2001 | Grand Theft Auto III, Serious Sam: First Encounter
Note. From 1998–2001, GameSpot awarded Game of the Year for both consoles and PC.
Console:
Rating: 9.6 | Revision Date: October 24, 2001 | Writer: Jeff Gerstmann
“Rockstar and DMA Design have obviously spent some time making sure that Grand Craft Auto III is a quality product, and this quality is evident in everything from graphics to sound, plot points and the gameplay itself. Unlike previous games in the series, the game is extremely fun, whether you play it as intended or ditch the planned mission structure and go it alone to wreak havoc across the city. While the violent nature of the game will certainly put some people off, and children simply shouldn't be allowed near it, Grand Theft Auto III is simply an incredible experience that should not be missed by anyone mature enough to handle it.”
PC:
Rating: 8.9 | Revision Date: March 26, 2001 | Screenwriter: Greg Kasavin
“Serious Sam: First Meeting may not be suitable for players who prefer more thoughtful, more story-driven or more serious first-person games such as Thief: The Dark Project or Deus Ex; but even these players owe it to themselves to try the game. Ultimately, Serious Sam is a clear lesson in what elements are needed to make a game enjoyable. This is undoubtedly an exciting game from an undeniably talented development team.”
