Grand Theft Auto III was the beginning of the series increasing popularity. Interestingly, some children guardians started a campaign against the game, which made the game even more known directly opposed to the intended effects. Grand Theft Auto was released in the United Kingdom in 1997, with publicist Max Clifford planting numerous facts about the violence in the game. 2 Use of Gore in Grand Theft Auto series.1.5.7 Chicago Transit Authority lawsuit.