The most clearly documented way to play the 1997 original on a modern PC is to use a copy you are entitled to use, install it with its Windows installer, and run its DOS edition through DOSBox. If you already own the legacy GTA Classics Steam pack, Rockstar also documents how to open the game’s settings file. A community Windows compatibility bundle called GTA Ready2Play is another option, but the sources available do not establish authorization for the game files it includes.
First, make sure you have the right Grand Theft Auto
This guide is about Grand Theft Auto (1997), the original game by DMA Design, published by BMG Interactive—not Grand Theft Auto III or a later trilogy collection. The DOSBox project identifies the original as a 1997 release and documents both DOS and Windows versions: DOSBoxWiki: Grand Theft Auto.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choose a route based on the copy you have
| Route | Best suited to | What is documented | Important limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legacy GTA Classics Steam copy | Players who already own the pack | Rockstar’s support article explains how to launch the game from its settings file when changing controls. | The article documents support for an existing legacy pack, not current store availability. |
| DOS edition with DOSBox | Players with an original copy who are comfortable configuring an emulator | Install using the Windows installer first, then run the DOS game through DOSBox; the project lists the game as supported. | Historical compatibility reports include crashes, sound problems, and performance issues. |
| GTA Ready2Play | Players seeking a bundled Windows compatibility setup | A PC Gamer report describes portable launching, widescreen support, audio fixes, updated DirectDraw handling, language options, and both expansions. | It is a community project; the reviewed sources do not establish authorization for its included game files. |
| Original PC retail media | Collectors or players who specifically want physical media | The original PC release and its Windows/DOS context are documented by DOSBoxWiki. | Check each listing for authenticity, completeness, condition, and current availability; owning a disc does not ensure modern plug-and-play operation. |
Useful deciding factors are whether you already own a copy, how much setup you are willing to do, whether you want the Windows or DOS version, your operating system, expansion support, and confidence in the source of the game files.
Recommended Free Tools
Run the DOS version through DOSBox
- Start with a copy you are entitled to use. DOSBox’s game page recommends installing with the game’s Windows installer before playing its DOS edition.
- Install the game using that Windows installer. The DOSBox guidance does not promise that every modern Windows configuration will behave identically.
- Run the DOS edition through DOSBox. The project marks the game as supported, but its compatibility listing also preserves older reports of crashes, audio trouble, and performance issues. Treat support as a workable route, not a guarantee of flawless results on every PC. See DOSBoxWiki’s game instructions and its linked compatibility information.
Use Rockstar’s settings-file instructions for an existing Steam copy
Rockstar’s support article is specifically useful if you already have the legacy GTA Classics Steam pack and need to change controls. It says to open the game from its settings file in the installation folder. The documented folder is Steamsteamappscommongrand theft auto; on 64-bit Windows, the Steam library may be under Program Files (x86). Follow the exact steps in Rockstar’s settings instructions, last updated June 20, 2023. This article documents a legacy installation path; it does not confirm that the pack can currently be purchased.
#1 Best Overall
- With broad game support, the Logitech Gamepad F310 works with old standbys to today's biggest titles, so it's easy to set up and use with your favorite games.
- Profiler software allows the gamepad to be programmed to perform keyboard and mouse commands for games without gamepad support.* * Requires software installation.
- A familiar control layout that doesn't require a learning curve to be able to use, with all the same buttons as on an Xbox 360.
- The unique floating D-pad rests on four switches-instead of a single pivot point-making it responsive to quick changes in direction.
- The six-foot cord lets you lean back and play a comfortable distance from your PC monitor.
What to know about GTA Ready2Play
PC Gamer reported on February 8, 2026, that community creator LukeStorm had packaged a Windows compatibility setup with the base game and both expansions. Reported features include language options, widescreen support, audio fixes, updated DirectDraw handling, and a portable launcher. The creator described the goal as: “I wanted to have GTA (Windows version) with the best possible compatibility and without classic installation in my Ready2Play style—that was my only idea.” That is the creator’s stated aim, not a Rockstar endorsement or a guarantee of compatibility.
The same report says the creator had not personally tested Steam Deck or Linux, although users had reported trying those platforms. Those reports are not controlled compatibility tests. The sources reviewed do not establish that Rockstar authorized the bundle’s game files. Rockstar’s general legal terms provide context about rights in Rockstar content, but do not resolve the status of this particular package or the law that applies to an individual reader. Use a copy you are entitled to use and check the rules where you live. Read the coverage at PC Gamer; the project’s community thread is at GTAForums.
