Status:
- No manual included
- Play Tested
Grand Theft Auto IV - Platinum (PS3) Review
Released: 2008 (Platinum Edition: Later Release)
Developer: Rockstar North
Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC
Grand Theft Auto IV was a massive step forward for the series, bringing a darker, more realistic tone and impressive open-world mechanics. While it lacked some of the crazier features of previous GTA games, it delivered a gripping story, detailed world, and deep gameplay. The Platinum edition simply refers to a budget re-release of the game, with the same content as the original.
What Works
Engaging Story with a Gritty Tone
- You play as Niko Bellic, an Eastern European immigrant trying to escape his past and make a new life in Liberty City.
- A more serious, grounded story compared to previous GTA games, full of betrayal, crime, and moral choices.
Detailed & Lifelike Open World
- Liberty City feels alive, with dense streets, diverse NPC interactions, and realistic physics.
- Dynamic AI, police responses, and random events make the city immersive.
Great Gameplay & Combat System
- Cover-based shooting system was a big improvement over previous GTA games.
- Driving physics feel more weighty and realistic, making chases thrilling.
- Tons of side activities like bowling, darts, internet browsing, and dating add depth.
Memorable Characters & Dialogue
- Roman Bellic (Nikos cousin) is hilarious, and the game is full of quirky, interesting characters.
- The dialogue and voice acting are top-tier, as expected from Rockstar.
Solid Multiplayer Mode (For Its Time)
- 16-player online modes, including races, team shootouts, and free roam chaos.
What Doesnt Work
Driving Physics Can Feel Clunky
- Cars feel heavy and floaty, which some players love, but others find frustrating.
No Planes or Crazy Fun Features
- Unlike GTA: San Andreas, there are no planes, jetpacks, or wild customization options.
- The gritty realism takes away some of the over-the-top fun that older GTA games had.
Repetitive Missions at Times
- Many missions follow a similar structure (drive somewhere, shoot enemies, escape police).
No Checkpoints in Missions
- Dying during a long mission means restarting from the beginning, which can be frustrating.
Final Verdict
🟢 Final Score: 9/10
Grand Theft Auto IV is an ambitious, mature, and highly detailed open-world experience, with one of the best stories in the series. While it lacks some of the crazier elements of earlier GTA games, its deep characters, immersive world, and engaging gameplay make it a must-play.
Pros:
Deep, emotional story with strong characters
Liberty City is a detailed, immersive world
Improved cover-based shooting and physics
Fun side activities and great multiplayer
Cons:
Driving physics can feel awkward
Lacks planes and over-the-top elements from older GTA games
No mid-mission checkpoints
Recommendation: If you enjoy story-driven open-world games, GTA IV is a must-play. However, if you prefer over-the-top chaos, you may like GTA V or San Andreas more.
