Why is this the first true sequel to GTA III? How do you make a multiplayer component that still feels as free and open as the single-player of GTA? And what's Rockstar's take on downloadable content? IGN spoke with VP of Creative, Dan Houser and Rockstar North Art Director Aaron Garbut to get the answers.

http://au.xbox360.ign.com/articles/863/863435p1.html

9 Page interview.

by time i read all that the game will be out.

That believe was just the second part. They have another one that was on 28 Mar I believe.

IT is the TRUE sequel because it does something different.
The games after GTA3 were just add ons or renditions of the same game.

GTA4 does something completely different and is a ground up game change.
They like to group their games by technology and gameplay.

I'm looking at GTA 4 as more of a one player sandbox type of game. I think saints row 2 is going to incorporate multiplayer in a bit more, but I hope I'm wrong

I am considering buying this game but having trouble with the whole bad guy role. I loved Oblivion and have not seen a sandbox game of that quality on the 360 since. I am considering waiting until Fallout 3 comes out but the GTA IV hype machine has me by the cahoonies right now.

well, if you have a problem with being a bad dude, this ain't the game for you plain and simple. Can I recommend Dark Sector? :p

I am considering buying this game but having trouble with the whole bad guy role.

I don't know if you've played GTA games before, but you are right -- they involve committing crimes and skirt proper morals.

Yet, most of the time the immoral activity are justifiable crimes. The killing missions usually involve very bad people. And the carjacking is on the silly side... pulling an innocent person out a vehicle saying "I need this" or something.

In the past it was possible to play a GTA game with reasonable morals intact, save an occasional unavoidable mission. Most people choose to "kill the prostitute after service to get the money back" :rolleyes: , but it might be possible to try to play it as much of a "good guy" as you can.

Just finished reading the enitire article-it was great, and I'm hyped as can be for this one!
First though, for me, certain parts of previous GTA games were too hard. Like some of the driving missions where there was a time limit involved. I'm not that good at racing games, and it's frustrating to see that sort of challenge in a mostly non-racer, especially in a big, real world environment with lots of pedestrians to avoid. Hopefully, they've taken that sort of thing out or made it easier.
For me, it really is hard to imagine an even larger, detailed, sandbox environment to play in. These machines are amazing! All of the developers brag about being able to do what they've always wanted to do and never had enough power to do it with, until now. Obviously, the devs at Rockstar always think big. I can't wait to see just how big they're imagination and attention to detail really is (now)!:D

yeah, it'll be huge and much more detailed than ever before. And the funny thing is I never got into san andreas at all (that was kind of a dead time for me in videogaming because of some major accidents to me). So I'll be jumping from Vice city to this. It's going to be shocking I'm sure.

i got to be honest, I watched the videos, there are more on the ps3 network, and I didn't find it looked that good at all. The character models/animations look like typical Rockstar junk. They've never been known for great graphics imho.

I am considering buying this game but having trouble with the whole bad guy role. I loved Oblivion and have not seen a sandbox game of that quality on the 360 since. I am considering waiting until Fallout 3 comes out but the GTA IV hype machine has me by the cahoonies right now.

I suspect Niko will be a more sympathetic main character than in previous GTAs. Just a hunch based on what I've read. In the past guys like Tommy Vercetti were just as horrible as the "bad guys."

I'm looking at GTA 4 as more of a one player sandbox type of game. I think saints row 2 is going to incorporate multiplayer in a bit more, but I hope I'm wrongFrom what I read in OXM, the GTA multiplayer is HOT HOT HOT (especially GTA race!). I can't wait! :D

Never been a big GTA fan but this new game looks more appealing and somewhat interesting so I might have to check it out , at least as a rental .

-- Jason

I hope the draw distance isn't like 10 feet. Saints Row and even other GTA games are horrible for throwing a tree or car in front of you with no time to react. Hopefully with the good graphics there's no tearing and it has a decent draw distance.

Great read! Thanks for the link.

i got to be honest, I watched the videos, there are more on the ps3 network, and I didn't find it looked that good at all. The character models/animations look like typical Rockstar junk. They've never been known for great graphics imho.

Go to the Rockstar Grand Theft Auto IV page and watch the 4 videos in order.
You can see the iterations of the builds and how beautiful it is in video 4.

http://www.rockstargames.com/IV/

That is some hype building right there. It'll be a typical rockstar game. Fun, but with a game that big and open they still had to make sacrifices in all areas.

That is some hype building right there. It'll be a typical rockstar game. Fun, but with a game that big and open they still had to make sacrifices in all areas.

??? Hype? I don't think so.
Halo was hype, this game will just be flat out great.

??? Hype? I don't think so.
Halo was hype, this game will just be flat out great.

This game is no different than Halo or any other hyped games. It will turn out being pretty good, but people expecting to be totally blown away probably wont be. Gears is still the only game I remember thinking "Holy Effin hell this is ridiculous!!!". Even COD4 (which is awesome) didnt blow me away like Gears did.

??? Hype? I don't think so.
Halo was hype, this game will just be flat out great.Don't sweat it. There is GTA hate all over the place, but when it's out and we're having a blast... all the haters will sulk over to their nearest GS and buy it too. They'll play it and pick it apart and act like they don't enjoy it.

This game brings out the fakest of people, I swear.

This game is no different than Halo or any other hyped games. It will turn out being pretty good, but people expecting to be totally blown away probably wont be. Gears is still the only game I remember thinking "Holy Effin hell this is ridiculous!!!". Even COD4 (which is awesome) didnt blow me away like Gears did.

