How a Bug Created Grand Theft Auto – Retro Replay FYI

Today, Grand Theft Auto is one of the most recognizable franchises in gaming history. Known for its open worlds, crime filled stories, and freedom to cause absolute chaos, it has defined generations of players. But what if I told you the entire series only exists because of a programming mistake?

Back in the mid 1990s, developer DMA Design (later renamed Rockstar North) was working on a simple cops and robbers style racing game. The idea was straightforward. You would race around a city, try to outrun police cars, and complete missions while staying one step ahead of the law. It was fun enough, but nothing revolutionary.

Then something strange happened. A bug in the code allowed players to drive into pedestrians, sending them flying across the screen. The developers expected to fix it, but when they tested the game, they found themselves laughing at the mayhem. Instead of removing the glitch, they leaned into it. They added points for running down civilians, created missions around criminal activity, and built a game that thrived on chaos and dark humor.

What started as a quirky accident became the core of Grand Theft Auto. That little bug shaped one of the most controversial and successful video game series ever made. Without it, there might never have been Vice City, San Andreas, or the record breaking GTA V.

Sometimes the best features are the ones you never planned for.

Do you remember the first time you caused chaos in GTA instead of following the missions, or were you one of the rare players who actually drove politely?