Grand Theft Auto IV

Next Gen level gaming, but on the Xbox 360

GTA IV puts most other games to shame with its production value, they are the very definition of production value in the gaming world. It is a game that you can spend countless hours playing even after you have finished the main story and every time you enter Liberty City you tend to discover something new that will give you a smile or a good chuckle. Rockstar's approach to creating games can be seen on a multitude of levels. They don't just give you some nice graphics. They also give you great voice acting, memorable characters, story missions, fun game dynamic, and additional in game content that makes the experience that more enjoyable. The production alone that goes into the in game radio stations is more in depth and entertaining then some other games.

Graphically, the amount of detail that is in the game is pretty amazing, from the night time running lights of the bridges that reflect off the water to the many detailed vehicles. It all creates a tangible real world experience. There are thousands of items that were created for the game that you do not even think twice about because they make the city more realistic. A perfect example would one of those fashion billboard advertising some type of jeans. If you pay attention at the skinny model and the the name of the company Anna Rex it is perfectly hysterical. Take a helicopter to one of the taller buildings with a landing pad and there is a ladder to go down to access a lower section of the building to shoot a pigeon. It is all very detailed and that level of detail is a bit staggering when you think about it. It makes the game much more fun to explore and play in.

The character models could have been better, but they are pretty good considering when the game came out. It's the game's only week point at this point, but the game makes up for that with some eccentric and memorable characters like juice head Brucie and your gambling cousin Roman. The voice actors do a fantastic job of bringing them to life. Throw in great little street one liners like " I broke my knee man " from comedian Bob Kelly is just very funny. You can even take in a comedy show in the city from either Kat Williams or Ricky Gervais. There is just a lot of content in this game, that it will be well worth the time you put into it.