Really? I don't think Gears is good at all! I am having to force myself to finish it - glad I didn't buy it - rental only.

Of course, I primarily play games on PC, but really....Gears just doesn't do it for me. Too linear. CoD4 was pretty linear, but it is a lot more beautiful.

Anyway, yeah. oh well. GTA4 for the win. :)

I've always loved the GTA games, particularly Vice City....I never got why people were upset with the violence in this game because its so absurdly cartoony and over the top.
I mean I wouldn't let my 10 year olds near it, but honestly folks......we're all adults here, and I think we are all capable of seperating reality from fantasy.

I mean even the people on the street rarely have a nice thing to say :) And you dont usually have to go around beating on innocents if you dont want to. Bad jokes, bad taste and bad stereotypes are what makes these games fun and laughable.

But...again....isn't this the ultimate example of why videogames exist? To let us do things we could not (or should not) do in real life? Bomb cities with our airplanes, drive the wrong way up the road at high speed, ride a bike against the flow of traffic, etc?

[QUOTE=DaverJ;13528524]I don't know if you've played GTA games before, but you are right -- they involve committing crimes and skirt proper morals.

Yet, most of the time the immoral activity are justifiable crimes. The killing missions usually involve very bad people. And the carjacking is on the silly side... pulling an innocent person out a vehicle saying "I need this" or something.
\QUOTE]


You got that from Dave Chappelle didnt you? HA HA HA great stuff!

GTA series has needed a serious upgrade for a while. We'll get it with this but I agree with the graphical comments looks like typical rockstar. But with all the stuff crammed into the game, it will probably be hard to fault the graphics. I too havent been into GTA since Vice City. I bought san andreas when my 1st kid was starting to parrot everything and we lived in a tiny apartment, so I never played more than an hour of it. Now with 2 360s ill have the option to play where the kids arent WOOHOO!

I will say I loved GTA: Vice City. Really I thought Rockstar hit that era on the head as far as the setting and the ambiance, etc. I never really got into San Andreas that much because I thought that Saints Row was more fun. I don't want to have to worry about working my "gangsta" out everyday and eating salads to stay fit. Gangstas don't eat salads!

That being said I think GTAIV is really going to revive the series. We are back in Liberty City, a new character. New engine, better textures, modeling, euphoria... I think it is going to be a smash hit no matter what but I think Rockstar has had extra time that they needed to really spit shine this.

Yup and no Salads!

I just hope there's no slow downs or framerate issues.

I just hope there's no slow downs or framerate issues.

I wouldn't hold my breath on that because of what I have read. There is so much going at once that I could see it chugging along every once in a while. However if the game delivers with controls and fun factor, I can look past the occasional framerate hiccup.

I don't really understand how developers claim that "being able to do anything, go anywhere" is the next generation experience. In my opinion, all that crap just gets in the way of the fun part(s) of the game. Is it interesting that one can eat a lot and get fat, or go and work out to shed pounds in Grand Theft Auto? I guess. Is that part of the game particularly fun? Not for me.

Similarly, the whole "certain things only happen at day or at night"... Does anyone feel that this makes the game more fun? More realistic, sure, but does it enhance the game experience? In all games which suffer from this "enhancement", one simply has to kill time or sleep in order to get to the correct time of day before one can actually do what one wanted to do in the first place. Blech.

Does anyone feel that this makes the game more fun? More realistic, sure, but does it enhance the game experience? In all games which suffer from this "enhancement", one simply has to kill time or sleep in order to get to the correct time of day before one can actually do what one wanted to do in the first place. Blech.

Time goes by so fast "in game" that I don't see it as an issue.
Many games have put these types of things in - ever play an RPG?
Even as early as the NES they had this type of stuff.

I don't really understand how developers claim that "being able to do anything, go anywhere" is the next generation experience. In my opinion, all that crap just gets in the way of the fun part(s) of the game. Is it interesting that one can eat a lot and get fat, or go and work out to shed pounds in Grand Theft Auto? I guess. Is that part of the game particularly fun? Not for me.

Similarly, the whole "certain things only happen at day or at night"... Does anyone feel that this makes the game more fun? More realistic, sure, but does it enhance the game experience? In all games which suffer from this "enhancement", one simply has to kill time or sleep in order to get to the correct time of day before one can actually do what one wanted to do in the first place. Blech.

It sounds like GTA games aren't for you.

For me, playing through Bully reminded me how much fun the GTA experience is. I like to wander around and explore... then notice a mission has opened up. So I decide when to take the mission, and then there's the possibility of random things happening on the way to, or during, the mission.

I also find it fun to unlock things as I go, and it's a nice bonus when the unlocks change the appearance of the character.

I don't really understand how developers claim that "being able to do anything, go anywhere" is the next generation experience. In my opinion, all that crap just gets in the way of the fun part(s) of the game. Is it interesting that one can eat a lot and get fat, or go and work out to shed pounds in Grand Theft Auto? I guess. Is that part of the game particularly fun? Not for me.

Similarly, the whole "certain things only happen at day or at night"... Does anyone feel that this makes the game more fun? More realistic, sure, but does it enhance the game experience? In all games which suffer from this "enhancement", one simply has to kill time or sleep in order to get to the correct time of day before one can actually do what one wanted to do in the first place. Blech.

It's said in the interview that certain RPG elements that were in San Andreas weren't that fun, and won't be in GTA IV.
I kind of agree with you about the realistic day/night cycle. Let's hope if we have to wait to do certain things in this game there'll be so much to do it won't get boring.

