The Ultimate Crime Action Games You Need to Play Besides Grand Theft Auto

Highlights

Alternative Crime-Focused Action Games for Grand Theft Auto Fans

For fans who enjoy the criminal-themed action of Grand Theft Auto, there are a number of other options available. Among them, Sleeping Dogs stands out by offering a distinctive twist on the GTA formula. This game presents a more serious tone and places a greater emphasis on hand-to-hand combat.

"Mafia II" delivers an immersive cinematic adventure, accompanied by an engaging narrative and an impressive range of customization options and additional activities.

The "Yakuza" franchise may not boast the explosive missions of GTA, but it excels in delivering a superb action-packed crime gaming experience, complemented by captivating storytelling and intense beat-em-up combat, all set within a captivating Japanese backdrop.

The Grand Theft Auto franchise is undoubtedly one of the most influential IPs in the gaming industry. With over a dozen games, GTA has established itself as a dominant force in the open-world crime genre. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of GTA 6, it's worth exploring other games that draw inspiration from or share similarities with Rockstar's flagship franchise.

Grand Theft Auto serves as the benchmark against which games set in urban environments or featuring similar gameplay or story elements are often judged. While this may seem unfair, it is inevitable that games set in urban landscapes, with a grounded tone and open-world design, will share some common mechanics, tone, or overall structure. However, there are numerous exceptional games that manage to distinguish themselves from the rest, possibly even rivaling GTA's success.

Sleeping Dogs

Mafia II

Although it adheres to many of the traditions and conventions established by GTA, such as the ability to steal cars and own apartments, Sleeping Dogs, released in 2012, presented a fresh spin on the time-honored GTA formula. Players take on the role of an undercover member of the Hong Kong Police Force, navigating their way through the seedy criminal world of the city. The game adopts a more serious tone compared to most GTA games, drawing inspiration from classic crime dramas like Infernal Affairs. However, fans of GTA will still find themselves in familiar territory when it comes to the mission structure, side activities, and expansive open world. What sets Sleeping Dogs apart is its emphasis on hand-to-hand combat rather than relying heavily on firearms, resulting in a gameplay experience that feels distinct from other crime-focused games.

Mafia II is a crime-centric game that rivals any installment in the GTA series. It is a must-play for fans of gangster flicks and gritty, urban dramas à la Scorsese. Positioned as the middle entry in the Mafia trilogy, the game masterfully captivates players with its storytelling prowess. They will embark on a journey spanning six years, witnessing the protagonist, Vito Scaletta, navigate his time in the military while experiencing the ever-evolving tastes and sentiments of 20th-century America. The immersive experience is akin to watching a cinematic masterpiece, where narrative takes center stage. However, players can also engage in a plethora of side activities, collect cars and other items, and enjoy a high level of customization, making it a game that offers substantial content.

Yakuza Zero

While GTA may have bombastic missions and industry-leading online multiplayer, the Yakuza franchise offers a truly exceptional action crime gaming experience. Every game in the franchise is fantastic and worth exploring, but for newcomers, Yakuza Zero serves as an excellent starting point. It not only tells the origin story of series co-leads Majima and Kiryu but also incorporates modern sensibilities and resources. Yakuza Zero seamlessly combines melodramatic storytelling, comedic side missions, and intense beat-em-up combat within a captivating, authentic Japanese setting. Exploring this world is always an absolute delight.

There's no denying the popularity and excellence of Grand Theft Auto, thanks to Rockstar's dedication in creating polished, rewarding gaming experiences. Their innovative features and mechanics have even shaped and defined the genre. However, it's crucial for gaming enthusiasts to broaden their horizons and not overlook other games that explore similar premises. These underrated gems can shine just as brightly as Grand Theft Auto and deserve recognition.