Grand Theft Auto's Iconic Cover Design Only Exists Because Of 9

Key Points:

• The iconic segmented cover art for Grand Theft Auto 3 was created hastily in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, replacing the original cover that featured burning buildings deemed too offensive after the event.
• Rockstar's lead writer Dan Houser revealed that the new cover art, designed by Stephen Bliss in just two evenings, became a defining and enduring visual style for the GTA series.
• The aftermath of 9/11 also led to content changes in GTA 3, including re-coloring police cars and editing some dialogue to avoid insensitivity.
• GTA 3's success was pivotal for Rockstar and Take-Two Interactive, transforming them from struggling companies to major players in the gaming industry, with the game steadily selling well after its October 2001 release.
• Houser reflected on the cultural impact of GTA, noting how the cover art style has become widely recognized and popular, appearing on merchandise and influencing pop culture globally.