I just watched all of the trailers again, and the graphics seem to progress somewhat. Looks alot better than previous GTA games. But, I still can't imagine the actual game looking that way during gameplay, but I like the trailers. Here's to hoping the draw distance will be the largest ever! Not to mention being able to go into every building-probaly no on this, though. Still, can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm pumped!!!!!!!:p

It sounds like GTA games aren't for you.
(...)
I actually enjoy many of these sandbox games, so its not the game genre that I dislike. Rather, my complaint is about the amount of developer time and effort spent on bizarre details that don't make the game better. Many of these are done in the name of realism, but as we all know, a more realistic game isn't necessarily a better game.

For example, the Official Xbox Magazine preview of Grand Theft Auto IV reported that there were toll booths on the highway where one had to stop and pay tolls. If one didn't do so and simply blew through the toll booth, one attracted the attention of the police. All I can say in response to that... What? How exactly is that anything but irritating?

I actually enjoy many of these sandbox games, so its not the game genre that I dislike. Rather, my complaint is about the amount of developer time and effort spent on bizarre details that don't make the game better. Many of these are done in the name of realism, but as we all know, a more realistic game isn't necessarily a better game.

For example, the Official Xbox Magazine preview of Grand Theft Auto IV reported that there were toll booths on the highway where one had to stop and pay tolls. If one didn't do so and simply blew through the toll booth, one attracted the attention of the police. All I can say in response to that... What? How exactly is that anything but irritating?

Yep...GTA games aren't for you.

It's confirmed-that entire week off work! I'll probaly spend most of that time exploring the city, getting to know it very well. Ya know, picking out favorite hangouts (and hiding spots) in the bureaus and such! See you in Liberty City!!!!!!!:p

I actually enjoy many of these sandbox games, so its not the game genre that I dislike. Rather, my complaint is about the amount of developer time and effort spent on bizarre details that don't make the game better. Many of these are done in the name of realism, but as we all know, a more realistic game isn't necessarily a better game.

For example, the Official Xbox Magazine preview of Grand Theft Auto IV reported that there were toll booths on the highway where one had to stop and pay tolls. If one didn't do so and simply blew through the toll booth, one attracted the attention of the police. All I can say in response to that... What? How exactly is that anything but irritating?

Oh please....who doesn't love toll booths? Who doesn't get a little adrenaline rush of excitement when they see that "Stop Ahead - Pay Toll" sign on the highway. Then the excitement of trying to figure out which lanes are open,which are EZ-Pass only, and which are the cash lanes. Then trying not to wreck while you scramble around in your change holder. If that doesn't translate well to a videogame, I don't know what will. They should break that out into an XBL game...."Toll Payer X-TREME!" or something like that.

Actually, that's the first I've heard of the toll booth thing. My guess is that it's to accurately represent the NYC (errr...Liberty City) toll bridges/tunnels that actually exist. Still, I see your point about there being realism in games, and then going a bit overboard. I still predict GTAIV will be loads of fun, toll booths or not. As long as I can still beat up hookers, I'm happy.

Maybe there will be a toll booth willy. We can only hope. :)

For example, the Official Xbox Magazine preview of Grand Theft Auto IV reported that there were toll booths on the highway where one had to stop and pay tolls. If one didn't do so and simply blew through the toll booth, one attracted the attention of the police. All I can say in response to that... What? How exactly is that anything but irritating?

Are you aware that stealing cars and armed assault are also against the "rules" and will attract the attention of the police? When we all beat up prostitutes, is it really about the tiny mount of money they carry?

GTA is all about getting into trouble so you can get yourself back out of it. I for one welcome the option to take out my real commuting frustrations on in-game toll booths.

Slordak is right, toll booths don't make the game any more fun.

Are you aware that stealing cars and armed assault are also against the "rules" and will attract the attention of the police? When we all beat up prostitutes, is it really about the tiny mount of money they carry?


Right but cops don't get on your ass if you run a red light in the game.

Aye, that's my point. What's next, having to have your character stop at restrooms in order to relieve himself? It may be an integral part of The Sims, but it's not actually contributing to the game experience in a sandbox game.

Another thing I found odd in the aforementioned preview was the ability to use regular headlights or high beams... Again, a developer had to implement the code for this and an interface designer had to designate one of the buttons on the controller to toggle between the two while driving. Is it really necessary? It's not a survival horror game, so ideally the game wouldn't be so dark at night that one couldn't see properly without high beams...

Maybe you can flash your high beams when aproaching slow moving vehicles and they cars actually move over and get the F' out of your way? :D

Right but cops don't get on your ass if you run a red light in the game.
I may be misremembering, but I think in the original few (top down) games they DID get on your ass for most any traffic infraction. Coupled with the short field of view, I'm not sure I completed any missions in those games.

I may be misremembering, but I think in the original few (top down) games they DID get on your ass for most any traffic infraction. Coupled with the short field of view, I'm not sure I completed any missions in those games.

Only time I remember them going after you when you're in an auto or motocycle is if you ran people over, hit alot of autos or hit a cop car just once. I don't think running red lights or speeding made the cops chase you.

Maybe you can flash your high beams when aproaching slow moving vehicles and they cars actually move over and get the F' out of your way? :D

I'm kindof hoping they get distracted and/or blinded and run off the road, crash into a tree, burst into flames, then crawl out of the wreckage running around (with their hair on fire) waving their arms and screaming.