Rank #2
- Wide Compatibility: VOYEE wired 360 controller compatible with Microsoft Xbox 360 & Slim/ PC (Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7). Just plug and play, not for FPS games
- Enhanced Game Controller: Upgraded PC 360 controller with new left and right trigger buttons and more sensitive joysticks and buttons - Respond quickly to player commands without delay
- Astonishing Gaming Experience: VOYEE wired pc controller provides rumble control and according to the game automatic vibration feedback to enhanced game experience and match your personal preference
- Ergonomic Design: Grips's contours have been designed to fit your hands more comfortably to hold for a long time and 7.2ft cord allows greater
- What You Get: VOYEE wired 360/PC Controller, 45 Days Money Back, 365 Days Guarantee Against quality defect and 24 Hours Friendly Customer Support
Is the original available on GOG?
As of October 7, 2026, GOG’s Dreamlist page asks users to vote to bring the 1997 Grand Theft Auto to the store. A Dreamlist request is not a released listing or proof of a current purchase option. Check the GOG Dreamlist page for its current status.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- COMPATIBILITY: Support PC Computer, Laptop, Notebook. Windows XP/7/8/10/11, Steam, PS 3
- COMPATIBILITY FOR ANDROID: Support Android Mobile Phone/Tablet/TV/Box(system version 4.0 or above, and the device must fully support OTG function). Need to purchase a OTG adapter or cable for the Android device with Type-C or Micro-USB port.
- PLUG AND PLAY: Only for PC games supporting Xinput mode / Android mobile games supporting Android mode / PS 3. No need to install drivers except for Windows XP.
- PRODUCT FEATURE: Multi-mode: Xinput & Dinput & Android & PS 3 / Vibration Feedback Function / JD-SWTICH Function / TURBO Function
- NOTICE: This USB Wired PC Controller Gamepad does not support the Xbox 360 / Xbox One / Mac OS / PS4
Rank #4
- 【Supported Operating System】The Game Controller is specifically designed for playing classic old school retro snes games on computer or laptop. Compatible with Windows 98 / ME / Vista / 2000/2003 / XP / 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10/11, Mac OS X/ OS X 10.0 and beyond, Raspberry Pi, Raspberry PI 2 model B,Model A, Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+, Raspberry Pi 2,Raspberry Pi OS, Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+, Raspberry Pi 3, Raspberry Pi Zero.
- 【Simple USB Plug and Play】If your program or application accepts USB controller input, this classic game controller do not need install drivers or patches. 1.5 meter external cable(approx. 5 ft. Long). Notice: Please download the game emulator first before start the games, and then you must manually set the buttons and directionals within the emulator you're using, and the controller not automatically assigns buttons/directional axes. If on the Steam platform, you need to first enable Steam's "Universal Controller Configuration Support" and then restart Steam. After entering the game, you also need to manually bind key positions in the game
- 【High Sensitivity without Delay】Super sensitive buttons for precision control: 6 fire buttons, a 'Start' button and a 'Select' button, motion control cross. Play your favorite old school games with classic retro feel. Fits perfectly in the hand and also perfect for two player action.Note: Not applicable to Switch/PS games. Not Compatible with TV/ TV Box, third Mini Games Box and Tesla Model 3
- 【Supported Game Emulators】The game controller works with most emulators. Download any emulator you wish to download and use from Google and do the same with ROMS. Notice:Third party controller, not original controller. But it works phenomenal with the Raspberry Pi game emulation and so on
- 【Product Service】If you have any problem during use, send message to us and we will help you to solve the problem soon
Rank #3
- ✅【Compatibility】Compatible with Raspberry Pi, Windows PC, Linux ,Mac. Specifically designed for playing classic old school retro snes games on computer or laptop.This is the USB controller what has a USB plug for PC, NOT compatible for Original SNES super Nintendo console
- ✅ 【Ergonomic Design】Super precise cross key and function buttons,the cross direction key adopts frosted concave design,anti-sweat and anti-slip.The shape of the controller is designed to fit the contour of your hands,easy and comfortable to hold.
- ✅ 【Advanced Game Experience】PC running operating system:Windows 98/2000/ ME/XP/Vista/Win7/8/8.1/11 or later,or Mac running OS X 10.0/Mac OS X or above.It works with most of emulators you wish to download and use,such as VirtuaNES(PC),sens9x,Zsens,sensgt,Uosnesw,RetroArch,OpenEmu(MAC),NESEmu and Jnes etc.
- ✅ 【Wired USB Connection】Standard USB 2.0 port with a 1.5 meters (5ft) cable, don't need to install any drivers, you must manually set the buttons and directionals within the emulator you're using, and the controller not automatically assigns buttons/directional axes. Notice: please download the game emulator first before start the games, you can download the emulator “VirtuaNES” on PC and “OpenEmu”on MAC.
- ✅【Satisfaction】Third party controller(USB Version), not for original snes console and not support for switch. If there is an incompatibility on MAC or Raspberry Pi , please contact the seller for a support.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
