Rockstar have released the first video for Grand Theft Auto Online, a dynamic and persistent online world for 16 players based initially off the geography and mechanics of Grand Theft Auto V, but designed to continue to expand and evolve after its launch with new content created by Rockstar Games and the Grand Theft Auto community.

"In Grand Theft Auto Online, players have the freedom to explore alone or with friends, work cooperatively to complete missions, band together to participate in activities and ambient events, or compete in traditional game modes with the entire community, all with the personality and refined mechanics of Grand Theft Auto V.

Players can invest in their character through customizing their appearance, improving their stats, owning customized vehicles, purchasing personal property, and taking part in missions, jobs and activities to earn reputation and cash to open up new opportunities to rise through the criminal ranks. The world of Grand Theft Auto Online will constantly grow and change as new content is added, creating the first ever persistent and dynamic Grand Theft Auto game world."

GTA Online is due to launch on October 1st and comes free with every retail copy of Grand Theft Auto V.