As for the toll booth thing, I wonder how "realistic" they'll make running it. In real life, they'd probably do nothing, or send one cop to pull me over, or mail me a ticket. My guess is in GTA they'll send about 10 police cars who will chase me like crazy maniacs, putting the public in danger and will all start shooting at me for no reason.

I'm kindof hoping they get distracted and/or blinded and run off the road, crash into a tree, burst into flames, then crawl out of the wreckage running around (with their hair on fire) waving their arms and screaming.

As for the toll booth thing, I wonder how "realistic" they'll make running it. In real life, they'd probably do nothing, or send one cop to pull me over, or mail me a ticket. My guess is in GTA they'll send about 10 police cars who will chase me like crazy maniacs, putting the public in danger and will all start shooting at me for no reason.

We have a few down here in Houston. The only time you have to worry about getting pulled over is if a cop is behind you when you run it. Other than that they just mail you a fee after you run 3. I've ran them so many times when I was younger. And my Uncle ran one with a cop behind him and got an $80 ticket for a toll that cost $1.75

I actually enjoy many of these sandbox games, so its not the game genre that I dislike. Rather, my complaint is about the amount of developer time and effort spent on bizarre details that don't make the game better. Many of these are done in the name of realism, but as we all know, a more realistic game isn't necessarily a better game.

For example, the Official Xbox Magazine preview of Grand Theft Auto IV reported that there were toll booths on the highway where one had to stop and pay tolls. If one didn't do so and simply blew through the toll booth, one attracted the attention of the police. All I can say in response to that... What? How exactly is that anything but irritating?

The first expansion will have a Smart Tag update. :D

Slordak is right, toll booths don't make the game any more fun. I see it as an aspect of simulation.

In Forza, I don't neccesarily enjoy when my car gets totalled and rendered useless on the 1st lap... but I understand that it's a part of the game and I accept it as a part of the experience. If the game was a free-for-all with no 'roadblocks' I wouldn't care for it. Those details are what immerse you into the world. Obviously there is a line between anything in any game where redundance and annoyance sets in, but I never felt that way with the eating. I rarely ate, now that I think of it. Only as needed. Same with the gym thing. Heck reloading isn't fun. Do you accept is as a part of life in FPS? Do you complain about it, or do you just enjoy the game because you love it?

What makes the game fun sometimes, are those irritating moments. Like you thought you were getting away from the cops, but the darn toll booth enabled them to catch up. You can't win em all....!

I see it as an aspect of simulation.

In Forza, I don't neccesarily enjoy when my car gets totalled and rendered useless on the 1st lap... but I understand that it's a part of the game and I accept it as a part of the experience. If the game was a free-for-all with no 'roadblocks' I wouldn't care for it. Those details are what immerse you into the world. Obviously there is a line between anything in any game where redundance and annoyance sets in, but I never felt that way with the eating. I rarely ate, now that I think of it. Only as needed. Same with the gym thing. Heck reloading isn't fun. Do you accept is as a part of life in FPS? Do you complain about it, or do you just enjoy the game because you love it?

What makes the game fun sometimes, are those irritating moments. Like you thought you were getting away from the cops, but the darn toll booth enabled them to catch up. You can't win em all....!

1. Not all games are simulations.
2. Forza happens to be one, GTA is not.
3. As you point out some things are just annoying. Some of us are just saying that toll booths are one of those things.

Read the MP writeup on IGN...I wasn't really too excited for this game originally, but that article has gotten my attention. Was on the fence about what version to get, but given that all my buddies have 360's it looks like I'm going with that.

1. Not all games are simulations.
2. Forza happens to be one, GTA is not.
3. As you point out some things are just annoying. Some of us are just saying that toll booths are one of those things.

GTA has a lot of aspects that are simulation based and according to what the developers have said during interviews they are getting closer and closer to simulating real life in this next installment.

Some things might be 'annoying' in a game but are there to challenge you. Kind of like having limited ammo supplies. Yeah it would be great to fire the best weapon all day long but having a limited supply is part of the gameplay. It makes it more challenging and thus you feel rewarded when you accomplish something.

Getting arrested by the cops is annoying but has always been a part of GTAs gameplay. It simulates real life consequences.

GTA has a lot of aspects that are simulation based and according to what the developers have said during interviews they are getting closer and closer to simulating real life in this next installment.

Some things might be 'annoying' in a game but are there to challenge you. Kind of like having limited ammo supplies. Yeah it would be great to fire the best weapon all day long but having a limited supply is part of the gameplay. It makes it more challenging and thus you feel rewarded when you accomplish something.

Getting arrested by the cops is annoying but has always been a part of GTAs gameplay. It simulates real life consequences.exactly. I wasn't saying the game is a direct sim, but in many ways it's trying to approach that.

The guy hasn't played the game yet, but he thinks tool booths are annoying. Sounds like someone is looking to nitpick without any basis.

It may be a nitpick, but it's more generally a concern about the direction in which these games are heading.

A video game should be an escape from real life, not a faithful recreation of it. Otherwise, I'd spend my time in the game feeding my dog, letting her in and out, getting the mail, putting the garbage out, making dinner, etc. etc. Again, a game like The Sims actually does task one with pretty much just leading an ordinary life, but something like Grand Theft Auto should discard all the mundane crap and go straight for the throat: The crime and violence for which the series is famed.

Some things might be 'annoying' in a game but are there to challenge you. Kind of like having limited ammo supplies. Yeah it would be great to fire the best weapon all day long but having a limited supply is part of the gameplay. It makes it more challenging and thus you feel rewarded when you accomplish something.

