. This decision highlights how Rockstar can selectively establish canon even within a game offering multiple choices.

Are All GTA Games Canon? An Overview

Universe	Games	Key Features	Connected?
—————–	———————————————————————————————————	————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–	————
2D Universe	Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Auto 2, Grand Theft Auto: London 1969, Grand Theft Auto: London 1961	Top-down perspective, simplistic gameplay, older titles.	No
3D Universe	Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories	3D perspective, shared characters and events, interconnected storylines.	Yes
HD Universe	Grand Theft Auto IV, Grand Theft Auto V, Grand Theft Auto Online	High-definition graphics, realistic physics, detailed world, shared continuity, supported by GTA Online.	Yes

Ultimately, understanding the different universes and Rockstar’s selective approach to canon helps players appreciate the richness and complexity of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. While not all games are directly connected, they all contribute to the overall lore and legacy of the series. For more insight into the design and impact of games like GTA, explore resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About GTA Canon

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the concept of canon within the Grand Theft Auto series:

Is GTA 3 canon to GTA 5?

While they are both part of the broader GTA franchise, GTA 3 (3D Universe) and GTA 5 (HD Universe) are not directly canon to each other. They exist in separate continuities. However, small Easter Eggs or nods may appear.
Which GTA option is canon for GTA V’s ending?

Option C: Deathwish is generally considered the canon ending for GTA V, as supported by events and character appearances in GTA Online.
Are all GTA games in the same universe?

No, the GTA series is divided into three distinct parallel universes: the 2D Universe, the 3D Universe, and the HD Universe.
Is GTA Vice City Stories canon to GTA San Andreas?

Yes, both Vice City Stories and San Andreas belong to the 3D Universe, making them part of the same continuity. Characters or events from one game can be referenced or appear in the other.
Do any San Andreas characters appear in GTA 5?

While not a major role, some members of Grove Street Families appear in GTA 5, specifically in the mission “Hood Safari.” This is more of an Easter egg or reference than a major plot connection.
Does New York exist in GTA?

New York City does not explicitly exist within the GTA universe. However, Liberty City is heavily based on New York City, serving as its fictional counterpart.
Are GTA and Red Dead Redemption connected?

There are Easter eggs and references between the GTA and Red Dead Redemption series, suggesting a potential shared timeline or universe. However, Rockstar has never officially confirmed a direct canonical connection between the two franchises.
Which ending is canon in RDR2?

While there are multiple endings based on Arthur Morgan’s honor level, the general consensus is that the high honor ending is most consistent with the game’s themes and character development.
Is Michael alive in GTA Online?

Yes, Michael De Santa is still alive after the events of GTA V and makes appearances in GTA Online, confirming that Option C (Deathwish) is indeed the canon ending.
Is GTA 4 canon to GTA 5?

Yes, GTA 4 and GTA 5 are both part of the HD Universe, sharing a continuity. Characters from GTA 4, like Packie McReary, appear in GTA 5.
Is GTA 5 an endless game?

While the single-player campaign has a definitive ending, GTA Online is designed to be an ongoing, evolving experience with regular updates and new content.
Why is GTA 3 considered the hardest game in the series?

GTA 3 is often considered challenging due to its limited save points, unforgiving vehicle durability, and dangerous gang territories. These factors make exploration and mission completion more difficult compared to later entries in the series.
What is the darkest GTA game?

Grand Theft Auto IV is often cited as the darkest GTA game due to its serious tone, mature themes, and the tragic backstory of its protagonist, Niko Bellic.
Which GTA game is bigger than GTA 5?

In terms of sheer landmass, some games like Fallout 4 are larger than GTA V. However, the density of activities and detail in GTA V’s world often makes it feel more expansive and engaging.
Are there plans to merge the GTA universes?

As of now, there are no official plans to merge the GTA universes. Rockstar seems to be content with maintaining them as distinct entities, allowing for creative freedom and diverse storytelling opportunities. This allows fans to enjoy different eras and styles within the broader Grand Theft Auto franchise.

Are all GTA games canon?