Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Now Playable Directly in Web Browsers

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City can now be played directly through web browsers, bringing the beloved 2002 classic to modern devices without any downloads required.

The DOS Zone team has successfully ported the iconic open-world game to run entirely in browsers, making it accessible across multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux.

Released originally on PlayStation 2 in 2002 before expanding to Xbox and PC in 2003, Vice City quickly became a fan favorite for its vibrant 1980s Miami-inspired setting, memorable soundtrack, and distinctive tone. The game was critically acclaimed and introduced many players to adult-rated gaming for the first time.

The DOS Zone team brings considerable experience to this project, having previously made classics like Doom, Half-Life: Deathmatch, and the original Grand Theft Auto playable through browsers.

The browser version supports various screen resolutions, standard keyboard controls, and even controller compatibility. Testing on devices like the Xbox Ally X has shown the port works seamlessly across different hardware, though touchscreen controls on phones and tablets can feel somewhat awkward.

Players can save their progress locally, with optional cloud saves available through the js-dos platform for continuing sessions across multiple devices.

However, there's a catch. The demo restricts progression at the Ocean View Hotel checkpoint, the game's first major story milestone. To continue further, players must upload an original Vice City game file for verification. According to the DOS Zone team, this system uses checksums to confirm the uploaded files match legitimate retail assets, ensuring they don't distribute copyrighted game data themselves.

The legal implications remain murky. While DOS Zone claims they're not distributing original game assets and instead rely on user-supplied files, this approach doesn't necessarily guarantee protection from rights holders. Whether Rockstar Games or Take-Two Interactive will accept this publicly accessible browser version remains uncertain, but the technical accomplishment is undeniably impressive.

For players eager to experience Vice City through their browsers, the demo is currently available on the DOS Zone website.