Review: Welcome To Paradise: GTA IV Is The Best Grand Theft Auto Ever! (Page 5 of 8)
Public Enemy Number One
"Good. Bad. I'm the guy with the gun."
One other thing I loved about GTA IV: considering the fact that it's been a target of political and media pundits who keep harping on the infamous "Hot Coffee" incident, it's understandable to think that Rockstar might tone down the adult themes in GTA IV. But thankfully, that didn't happen. This is a mature game, and a devilishly good one at that. It never makes concessions in the name of being politically correct, living up to its M-rating with gustothere's tons of swearing, violence and sexual innuendo. You can visit strip clubs and pick up prostitutesthere is no nudity from what I could tell, so don't get your hopes up.
As for the game's faults, there aren't many. As I mentioned, the standard GTA glitches like clipping still plague the game. And even though the plot line is simpler than previous GTA games, it still gets cluttered at times, with a glut of characters entering the scene; it can be tough to keep track of exactly why things are happening and to whom. Of course, this is offset by the fact that the game remains entertaining throughout and a new character introduction is usually a precursor to a set of missions that proves to be more fun that the last.
Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death
I could talk on endlessly about what makes GTA IV such an awesome game, but really, the only way to know is to experience it for yourself. It truly is the product of game design at its finest. In Liberty City, Rockstar has created a gritty yet lifelike atmosphere that is the perfect complement to the fun missions that drive the game. The graphics are on par with the best of this generation and the audio shines with a soundtrack that is arguably better than San Andreasmy personal favorite was the reggae station dedicated to Bob Marley. And I didn't even mention the massive multiplayer component which adds a ridiculous amount of value to what is already the must own game of 2008. (We'll have a complete breakdown on GamePro.com once GTA IV releases and the online servers reach critical mass.)
Any way you slice it, Niko Belic journey through Liberty City and his quest for answers to his shadowy past is an experience you just cannot afford to miss. Rockstar has created one hell of a vehicle that's driven by a compelling story, memorable characters and amazing gameplay. All you have to do is pick up the controller and enjoy the ride.
Spend enough time in Liberty City and you're sure to become a wanted figure. Carrying an AK-47 through the streets probably doesn't help.
Teamwork definitely pays off in the game's multiplayer mode. And when you're done blowing your enemy to smithereens, you can enjoy the sights together.
Eat your heart out Hollywood stuntmen: this daring maneuver makes us want to call up the fine people at Aflac. You know, in case we get hurt and miss work.