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GTA 3 Box Art: Original vs Revised Comparison Guide

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GTA 3 Box Art: Original vs Revised Comparison Guide

This guide helps you identify and compare the original and revised box art for Grand Theft Auto III (GTA 3). You’ll learn the key visual differences, how to find authentic images of each version, and how to avoid common misidentifications. No special tools are needed—just a web browser and attention to detail.

What You’ll Need

  • A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.)
  • Access to image search engines (Google Images, Bing Images)
  • Optional: access to game collecting forums or databases like MobyGames or Giant Bomb

Step-by-Step

  1. Understand the two versions. The original GTA 3 box art (released in 2001 for PlayStation 2) features a stylized collage of characters and scenes from the game, with a predominantly dark blue and black background. The revised box art, used for later reprints and other platforms (like Xbox and PC), often has a more orange or yellow tint, and sometimes a different arrangement of the same artwork. The most obvious difference is the color grading—original is cooler (blue/teal), revised is warmer (orange/gold).
  2. Search for the original box art. Go to Google Images or Bing Images and search for “GTA 3 original box art PS2”. Look for images that show the blue-toned cover. Check the source of the image—official Rockstar Games press assets or scans from actual PS2 cases are reliable. The original PS2 case has a distinctive “PS2” logo in the top left corner and a black “Rockstar Games” logo at the bottom.
  3. Search for the revised box art. Search for “GTA 3 revised box art” or “GTA 3 Greatest Hits box art”. The “Greatest Hits” re-release (with a red banner at the top) is a common revised version. Also search for “GTA 3 Xbox box art”—the Xbox version has a silver Xbox logo and often uses the revised color scheme. Compare the two images side by side.
  4. Compare the color palette. Place the two images next to each other. The original has a deep blue/teal sky and darker shadows. The revised version has a warmer, more golden/orange sky and brighter highlights. If you’re colorblind or unsure, use an image editor to sample the sky color (e.g., using the eyedropper tool in Paint or an online tool). The original’s sky RGB might be around (0, 50, 100), while the revised is around (200, 150, 50).
  5. Check the logos and text. The original PS2 box has the PS2 logo in the top-left, the Rockstar Games logo in the bottom-left, and a “PlayStation 2” banner at the top. The revised box (e.g., Xbox) has the Xbox logo in the top-left, and the Rockstar logo may be positioned differently. The “Grand Theft Auto III” title font is the same, but the background behind the title may differ in opacity.
  6. Look for the “Revised” markings. Some revised versions have a small “Revised” or “New” sticker or print on the front, but this is not universal. More commonly, the revised box art appears on re-releases like “Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy” (PS2, Xbox) or the 2010s digital re-releases.
  7. Use game databases for verification. Visit MobyGames (mobygames.com) and search for “Grand Theft Auto III”. Under the “Covers” section, you’ll see multiple scans of box art for different platforms and regions. Each entry lists the exact version. Look for the PS2 original and the Xbox/PC revised versions. This is the most reliable way to compare.
  8. Check the back of the box (if you have physical copies). The back of the original PS2 box has a specific layout with screenshots and a description. The revised back may have different screenshots or a different layout. If you’re comparing physical copies, flip them over and look for differences in the text layout, screenshot placement, and the copyright line (e.g., “© 2001 Rockstar Games” vs. “© 2001-2003”).

Common Mistakes

  • Confusing the “Greatest Hits” red banner with a revised box art. The red banner is a PlayStation marketing label, not a change to the artwork itself. The original artwork is still blue-toned under the banner.
  • Assuming all PS2 versions are original. Later PS2 reprints (like the “Platinum” range in Europe) may use the revised artwork. Always check the color tone.
  • Using fan-made or promotional images. Some websites have color-corrected or altered images. Stick to official scans or database images.
  • Ignoring regional differences. The PAL (European) version has a different rating logo (e.g., PEGI 18) that can obscure part of the artwork. Compare the same region to avoid confusion.

Tips

  • Use a side-by-side comparison tool like a split-screen browser or a simple image editor to overlay the two images.
  • Look at the character’s faces—in the original, the main character (Claude) has a more serious, darker expression; in the revised, his face is slightly brighter.
  • Search for “GTA 3 box art comparison” on YouTube—some collectors have made videos that highlight the differences.
  • If you’re buying a physical copy, ask the seller for a clear photo of the front cover. Check the color of the sky behind the title.
  • Bookmark the MobyGames page for GTA III—it’s a comprehensive resource.

Troubleshooting

  • Can’t find the original blue-toned image? Try searching for “GTA 3 PS2 cover scan” instead of “box art”. Scans are usually more accurate than photos.
  • Images look the same to you? Adjust your monitor’s color temperature or use a color picker tool to sample specific pixels. If you’re still unsure, compare the platform logos—the original PS2 logo is a distinct shape.
  • Websites show conflicting information? Cross-reference with MobyGames and the official Rockstar Games website (though their press section may have been updated). Trust database scans over random forum posts.
  • You have a physical copy but can’t tell which version it is? Check the bottom of the back cover for the copyright year and the disc’s serial number (e.g., SLUS-20062 for the original US PS2 release). A quick Google search of that serial will confirm the version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the original GTA 3 box art really blue?

Yes, the original PS2 release has a predominantly dark blue and teal color scheme, especially in the sky and shadows. The revised versions shift toward warmer orange and gold tones.

Why was the box art revised?

Rockstar likely revised the artwork to refresh the game’s look for re-releases on other platforms and to align with the color grading used in later GTA games. There’s no official statement, but it’s a common practice for reprints.

Which platforms have the revised box art?

The Xbox, PC (physical), and later PS2 reprints (like the “Platinum” range) typically use the revised artwork. The original PS2 release and the 2010s digital versions on PS3/PS4 use the original blue-toned art.

Does the revised box art affect the game’s value?

Yes, collectors often pay more for the original PS2 version with the blue-toned box art, especially if it’s in good condition. The revised versions are more common and less valuable.

Can I use the box art to identify a counterfeit copy?

Yes, but be cautious—counterfeiters often scan the original box art. Compare the print quality, the logo placement, and the back cover text. Counterfeits often have blurry text or incorrect colors.

Is there a difference in the game disc itself?

The disc art may also vary between versions, but the box art is the primary indicator. The disc serial number (e.g., SLUS-20062) is a more reliable way to verify authenticity.

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