This is where design comes in, its up to the developers to pick and choose what is best in reality and what is not. A lot of people rag on San Andreas because yea, it did go too far with some things. But the level design at least in the LA-inspired city was actually really good - it was LA without all the boring stuff. So they got it right on that. Rockstar has generally been pretty good about this sort of thing - as I pointed out, cops don't start to chase you for running red lights. They also forget about everything you've done after you have been arrested/killed.

All Slordak was saying was that he doesn't see how toll booths make the game better. Now, he might be wrong. They might in fact make the game much better. But the way they were described in the magazine make it sound like an annoyance with no upside - its just a trap to get caught by the cops. Just like real life! Except toll booths suck!

It may be a nitpick, but it's more generally a concern about the direction in which these games are heading.

A video game should be an escape from real life, not a faithful recreation of it. Otherwise, I'd spend my time in the game feeding my dog, letting her in and out, getting the mail, putting the garbage out, making dinner, etc. etc. Again, a game like The Sims actually does task one with pretty much just leading an ordinary life, but something like Grand Theft Auto should discard all the mundane crap and go straight for the throat: The crime and violence for which the series is famed.What makes you think GTA games are becomming a "water and care for the plant" game? Just because they added a toll booth? That is 2% of the entire game.

You're bringing up a worse case scenario, however I doubt it's Rockstar's intention to go that route. I have a feeling they know what they're doing. Again, it sounds like you are looking for something to complain about... which is your right I guess. Games that are this great do get scrutinized....

Why should GTA do anything that you suggest? It's a top selling franchise. People enjoy the game. And GTA is more than just crime and violence. It's more well rounded than that, there are other things to do. If you want just crime and violence, there are other games that focus on it, and that's all you'll get.

i got to be honest, I watched the videos, there are more on the ps3 network, and I didn't find it looked that good at all. The character models/animations look like typical Rockstar junk. They've never been known for great graphics imho.

I saw a commercial for it last night, and it looked like crap.

I was expecting more, since all the still shots I saw on ign looked great.

I was actually thinking "I wonder if they made a ps2 version of this game".

I'm still getting it, but I'm not as excited.

I agree, the graphics aren't very persuasive. Hopefully that means the gameplay will be that much better!

I agree, the graphics aren't very persuasive. Hopefully that means the gameplay will be that much better!


!!!!?!?!??!! What videos are YOU guys talking about?
have you watched the 4 on the website in order?

The graphics are above and beyond most console games out there right now.

And nitpicking about tollbooths? Come on....sheesh.

I saw a commercial for it last night, and it looked like crap.

Did you see it on a high def station?

I've seen the ad several times on HD and it looks decently good. Otherwise, you can't judge anything about the game...especially from a commercial.

As far as the tollbooths go -- this is based in NYC/5 Burroughs which is full of tolls. Tolls are a very annoying and expensive part of living here. They are a real annoyance. If you don't understand that, then you don't need to comment on their presence in the game.

!!!!?!?!??!! What videos are YOU guys talking about?
have you watched the 4 on the website in order?

The graphics are above and beyond most console games out there right now.

And nitpicking about tollbooths? Come on....sheesh.Well it's not horrible, the lighting looks great, the atmosphere is nice... but I guess I did have slightly higher expectations. There were a few GTA style quirks that I noticed from the videos and print. Certainly can't make perfect judgement until you play the game, but a trained eye (I work on graphics all day as day job) can see certain things.

What matters to me most is car handling. I hope they tighten that up.

As far as the tollbooths go -- this is based in NYC/5 Burroughs which is full of tolls. Tolls are a very annoying and expensive part of living here. They are a real annoyance. If you don't understand that, then you don't need to comment on their presence in the game.

Right, but no game that allows one to kill literally thousands of people(including dozens if not hundreds of cops) is not trying to emulate reality. Rockstar has free reign to pick and choose what parts of reality they choose to follow. Including toll booths. Its just an odd inclusion, that's all.

The graphics look great to me too. No, they're not quite COD4 territory, but if you're expecting a free-world game, that has to render square miles of dense urban setting at-will, to have graphics that exactly equal a scripted shooter, that sends you down pre-defined paths through restrictive maps, you're just not being reasonable.

Rockstar has free reign to pick and choose what parts of reality they choose to follow. Including toll booths. Its just an odd inclusion, that's all.

I agree, but, they're (toll booths) everywhere in NY, right? So, it probaly is kind of hard to avoid including them when the focus is recreating the Big Apple. Still, for a game it seems odd.

The graphics look great to me too. No, they're not quite COD4 territory, but if you're expecting a free-world game, that has to render square miles of dense urban setting at-will, to have graphics that exactly equal a scripted shooter, that sends you down pre-defined paths through restrictive maps, you're just not being reasonable.
Actually, COD4-like is what I'm expecting-great low-res graphics, because of the draw distance like you said. But, I definitely don't expect great high-res detailed graphics such as in GOW. It kills me how people rave over the low-res greatness of COD4. I don't really get it-it's low-res! For GTA IV, I'll love the low-res beacuse of the greatness of the entire package, just as I love COD4!:)

Actually, COD4-like is what I'm expecting-great low-res graphics, because of the draw distance like you said. But, I definitely don't expect great high-res detailed graphics such as in GOW. It kills me how people rave over the low-res greatness of COD4. I don't really get it-it's low-res!

I don't think those words mean what you think they mean.
CoD4: TINY maps, great detail.
GoW: SUPER TINY MAPS, I thought it looked like crap. Even at 1080p, everything was too big. It was like Doom 3 on steroids. I time and time again fail to see what is so great about GoW. ugh.

