A modder does what Rockstar doesn't want to do: make the original GTA playable

- February 9, 2026
- Updated: February 10, 2026 at 7:41 AM

Independent developer LukeStorm has created a package called GTA Ready2Play, which allows players to enjoy the classic Grand Theft Auto from 1997 on PCs and Steam Decks without installation hassles. This project, which started as a digital preservation effort, has been enthusiastically received by the gaming community, generating a wave of positive feedback that has led to continuous improvements in the game.
Compatible with modern systems
GTA Ready2Play includes the base game, all expansions, language options, support for widescreen displays, audio fixes, and a portable launcher designed to be intuitive. “My goal was to provide a way to play GTA with the best possible compatibility and without the complications of a classic installation,” says LukeStorm. This approach has allowed many players, including those using Linux and Steam Deck, to enjoy the game smoothly.
One of the highlights of Ready2Play is its ability to preserve the essence of the original game while enhancing its compatibility with modern systems. Despite technical challenges, such as the lack of sound in the menu and the need for patches to handle DirectDraw, LukeStorm has continuously worked to address these issues, highlighting collaboration with other modders. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and updates have arisen from community suggestions,” he adds.
Ready to play, this package has exceeded the expectations of many, being favorably compared to official remasters and other unofficial projects. As we approach the highly anticipated release of GTA 6, fans will appreciate the opportunity to relive nostalgia with GTA Ready2Play. LukeStorm concludes that, although the project is considered complete, future updates will depend on the relevance of stability and new features.
I’m a journalist with more than 30 years of experience in video games and technology. Although my specialty has always been video games, I’ve recently started enjoying exploring the intricacies of project-management tools like Asana, as well as automations with Make.com and N8N.
Latest from Jesús Bosque
- Stephen King’s Other Worlds Than These is set for 2026: the Peter Straub trilogy finally ends
- Netflix announces Steps: a Cinderella rewrite for 2026
- No Man’s Sky Cosmos update adds Comet Dust: where to find it and what it’s for
- Nintendo confirms Zelda 40th Anniversary Collection restock: UK updates will come via the Nintendo Store app
You may also like
NewsStephen King’s Other Worlds Than These is set for 2026: the Peter Straub trilogy finally ends
Read more
NewsNetflix announces Steps: a Cinderella rewrite for 2026
Read more
- News
No Man’s Sky Cosmos update adds Comet Dust: where to find it and what it’s for
Read more
NewsNintendo confirms Zelda 40th Anniversary Collection restock: UK updates will come via the Nintendo Store app
Read more
NewsControl Resonant gets a new story recap: Jesse Faden before launch
Read more
NewsCrimson Desert patch 2.02.00 is now live: fixes DLSS startup crashes
Read more