GTA RP phenomena — popular servers & streamers

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Grand Theft Auto V is the seventh main entry in the Grand Theft Auto series and the fifteenth installment overall. The game's open-world design was a revelation upon release, allowing players to roam San Andreas's open countryside and the fictional city of Los Santos, based on Los Angeles, freely. What made the experience even more fulfilling for fans was the availability of mods, wherein the game could be tweaked using special codes, which eventually gave rise to a whole community of role-players.

What is GTA RP?

  What makes RP servers so desirable is that players can lead normal lives or get involved in lives of crime and drama, and everything in between   

GTA RP (role-play) is a highly favored multiplayer modification for various Grand Theft Auto games, with GTA V being the most commonly used platform. In these special servers, players take on the guise of characters they create and engage in various role-playing scenarios within the game world.

These scenarios can range from being police officers to criminals to business owners to entirely fictional characters. However, users are expected to stay in character and adhere to the role-playing rules and guidelines.

GTA RP's goal is to create immersive and realistic role-playing experiences within the game's expansive open-world environment. The mod has gained significant popularity on numerous gaming platforms and streaming like Twitch, where players and streamers showcase their role-playing adventures to a broad audience. It's a creative and social way for gamers to enjoy the Grand Theft Auto series in a different light, focusing on storytelling and character development.

When did RP become popular?

  GTA RP can also use graphics mods to give the game a more realistic feel   

The roots of GTA RP can be traced back to the modding community of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. Modding, short for modification, involves altering or adding content to a game to create new experiences.

Players and developers in the modding community began creating custom multiplayer modifications for Grand Theft Auto games as early as the release of Grand Theft Auto III. These codes allowed gamers to connect to custom multiplayer servers and engage in various activities together.

However, it was with the release of Grand Theft Auto IV and later Grand Theft Auto V that the modding and role-playing aspects began to flourish. The availability of more advanced modding tools and the larger, more detailed open-world environments of these titles made them ideal for creating immersive role-playing experiences.

GTA RP started to gain significant traction around 2015-2016 when dedicated role-playing servers and mods, such as FiveM (a modification framework for GTA V), began to emerge. These servers offered more structured and rule-based role-playing experiences, attracting both players interested in role-playing and viewers on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

How come it has grown so much recently? Are fans really that invested in such experiences?

Over the past few years, GTA RP has grown exponentially for several reasons. One of the biggest factors to its meteoric rise was the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown era, where some of the most prominent names in the industry like buddha and xQc got hooked on to the server and played it daily for a lengthy stretch.

Some of the most important reasons for it remaining relevant are:

1. Streaming and content creation: Many popular streamers and content creators started playing GTA RP on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. This exposure introduced the concept to a wider audience, making it even more popular.
2. Diverse role-playing experiences: GTA RP servers host various role-playing experiences, from cops and robbers to paramedics, lawyers, and even supernatural creatures. This diversity attracts players with multiple interests.
3. Community development: A dedicated community of developers and server administrators has emerged, continually improving and expanding the features and experiences offered on GTA RP servers. This includes custom scripts, character creation tools, and realistic in-game systems.
4. Collaboration: Players often team up with each other, developing complex storylines, alliances, rivalries, and intricate character backgrounds. This collaborative storytelling aspect adds depth to the role-playing experience.
5. In-game economy: Many GTA RP servers have introduced in-game economies, allowing players to buy properties, run businesses, and engage in various legal and illegal activities, adding a layer of realism and progression to the gameplay.
6. Regular updates: The GTA RP community frequently updates and adapts to changes in the base game, ensuring that the role-playing experience remains engaging and relevant.
7. Community events: Events, competitions, and community-driven activities further engage players and viewers, creating a sense of community and excitement.

Overall, GTA RP has grown from a niche within the Grand Theft Auto modding community into a thriving subculture with a dedicated and passionate user base. Its appeal lies in the freedom it offers for creative storytelling, character development, and the opportunity for gamers to immerse themselves in a virtual world where they can live out their chosen roles.

What's Rockstar Games' approach to RP?