You should see CoD4 on a PC. People that are playing it on a console are really missing out on something great.

Seeing the GTA4 videos (I downloaded it off of live last night to watch it on my tv and compare to pc) it looks great. They look even better on a PC monitor.

/edit: When it gets down to it - there will be a lot of people eating their hats when they are giggling with glee like a 12 year old school girl who wet themselves as they play GTA4 for HOURS ON END. Just wait and see....

I don't think those words mean what you think they mean.
CoD4: TINY maps, great detail.
GoW: SUPER TINY MAPS, I thought it looked like crap. Even at 1080p, everything was too big. It was like Doom 3 on steroids. I time and time again fail to see what is so great about GoW. ugh.

You should see CoD4 on a PC. People that are playing it on a console are really missing out on something great.

Seeing the GTA4 videos (I downloaded it off of live last night to watch it on my tv and compare to pc) it looks great. They look even better on a PC monitor.

/edit: When it gets down to it - there will be a lot of people eating their hats when they are giggling with glee like a 12 year old school girl who wet themselves as they play GTA4 for HOURS ON END. Just wait and see....

Huh?

whatever happened to gameplay. all people care about now is how does it look. they see an edge, tear or some other insignificant thing that's just being picky. But ya can't really blame people when that's what they are being pushed into.

GTA has always been a mindless, fun game. They could seriously never give it a number and keep various themes comin for me to enjoy it.

except for co-op, online really wasn't needed. Yet, I hope this is as fun as the hands-on made it seem.

whatever happened to gameplay. all people care about now is how does it look. they see an edge, tear or some other insignificant thing that's just being picky. But ya can't really blame people when that's what they are being pushed into.

GTA has always been a mindless, fun game. They could seriously never give it a number and keep various themes comin for me to enjoy it.

except for co-op, online really wasn't needed. Yet, I hope this is as fun as the hands-on made it seem.You mean to tell me you aren't interested in a 6 player 'no rules' vehicle/foot race from Coney Island to Time Square?

You mean to tell me you aren't interested in a 6 player 'no rules' vehicle/foot race from Coney Island to Time Square?


Honestly...Everyone in this thread is. Anyone who says differently is a liar.

I've got this preordered, can't wait.

I'm just concerned about my wife. She plays GTA:SA every night for about 2 hours pretty much. She is a GTA FIEND. I think GTAIV might just claim her for good.

On a thread I frequent, others say that gfx is an issue for them looking at the vids......I dunno, maybe because I have been around games more than most my whole life, I jsut don't see what others are seeing.....I think it looks great. I wish I could see it through their eyes......then again, maybe not - I am happy with the way I see it. :)

On a thread I frequent, others say that gfx is an issue for them looking at the vids......I dunno, maybe because I have been around games more than most my whole life, I jsut don't see what others are seeing.....I think it looks great. I wish I could see it through their eyes......then again, maybe not - I am happy with the way I see it. :)

I totally agree, I would never pass judgment on on a games visuals until I see them on my TV. I cannot for the life of me see how people can watch a streaming video online and complain about graphics. I put no stake in online trailers or screenshots. GTA has never had stellar visuals but it makes up for it in sheer size and ambiance, and I think GTA IV will deliver the same way.

The possibilities of this game....I'm in awe at Rockstar's doings:

1. Customizable characters in multiplayer, in a real world setting. I'm sure this has been done, I believe in Saint's Row, but glad Rockstar is inlcuding it as well.

2. Cross-city racing. To be won by any and all means possible, including helicopters. There's goin to be alot of players choosing the helicopter as their vehicle of choice, and there's going to be alot of players with rocket launchers bringing'em down. Some extreme racing, FUN!

3. Day/Night multiplayer option. Better use the high beams!

4. Free Mode! A GTA player's dream-being able to jack another player instead of a bot-total chaos!

5. No Limit/Core gameplay. In any mode, we can do....anything! In a race we're not restricted to the driver's seat, not even the same car. Being chased by cops! Let's split up, I'll grab another ride and shoot their tires from behind, or just blow'em up with the launcher! Bye-Bye!;)

Hurry up, 29th!!!!

^I can't wait either! I read yet another multiplayer preview this morning and I get more pumped everytime I read one :eek:

18.....

I have read a lot about the multiplayer and I am pumped, but I am confused about something--

Is the entire game/campaign able to be played co-op? I mean, can I start the game with a friend over Live and play the entire game with him? Like GoW?

I read about co-op, but they make it seem like there are only a few co-op missions--like in GRAW when you could just play co-op missions, but not through the single player campaign.

I have read a lot about the multiplayer and I am pumped, but I am confused about something--

Is the entire game/campaign able to be played co-op? I mean, can I start the game with a friend over Live and play the entire game with him? Like GoW?

I read about co-op, but they make it seem like there are only a few co-op missions--like in GRAW when you could just play co-op missions, but not through the single player campaign.

It's the GRAW route, with specific co-op missions. I'm a little disappointed that a campaign co-op will not be available (how hard would it be to just randomly choose one player to be Niko and give him a sidekick that stands silently in the background of cutscenes?). We have Saints Row 2 to look forward to for this, I guess, since it's been reported they will have this feature.

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/866/866057p1.html

The number of cooperative modes and competitive free-for-all modes are still a mystery. (So--there still could be a fully, single player co-op mode)


Team Mafiya Work (2-8 teams)
You're a member of a crew doing contract work for the mafiya -- including such plum gigs as escorting wanted men, picking up MacGuffins and stealing cars. Work as a team to complete contracts before the time period ends and get the rewards. You'll probably want to do your best to scupper the other crew's work as well. Each contract you complete gives your team cash, and the crew with the most cash at the end of the round wins.

