2004, GTA:San Andreas: utterly extravagant - sells over 12 million copies... We wait and wonder for the next Grand Theft Auto to come and amaze. Are they going to make a better sequel to the already-perfect PS2 game? The answer is: yes they did, and they did it moderately. After the announcement of another Liberty City-based GTA, I was enthralled, but slightly confused as to why they had chosen the same area as GTA III, but Rockstar redeemed them selves with absolute number one gameplay and graphical realism. This game has already been rumored to be owned by over 13 million gamers worldwide.

Although, the numerous bad things overpower the fans' dear wish of simply building up from the previous game, not starting from scratch. Things that were excluded from this game include: the gang system (such as employing 'homies' and taking over territory); robbery; car modification; many upgradeable weapons; upgradeable stats (eg. fat, muscle etc.); customisable appearance and attire… more »

2004, GTA:San Andreas: utterly extravagant - sells over 12 million copies... We wait and wonder for the next Grand Theft Auto to come and amaze. Are they going to make a better sequel to the already-perfect PS2 game? The answer is: yes they did, and they did it moderately. After the announcement of another Liberty City-based GTA, I was enthralled, but slightly confused as to why they had chosen the same area as GTA III, but Rockstar redeemed them selves with absolute number one gameplay and graphical realism. This game has already been rumored to be owned by over 13 million gamers worldwide.

Although, the numerous bad things overpower the fans' dear wish of simply building up from the previous game, not starting from scratch. Things that were excluded from this game include: the gang system (such as employing 'homies' and taking over territory); robbery; car modification; many upgradeable weapons; upgradeable stats (eg. fat, muscle etc.); customisable appearance and attire (including hair, tattoos, chains and watches); purchasable assets; casinos; miscellaneous shops (24/7 or bookies); gyms; schools (driving, boating, biking); bicycles and offline multiplayer. Moreover, the 9/11 scare makes planes unable to fly, disappointing much GTA fanatics. It may seem they have doomed the descent accessibilities and eliminated longevity, but fear not; it came at a hefty price.

There's the thing that glues G, T, and A together - the freedom; I'd have to emphasize that - though the map is smaller than San Andreas. The profound pun in 'Liberty City' gives away that freedom takes a huge role in this game. Exploring the whole map takes at least one hour or so. Of course, this is typically GTA-style gaming and is substantially sustained as the new RAGE engine gives exceptional gameplay.

Firstly, the missions are more expansive and adventurous than before. Furthermore, the alternative endings make the game seem tense and heartfelt as the 'cold' Russian immigrant ponders within his consequential choices. In addition, there are a large number of sub-missions for post-story fun - when cruising through the city you may see a random citizen, sharing his dilemmas aloud, allowing you to solve their problem. The terrain you drive, fly or shoot through is man-made ambiance that will fool you for New York City. Shadowing effects are perfect and the pedestrians raconteur amongst themselves about drug habits audibly. Vigilantes' AI is tactical enough to spoil your consistent roll of slaughtering the old San Andreas' six star SWAT teams. Then there's the blatant turnover from the previous games: the internet and the mobile access. These prosperities of GTA make a whole lot of long-lasting play - with downloading ringtones and arranging a date. This also makes endless outings with your close friends and fellow characters from the game; whether it's going for a drink or having a round of darts. But it's not for nothing; you will get a certain reward (each one gains beneficial help for missions) as you reach 80% respect of your friend.

Lastly, Rockstar took a big step in the highly anticipated online mode of GTA. Multiplayer holds several game types and up to sixteen players per game - with customisable settings and clothing for your character. This gives huge amount of playing time to the gamer and innovative games, including different objectives.

In conclusion to this immersive masterpiece, I would like to contribute my recommendation to buy this game. This is the epitomising purchase to start or continue your next-gen gaming. Though, in some ways this is a failure for the GTA franchise, but, significantly, this was a step forward in PS3 territory. Just forget the exclusions, cherish the inclusions.