The developer of the Grand Theft Auto series has had a somewhat complex relationship with its RP servers and modifications. The authorities have taken different approaches and made various statements over the years. Here's an overview of how Rockstar Games has handled GTA RP servers:

1. Initial tolerance: In the early days of GTA RP, the company generally tolerated the existence of GTA RP servers as long as they didn't interfere with the core experience of the official GTA Online multiplayer mode. This approach allowed the GTA RP community to grow.
2. Cease and desist notices: At times, the publisher has issued cease and desist notices to developers and server administrators of certain GTA RP servers, especially if those servers were using copyrighted assets or monetizing their services in a way that violated Rockstar's terms of service. 
3. Official statements: The company has issued statements emphasizing the importance of not using copyrighted materials, respecting intellectual property rights, and adhering to the terms of service when running GTA RP servers. They have also cautioned against monetizing GTA RP servers.
4. Updates and patches: The video game giant has occasionally released updates and patches for the base game that unintentionally affected the functionality of certain GTA RP mods and servers. This has led to disruptions in the GTA RP community.
5. Policy changes: Over time, Rockstar Games has adjusted its policies and terms of service regarding mods and user-generated content, which has had implications for the GTA RP community. While some policy changes have been seen as restrictive, others have been seen as more permissive.

It's important to note that the American firm has generally allowed the existence of GTA RP servers as long as they operate within certain boundaries, such as not infringing on copyright, not monetizing their services, and not significantly impacting the official GTA Online experience. However, the relationship between Rockstar Games and the GTA RP community has been somewhat complex and subject to occasional changes in policy and enforcement.

The most recent update came in August when Rockstar took over Cfx.re, the group behind a few of GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2's most popular modding tools. With this development, many fans have been wondering if mods could potentially become available as DLCs in the upcoming chapters of the game, but nothing has been revealed so far.

Lastly, since the specifics of the New York City-based businesses’ stance on GTA RP servers can vary over time, server administrators and gamers often need to stay informed about the latest developments and adhere to its policies and guidelines to avoid potential legal issues or disruptions to their gameplay.

The most renowned GTA RP servers in major regions

  NoPixel remains the number one GTA RP server globally today   

Let's begin with North America and Europe, which contain several prominent and highly populated GTA RP servers known for their active role-playing communities. It's important to note that the demand for and fame of these servers can change over time, and new servers tend to pop up here and there as flavors of the month.

Here are some notable GTA RP servers in the NA region:

1. NoPixel: It is one of the most famous GTA RP servers globally and is primarily based in the NA region. It's known for its strict whitelisting process and high-quality role-playing experiences. NoPixel has attracted popular streamers and content creators, which has contributed to its widespread recognition.
2. The Family RP: The Family RP is another well-established server with a strong presence in the NA region. It offers a diverse range of role-playing opportunities and has a dedicated player base.
3. HighLife RP: HighLife RP is known for its active NA player community and a variety of role-playing scenarios, including law enforcement, criminal activities, and civilian life.
4. Squad RP: Squad RP is a popular GTA RP server that provides various role-playing experiences for North American players. It emphasizes a cooperative and teamwork-oriented approach to role-play.
5. TwitchRP: TwitchRP is an NA-based server that focuses on creating immersive and realistic role-playing experiences. It has a strong presence on platforms like Twitch, where many streamers showcase their GTA RP adventures.
6. Priority Zero Gaming: Priority Zero Gaming operates several RP servers, including the popular "HighLife RP" and "True RP," catering to the NA GTA RP community. These servers offer diverse role-playing opportunities and active player bases.

Here is a similar list for Europe:

1. The Family RP (EU Branch): The Family RP is another well-known server with an EU branch that offers various role-playing opportunities in a diverse and immersive world.
2. BlueBird RP: BlueBird RP is a popular European server known for its friendly community and wide range of role-playing experiences.
3. HighLife RP: HighLife RP is a GTA RP server that has attracted players from Europe and beyond, offering a mix of realistic and creative role-playing experiences.

How to join the GTA RP server?

Indeed, joining this highly in-demand server typically involves a selective application and whitelisting process. NoPixel is known for its strict entry requirements to ensure a high-quality role-playing experience. Here are the general steps you can follow to try and join it:

1. Check eligibility: Before you begin, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by NoPixel. These criteria may include age restrictions, previous RP experience, and a clean record on the server.
2. Visit the NoPixel website: Go to the official NoPixel website. The URL may vary, so you should search for the most current website through a search engine or GTA RP-related forums.
3. Read the rules: Thoroughly read and understand the server rules and guidelines posted on the NoPixel website. Adherence to these rules is crucial throughout your time on the server.
4. Create an account: If required, create an account on the NoPixel website. Some servers require registration before applying.
5. Submit an application: NoPixel often has an application form on its website. Fill out the application form with accurate and detailed information. Be prepared to provide information about your role-playing experience, your desired character, and your commitment to adhering to the server's rules.
6. Wait for a response: After submitting your application, you'll need to wait for a response from NoPixel's administrators. This process can take some time, as they receive many applications.
7. Interview or audition: If your application is successful, you may be contacted for an interview or audition. This is an opportunity for the administrators to get to know you better and assess your suitability for the server.
8. Whitelisting: If you pass the interview or audition, you may be whitelisted on the server. Whitelisting grants you access to the NoPixel server, and you'll receive instructions on how to connect to it.
9. Follow server rules: Once you're on the server, it's essential to follow the rules, immerse yourself in role-play, and contribute positively to the NoPixel community. Failure to adhere to the rules can result in warnings, temporary suspensions, or permanent bans.