Team Car Jack City (2-8 teams)
Cars spawn parked around the map and the teams must steal them and take them to a drop off point. The cash teams get for dropping off stolen vehicles depends on their condition -- teams get less cash the more damaged they are. The exception to this are special bonus cars, stuffed with drugs, which give a set amount of cash on delivery no matter how damaged they are. Your crew has to get hold of whatever vehicles the boss wants. Whichever crew makes the most money wins. Simple.

Turf War (2 teams)
A timed capture-the-base mode. There are a number of bases around the map that you have to take by standing on them for a short period of time. The more players that are on a base, the faster it can be captured. The more bases that your team owns, the faster your team's cash score increases. If the rival gang is on or near a base, you won't be able to take control of it -- so do what you can to try and... displace them. The team with the most cash at the end of the round wins.

Race (no teams)
Race to the finish through each checkpoint in order. If you take a wrong turn or mess up in some way, you can respawn your vehicle on the last checkpoint you passed. There is a large section of races for cars, boats, and helicopters -- you can choose laps and vehicle class/type. This mode has two sub-modes: Free Race and Cannonball Run. Free Race are point-to-point races. First one to reach the end point wins. Cannonball Run are races where you have to traverse several checkpoints any way you can.

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/866/866057p1.html

The number of cooperative modes and competitive free-for-all modes are still a mystery. (So--there still could be a fully, single player co-op mode)

Every preview I've seen that talks about online has specifically states that campaign co-op is out. Here's one example (http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/865/865088p1.html):

You won't play the story mode in multiplayer. In fact, no one gets to be Niko online.

OXM UK gives the game 10/10. Someone took some pictures of the review here:

http://www.gtagaming.com/forums/showthread.php?t=101930

Good read. Thanks! Packie looks like Vin Diesel, and Manny looks like Luke from 2 Live Crew. One thing that stands out with me from that article is the mention of realistic trips in a cab. I mean, being able to take a cab across town-literally, while staring at the back of the driver's head, sounds very cool. Just how deep is this game?! :)

Every preview I've seen that talks about online has specifically states that campaign co-op is out. Here's one example (http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/865/865088p1.html):


I believe in one of the developer interviews they said that they wanted control of the story for immersions-sake and that they had a very specific way they wanted the main story to play out, and that wouldn't be possible if you had friends popping in and out of your game.

Wow..... there are some idiots in this world:
http://www.fragland.net/news/Already-people-lining-up-for-GTA-IV/18914/

That's pretty sad.

I mean, I might be going to the midnight pre-order pickup, and I might get there 30 minutes early... but 2 weeks?

Jeez, get a life.

That's pretty sad.

I mean, I might be going to the midnight pre-order pickup, and I might get there 30 minutes early... but 2 weeks?

Jeez, get a life.

If only there was some kindof world wide network of sorts that retailers could sell their wares through, and you could somehow take a computer-like device and connect to this [finger quotes]virtual store[/finger quotes] and order these goods and have them delivered right to your home.

Of course this would also require some kindof means of delivering these goods, which would (unfortunately) require a huge fleet of planes, trucks, delivery vehicles and delivery personnel that could visit each and every house to deliver these goods. If this could be done...oh 6 days a week (with Sundays and holidays off), it would be great.

Unfortunately this kindof crazy scenario only exists in dreams and science fiction novels, and will probably never come to fruition. I better go buy a tent and start camping out in front of Bestest Buy.

Lining up for videogame/system launches is akin to the "how many college kids can fit into a VW Bug or Telephone Booth" activities of bygone ages :)

"Hey I was THERE at the Xbox Launch...and this one dude TOTALLY F'ed UP this OTHER dude, it was soooo awesome!". etc, etc.

Oh please....who doesn't love toll booths? Who doesn't get a little adrenaline rush of excitement when they see that "Stop Ahead - Pay Toll" sign on the highway. Then the excitement of trying to figure out which lanes are open,which are EZ-Pass only, and which are the cash lanes. Then trying not to wreck while you scramble around in your change holder. If that doesn't translate well to a videogame, I don't know what will. They should break that out into an XBL game...."Toll Payer X-TREME!" or something like that.

Actually, that's the first I've heard of the toll booth thing. My guess is that it's to accurately represent the NYC (errr...Liberty City) toll bridges/tunnels that actually exist. Still, I see your point about there being realism in games, and then going a bit overboard. I still predict GTAIV will be loads of fun, toll booths or not. As long as I can still beat up hookers, I'm happy.

What would be really is awesome is if traffic backed up on the Verrazano bridge, and you had to sit there for 2 hours or more honking your horn and holding the contents of your bladder to the best of your ability. Either that or get out of the car and run to your destination.

Sorry, it just got me thinking of some of the great experiences I've actually had on NY/NJ bridges.

I'm sure the game will be lots of fun.

I agree, those kids don't even look old enough to buy the game.

I agree, those kids don't even look old enough to buy the game.


That'd be great.

"Yes, you're first in line, but I'm going to need to see some ID since you were dumb enough to call the media, and they're here with cameras. You're sixteen? Sorry, maybe you can ask Jack Thompson to come buy the game for you, Sport."

That's pretty sad.

I mean, I might be going to the midnight pre-order pickup, and I might get there 30 minutes early... but 2 weeks?

