2. Megastrophic

Available for over a year

After the success of the first Grand Theft Auto, a second title nearly didn’t happen. Its original label shut its doors – meaning Sam Houser and a group of friends took the chance that would change video gaming forever. They’d move to New York and begin Rockstar Games: the iconic label that would take GTA into the future. Keen to stamp their identity on the scene, they were poster children for a new generation of video games. With Grand Theft Auto III, they would ignite a firestorm of criticism that would see them gain true notoriety. GTA outraged the American political establishment with its depictions of violence toward sex workers and police – yet was a game comparable to any mature movie, with its remarkable new cinematic style. It all placed Rockstar Games at the pinnacle of game-making cool. WARNING: This podcast contains adult language, depictions of violence and themes of a sexual nature. -- CREDITS: Written by Ciaran Tracey and Chris Warburton Presenter: Bugzy Malone Presenter: Chris Warburton Mixing and Mastering: James Bradshaw Assistant Producer: Gabrielle Gatti Additional journalism by Jo Newsholme, Helen Ledwick and Laura Conder Executive Commissioners for BBC: Richard Maddock and Dylan Haskins Assistant Commissioner: Natalie Mace The Executive Producer is Ciaran Tracey for Big City Nights