Keep in mind that the application and acceptance process for NoPixel can be highly competitive due to its popularity and limited slots. Meeting the server's requirements, demonstrating your commitment to role-play, and having a unique and well-developed character concept can improve your chances of being accepted.

Since the application process and requirements can change over time, visit the official NoPixel website or consult with the GTA RP community from time to time for the most up-to-date information on how to join the server.

What about the most followed GTA RP streamers?

  Most watched games on Twitch between January and August 2023   

It has to be reiterated that fans love GTA RP because they get to see their favorite content creators in action, that too in an unrestrictive environment where they can be maxed-out versions of themselves. What this has done is that it has managed to keep GTA V relevant even a decade after its release while also making stars out of influencers, with the more prominent names able to churn out more unique content and attract more eyeballs to their channels.

A look at the most watched GTA RP channels from January to August 2023

In fact, despite all the hype and demands for a successor and the release of so many pretenders since 2013, the fifth main installment in the Grand Theft Auto franchise has remained one of the most popular games on platforms like Twitch, with RP mods perhaps offering the biggest helping hand. On the purple platform, it has been the second-most watched title this year, only behind League of Legends.

Even when looking back over a longer period, it has been near or at the top of the pile, finishing second, first, third, and third in 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. Such longevity for games is unheard of, and being on the podium so regularly is even rarer and a testament to Rockstar Games and the fans for their continuous work in evolving and keeping it interesting as per the current era.

  Top three streamers in terms of followers of the biggest GTA RP server, NoPixel   

Getting into a few more dynamics, GTA V hit a record 1.1M Peak Viewers on May 03, 2021, incidentally during the lockdown phase. It came at the height of the RP craze when the likes of xQc, Loud Coringa, and Buddha were all playing it almost non-stop, churning out quality content every minute for fans and creating somewhat of a myth that continues to be discussed today.

Some broadcasters who made names for themselves thanks to creating content on this server were buddha, PaulinhoLOKObr, AnthonyZ, and Zerkaa. Such was their indelible link to the mod that they remain some of the biggest names to stream the game and regularly pop up on the most-watched GTA streamers list.

What about similar games and servers?

  xQc remains one of the few names to shine in the GTA and Minecraft RP worlds   

Yes, of course, GTA V is not the only game to benefit from the use of the availability of mods, with Minecraft being another great example of how a game has remained fresh. The sandbox title, itself more than a decade old, enjoys one of the most passionate fanbases in the industry, and a major reason for that is the usage of different mods and the availability of servers that house popular streaming names.

In fact, Minecraft has made household names out of the likes of Dream, ElSpreen, tommyinnit, Quackity, Tubbo, Ranboo, westcol, and GeorgeNotFound. Many of these names have collaborated to build the Dream SMP server, perhaps the most popular one in the game today. Other famous mods include QSMP, Purple Prison, Hypixel, and Mineplex.

We can also include the likes of Rust, Roblox (to an extent), and Red Dead Redemption 2 to the list of games that have RP servers which have helped them increase their popularity. Rust was another title that benefitted immensely during the lockdown era, with streamers queueing up to play it, either collaboratively or on their own. Such was its popularity that it shot up to 11th on the list of most-watched games in 2021, and while those halcyon days are gone, it still retains a loyal user base, including content creators.

Role-play servers may have started off with an at-best sketchy backstory, but they have immensely helped games evolve and bring in more eyeballs over the years. GTA V is the most successful example of this trend, and the hope is that if and when there is a GTA VI, Rockstar Games will heed its fanbase's requests and retain the ability to mod and change the game using mods that fit within the legal framework of what they deem passable.

Most watched Spanish GTA RP channels (Jan-Aug 2023)

Most watched NA GTA RP channels (Jan-Aug 2023)

Most watched European GTA RP channels (Jan-Aug 2023)