'Grand Theft Auto VI' is almost here. What to know about the characters, music and billions at stake

“Grand Theft Auto” has never been much for following the rules.Nearly three decades after a video game built around stealing cars, outrunning police and embracing criminal mayhem first arrived, the franchise has survived controversy, transformed open-world gaming and become one of the biggest sellers in entertainment.Now, after a 13-year wait since its last main installment, “Grand Theft Auto VI” is preparing for another big score. The latest chapter arrives Nov. 19 with a return to the neon-soaked streets of Vice City with two protagonists.For longtime fans, “GTA VI” is a highly anticipated return. For everyone else, here’s what to know about the blockbuster video game, its characters and the enormous business riding on its release.Why is ‘Grand Theft Auto’ such a big deal?The franchise began in 1997 as a relatively simple, top-down game that allowed players to roam fictional cities, steal vehicles, evade police and commit crimes. The release of “Grand Theft Auto III” in 2001 helped r