What is the name of the first 3D game in the Grand Theft Auto series?

The first 3D game in the Grand Theft Auto series was Grand Theft Auto III.

Released in 2001, Grand Theft Auto III transformed the series from its earlier top-down 2D format into a fully navigable 3D open world. Players explored Liberty City from a third-person perspective, moving through its streets on foot or by vehicle while completing missions for criminal organisations.

The game was developed by DMA Design, the Scottish studio later renamed Rockstar North, and published by Rockstar Games. Its 3D world was built with Criterion Games’ RenderWare engine. Although Liberty City is fictional, its design is loosely based on New York City.

A common mix-up is confusing the first 3D title with Grand Theft Auto: Vice City or Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Those games followed Grand Theft Auto III in 2002 and 2004, respectively. Grand Theft Auto III is widely credited with popularising the modern 3D open-world crime game.