Grand Theft Auto III
As a prequel to "Grand Theft Auto III", the game features both new and returning characters. The protagonist is an original character named Mike, who in his quest to avenge the supposed death of his partner, Vinnie, crosses paths with several prominent criminals that offer him assistance. These include explosives expert and firearms trader 8-Ball, Yardies leader King Courtney, and Yakuza co-leader Asuka Kasen, all previously featured in "Grand Theft Auto III", although their characters received significant changes in appearance and lifestyle to reflect who they were one year prior.