Personal Computer

A Personal Computer (or PC) can refer to a desktop or laptop computer. Specifically, it is a computer used for personal tasks such as browsing the Internet and gaming, rather than business or server functions. A PC could also refer to a microcomputer whose price, size, and capabilities make it suitable for personal usage.

Personal computers are normally operated by one user at a time to perform such general purpose tasks as word processing, internet browsing, e-mail and other digital messaging, multimedia playback, video game play, computer programming, etc. The user of a modern personal computer may have significant knowledge of the operating environment and application programs, but is not necessarily interested in programming nor even able to write programs for the computer. Therefore, most software written primarily for personal computers tends to be designed with simplicity of use, or "user-friendliness" in mind.

Since the terms "personal computer" and "PC" have been introduced to vernacular language, their meanings and scope have changed somewhat. The first generations of personal microcomputers were usually sold as kits or merely instructions, and required a somewhat skilled person to assemble and operate them. These were usually called microcomputers, but personal computer was also used. Later generations were sometimes interchangeably called by the names "home computer" and "personal computer." By the mid-1980s, "home computer" was becoming a less common label in favor of "personal computer." These computers were pre-assembled and required little to no technical knowledge to operate. In today's common usage, personal computer and PC usually indicate an IBM PC compatible. Because of this association, some manufacturers of personal computers that are not IBM PCs avoid explicitly using the terms to describe their products.

A PC is one "platform" for gaming, alongside others ranging from the Nintendo DS to the Xbox 360/PS3. The PC platform is the most versatile, with the user easily able to download and install modifications (mods). Most Grand Theft Auto mods are for the PC version, and although some exist for the console versions, they are significantly harder to implement, and often require installing a "mod chip" which may damage the console and void the warranty.

Grand Theft Auto games released on the PC

Grand Theft Auto games to be released on the PC

Grand Theft Auto IV (2008)