It’s a little past midnight here while i’m writing this, and i’m trying to get that i just beat the new Grand Theft Auto. I have waited a long time since i beat San Andreas for a new epic adventure in the GTAverse and IV was an interesting ride. The ending i took was what probably the ending most everyone took. A sad but interesting twist.

Living the life as Niko Bellic is something not to just take for grantent. While i was playing the story, some missions i really felt for Niko. (the missions towards the end with Darko and Dimitri were the best examples) Video game stories usually don’t draw me in and i’m stuck with an epic fail. Not so much with IV. Sure sometimes missions were repetitive, but its what the ultimate goal was in the end to see what is was.

1. Graphics

The graphics in GTAIV of course are amazing. Lighting effects, textures, physics. The game is really in tune with what you would expect a real world to include. One of the most noticeable is the car physics. Instead of pre-fabricated models, your car will dynamically damage to whatever you throw at it. The city itself is not what i expected when i was dreaming of what GTAIV would look like, but what has arrived is much better. Sure there is the standard low texture side stores and buildings, but overall the game is beautiful.

2. Sound

The audio in GTAIV is something that can really draw you into the game. If your hooked up to a 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system, the game shines. The sound effects, the music and the dialog are the best of the series and really draws you into the game. Even just walking around liberty city listening to the thriving metropolis can really make you think your walking in a real city.

3. Story

The story in GTAIV has definitely done some maturing from previous GTA titles. Your Niko Bellic, your cousin Roman has invited you to live with him in Liberty City with promises of money, fast cars and beautiful women. When you arrive you have nothing and have to work your way up. (that may be familiar from other GTA games) What GTAIV does differently is it makes you feel like your actually Niko by giving you some tough decisions that can affect gameplay later on in the game.

4. Gameplay

Controlling the game is much different now then ever. Something new to the series is the cover system. Think of COD4 and GOW mixed. Driving is also much more real feeling. You can no longer drive as fast as you want and then hit the e-brake to turn. You actually have to have skills now. Learning the controls can be challenging even for vets of the series due to the new physics engine, but for seasoned players just about 5 minutes in the game is enough to get back to your roots.

4. Rating

All in all, GTAIV has been everything i wanted and more. Sure there are some imperfections and some features that aren’t in the new game that i miss from the old games. (like car customization in San Andreas)

I give Grand Theft Auto IV  a 5 out of 5 with a BUY rating.

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