Jeez, get a life.



Thats why I love NYC.. I'm pretty sure this game will be available all over the area the weekend before its release date. I'll probably try Chinatown first.

I got Halo3.. 4 days before the release date.

I got Madden08.. 5 days before the release date.

I got COD4.. 2 days before the release date.



No standing in line necessary. Most copies were $60 bucks.. no tax. I think they charged me $65 for Halo3 though..

Thats why I love NYC.. I'm pretty sure this game will be available all over the area the weekend before its release date. I'll probably try Chinatown first.

I got Halo3.. 4 days before the release date.

I got Madden08.. 5 days before the release date.

I got COD4.. 2 days before the release date.



No standing in line necessary. Most copies were $60 bucks.. no tax. I think they charged me $65 for Halo3 though..Where exactly in C-Town do you get these games? Cross streets? You can PM me if you want.

Do we know yet what day we can walk into a store and pick this up? Will it actually be on *gasp* the release date of April 29, or is that when it ships, and we won't be able to get our greasy mitts on the game disk until 2 PM on the 30th?

New Screenshots from the HUD


http://www.gtalegende.com/imageshost/1208281687screen3.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4352-gta-iv-gtanet-exclusive-screenshot.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4337-gta-iv-team-deathmatch.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4339-gta-iv-cops-n-crooks.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4340-gta-iv-team-mafiya-work.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4341-gta-iv-multiplayer.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4342-gta-iv-race.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4343-gta-iv-gta-race.jpg

HELI FIGHT!!!!!!!!!! Plus Heli to ground fight on innocent people :)
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4344-gta-iv-gta-race.jpg

Draw Distance on the first pic looks really good.

http://media.gtanet.com/images/4345-gta-iv-race.jpg
http://media.gtanet.com/images/4346-gta-iv-gta-race.jpg

Draw Distance on the first pic looks really good.

Looks great. I can't wait. Multiplayer with my buddies sold me on the 360 version, so I'm counting the days.

Radio stations revealed.

* WKTT - We Know The Truth (right wing talk radio)
* San Juan Sounds (latin)
* Integrity 2.0 (speech, hosted by Lazlow)
* Liberty City Hardcore (punk/hardcore)
* Liberty Rock Radio 97.8 (classic rock)
* The Vibe 98.8 (soul/R'n'B)
* PLR - Public Liberty Radio (call-in speech)
* The Classics 104.1 (old-skool hip-hop)
* Jazz Nation Radio 108.5 (jazz)
* Vladivostok FM (eastern european)
* Radio Broker (alt rock)
* Tuff Gong Radio (reggae/dub)
* Electro Choc (dance)
* Massive B Soundsystem 96.9 (dance hall)
* IF99 - International Funk (funk)
* The Beat 102.7 (contemporary hip-hop)
* K109 The Studio (disco)
* Fusion FM
* The Journey (ambient/chillout)

Liberty City Hardcore! ELBOWS UP! :D

Where exactly in C-Town do you get these games? Cross streets? You can PM me if you want.

I'd like to know too. PM me if you can.

Thanks.

Radio stations revealed.

* WKTT - We Know The Truth (right wing talk radio)
* San Juan Sounds (latin)
* Integrity 2.0 (speech, hosted by Lazlow)
* Liberty City Hardcore (punk/hardcore)
* Liberty Rock Radio 97.8 (classic rock)
* The Vibe 98.8 (soul/R'n'B)
* PLR - Public Liberty Radio (call-in speech)
* The Classics 104.1 (old-skool hip-hop)
* Jazz Nation Radio 108.5 (jazz)
* Vladivostok FM (eastern european)
* Radio Broker (alt rock)
* Tuff Gong Radio (reggae/dub)
* Electro Choc (dance)
* Massive B Soundsystem 96.9 (dance hall)
* IF99 - International Funk (funk)
* The Beat 102.7 (contemporary hip-hop)
* K109 The Studio (disco)
* Fusion FM
* The Journey (ambient/chillout)

No 80s station? Damn!

No 80s station? Damn!

Thats the beauty of playing your own custom tracks baby :D

As I read in EGM recently, some of your friends in the story will get upset if you don't call them or see them after a while, and actually might leave some angry text messages. Wow!

No 80s station? Damn!

Thats what I said :(

I'm guessing they'll roll 80's tunes into "Classic Rock" and the like....remember its 2008....Classic Rock includes the 80's FerShure!

what about 80's pop? Ill admit im a sucker for some "taaaake ooooon meeee"

Will the game include the option for custom tracks like the previous ones?

I haven't played a 360 game with this option yet. They really got away from this. I know you can play them from the music player, however, I personally don't like music playing the entire time, (ie: over dialog and everything else.)

I like the old way better. (Music, during menu's, loading, and music portions of the game.)

Anyone know if you can play them when you get in a vehicle, ala "CD" like Vice City's "tapes"?

"I haven't played a 360 game with this option yet."

Test Drive Unlimited did this really well. You could access your playlists from the in-car radio control menu.

Will the game include the option for custom tracks like the previous ones?

I haven't played a 360 game with this option yet. They really got away from this. I like the old way better. (Music, during menu's, loading, and music portions of the game.)

Now that's what I'm talking about....being able to have your own music from your designated playlist automatically que up during appropriate times in the game, instead of the programmed music. And you're right, they did seem to really go away from this.

I actually loved the radio from GTA. I liked the off the wall talk shows.

To the guys talking about the tolls...
im surprised you guys have just noticed this. Niko was going through a toll booth in Trailer 2 lol