llm/0be76e07-20b7-48f2-99da-6efdaeebf0e3/topic-9-37526a0c-7c73-42fb-a527-09629de27aaf-output.json
For some players, the clunky mechanics and "abysmal" shooting controls of early Grand Theft Auto titles acted as a significant barrier that prevented them from enjoying the series for years. While the janky top-down perspective of the original games initially alienated some fans, others found the combat in 3D entries like GTA III and Vice City so frustrating that they were unable to progress through the story. It wasn't until the release of GTA IV that the controls felt sufficiently polished, finally allowing these players to overcome their negative associations and fully appreciate the franchise’s evolution.