Grand Theft Auto II Review

Grand Theft Auto II, developed by DMA Design (now Rockstar North) and published by Rockstar Games, brought its unique brand of top-down urban chaos to the PlayStation 1 (PS1) in 1999. Following the controversial success of the original, GTA 2 PS1 refined the formula, offering a sprawling open-world crime sandbox with a distinct multi-gang system and plenty of dark humor. This Grand Theft Auto II PS1 review explores its place in gaming history.

Gameplay: Multi-Gang Mayhem and Wanted Levels

At its core, Grand Theft Auto II is a top-down, open-world crime game. Players take on the role of Claude Speed (though his name is never explicitly stated in-game), a silent criminal navigating the futuristic, retro-styled “Anywhere City.” The game is divided into three districts, each controlled by various eccentric criminal factions.

A key innovation was the multi-gang system. By performing missions for one gang, you would gain their trust but potentially lose favor with their rivals, adding a strategic layer to your criminal endeavors. Missions ranged from simple assassinations and car thefts to elaborate heists and destructive rampages. The police chases were more intense than ever, with a multi-tiered “Wanted Level” system escalating from local cops to SWAT teams, the army, and even the FBI. The PS1 controls, while adapted from the PC, felt responsive, allowing for precise driving and shooting in the chaotic environment.

• Dynamic multi-gang reputation system
• Varied missions including assassinations, thefts, and destruction
• Escalating “Wanted Level” system with diverse law enforcement
• Top-down perspective offering a unique view of the chaos
• Dozens of vehicles to steal and drive

Story and Setting: Anywhere City’s Grimy Future

Grand Theft Auto II is set in the generic, yet memorable, Anywhere City, a sprawling metropolis with a distinct retro-futuristic aesthetic. The game’s setting is less about a deep narrative and more about providing a playground for criminal activities. The story is driven by the various gangs and their demands, with a heavy dose of the series’ signature dark humor and satire.

The game’s world is filled with quirky pedestrians, hidden packages, and telephone booths that serve as mission givers. The atmosphere is gritty and cynical, perfectly reflecting the criminal underworld it portrays.

Graphics and Sound: 2D Charm and Radio Waves

Visually, Grand Theft Auto II on the PlayStation 1 maintained the 2D top-down graphics of its predecessor, but with enhanced detail and a slightly darker color palette. The city felt alive, with moving traffic, pedestrians, and dynamic lighting effects (especially during the day/night cycle).

The sound design was a highlight, particularly the in-car radio stations. Each station featured a diverse range of fictional music genres, from pop to rock and electronic, complete with hilarious commercials and DJ banter. This added immense personality and atmosphere to the game, making driving around Anywhere City a joy. The sound effects for explosions, gunshots, and vehicle crashes were impactful, contributing to the chaotic fun.

Legacy: Paving the Way for 3D

Grand Theft Auto II was a crucial stepping stone in the evolution of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. While it retained the top-down perspective, its refinements in gameplay systems, particularly the gang mechanics, laid important groundwork for the series’ eventual leap into 3D with GTA III. It remains a beloved cult classic for many retro gaming enthusiasts.

Is Grand Theft Auto II on PS1 Worth Playing Today?

For fans of the Grand Theft Auto series and classic PS1 games, Grand Theft Auto II is definitely worth revisiting. While its top-down perspective might feel dated to some, its unique multi-gang system, chaotic missions, and signature humor still provide a fun and engaging sandbox experience. It’s a fascinating look at the series’ origins and a testament to its early innovation.