Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
To play the 1997 original Grand Theft Auto on a modern Windows PC, use a copy you are entitled to use, install it with its Windows installer, then run the DOS edition through DOSBox. If you already own the legacy GTA Classics Steam pack, Rockstar also documents how to open its settings file to change controls. Other options include a community-made Windows compatibility package, but its authorization and compatibility claims need careful qualification.
Make sure you have the 1997 original
This guide is about Grand Theft Auto, the 1997 game by DMA Design and publisher BMG Interactive—not Grand Theft Auto III or a later trilogy release. The DOSBox project identifies the original game and documents its DOS version and Windows installer: 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 to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Legacy GTA Classics Steam pack | Players who already own the pack | Rockstar documents launching the game from its settings file to change controls. The support article does not establish that the pack is currently available for purchase: Rockstar Support. |
| DOS edition with DOSBox | Players with a legitimate copy who are comfortable using an emulator | Install using the Windows installer first, then run the DOS game in DOSBox. The project marks it supported, but its compatibility record retains historical reports of crashes, sound problems, and performance issues: DOSBoxWiki. |
| GTA Ready2Play | Players looking for a packaged Windows compatibility setup | PC Gamer reports that this community-made package includes the base game and both expansions, with a portable launcher, widescreen support, audio fixes, and updated DirectDraw handling. Authorization for the included game files is not established. |
| Original PC retail disc | Collectors or players seeking original physical media | The 1997 PC release and its Windows/DOS context are documented by DOSBoxWiki. Check each listing for authenticity, completeness, condition, and seller; owning a disc does not guarantee plug-and-play operation. |
Run the DOS edition through DOSBox
Install the game first
The DOSBox project’s instructions are to use the game’s Windows installer before launching its DOS version in DOSBox. Consult the Grand Theft Auto entry on DOSBoxWiki for the game-specific guidance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsExpect to troubleshoot rather than assume universal compatibility
DOSBox marks the game as supported, but the compatibility listing preserves historical user reports of crashes, sound trouble, and performance problems. These reports are not a guarantee of how the game will behave on a particular current PC, and the reviewed documentation does not establish one configuration that works for every machine. If it fails, use the DOSBox project’s game-specific page as the starting point rather than assuming the issue has a single universal fix.
#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.
Change controls in an existing GTA Classics Steam copy
Rockstar’s support article, last updated June 20, 2023, says to launch the game from its settings file in the installation folder when changing controls. Its example location is Steamsteamappscommongrand theft auto. On 64-bit Windows, Steam libraries may be under Program Files (x86). Open the article for Rockstar’s exact instructions: How to change settings in Grand Theft Auto (The Original). This is guidance for an existing legacy pack, not confirmation of current store availability.
What Ready2Play offers—and what it does not establish
PC Gamer’s February 8, 2026 report describes Ready2Play as a community Windows compatibility bundle with the base game and both expansions, language options, widescreen support, audio fixes, updated DirectDraw handling, and a portable launcher. Project creator LukeStorm 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 quote explains the creator’s aim; it is not a statement from Rockstar.
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
The same PC Gamer report says the creator had not personally tested Steam Deck or Linux, although users reported trying those platforms. Treat those as user reports, not controlled compatibility testing. Neither the report nor the reviewed Rockstar legal terms establish authorization for the game files bundled with Ready2Play or settle the legal status of any specific archival package. Use a copy you are entitled to use and check the rules that apply where you live.
Is the original GTA 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 GOG listing or proof that the game can currently be bought there: Grand Theft Auto GOG Dreamlist.
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.
