Grand Theft Auto IV

(untitled review)

I'm only going to do a short reveiw to give people the gist of the game.

I must admit it's quite a slow start. I mean I know it's GTA and meeting people and such is important but it doesn't hurt to mix it up with some action, I've been playing through loads of missions and have only just had my first firefight.

I'll give credit where it is due however. The characters are very beliveable with voice actors that know what they're doing. The storyline thus far isn't much but I have a long way to go.

The graphics in terms of PS3/360 aren't going to blow you away but look at the size of the game and anything can be forgiven (see Oblivion).

The gameplay is still as open as ever, you can change clothes, go bowling, see a show and other things that I have yet to experience. The combat has been improved and the aiming doesn't annoy you so much this time round. Still you would have thought they could have done it like Saints Row. Free aim without having to hold a button down is the way to go.

The characters each have unique pesonalities and you will certainly meet some interesting people along with an array of comical criminals.

The driving is much more real. Each car has its own feel and you need to be careful. Go too fast and you can easily spin out of control when you try to break.

Overall it's great to return to the game, it has indeed been to long. Probably one of the only games that hasn't got worse as time goes on.

-7th May 2008 Update -

Well after completing what must be at least 80% of the story, unlocking all islands I am even more impressed than before. I haven't been to NY but if LC is a copy then its a brilliant job, you just seem to get caught up in the atmosphere of the game and even believe that the city is alive with all the dialogue and the new physics engine which adds a much more realistic feel rather than the cartoon vibe of the last three installments.

In the short time I've been playing the story has taken a couple of twists. One a bit stupid, the other genuinely amusing.

Right now I'm doing some jobs for a failing Mafia family. Thankfully the stereotypical Mafia image has been more or less removed and is replaced with some more original characters.

-8th May update-

Reached the final mission. Tough choice to make but I'm going with what seems right. Plus it's filled with sexy violence. More updates tomorrow on final thoughts...if i complete it.