How does gta v connect to previous grand theft auto games?

The only verified information relates to Grand Theft Auto Online, an online multiplayer component of Grand Theft Auto V. It describes the game's release dates, platform availability, and the open‑world setting of San Andreas, including Los Santos. No details are given about narrative continuity, characters, or gameplay elements that connect GTA V to its predecessors such as GTA III, GTA IV, or GTA SA. Consequently, based solely on this evidence, there is no documented linkage between GTA V and earlier games in the series.