DirectX 8.1 error when launching GTA games on Mac

Last Updated: June 12, 2023

Question: Whenever I try to launch a Grand Theft Auto game on my Mac, an error appears: "Grand Theft Auto III requires at least DirectX version 8.1." DirectX is for Windows only, so how can I fix this?

Answer: If you are experiencing a DirectX error when trying to launch the Mac version of the GTA Trilogy games, try installing the Combo Update for your version of Mac OS, directly from Apple's website.  These updates ensure that all of the incremental updates between major OS versions are installed properly, and that any damaged or missing files are repaired.  For example, if your "About My Mac" screen may show your video card as HD 6xxx before applying the Combo Update.  After the update, the exact model of the graphics card should appear and the game should no longer show a DirectX error.