But while previous iterations – particularly the franchise's previous peak, Vice City – had a slightly cartoon feel, GTA IV is an altogether darker affair. The game looks fabulous – especially when driving at night. Despite this graphically - and physically - improved depiction the carnage retains the lighter touch of previous incarnations. Characters fly through windscreens, blood is plentiful. Car chases and the inevitable pile up are viciously exhilarating. The driving – still the meat of the game – has been vastly improved, with a weightiness to the vehicles and a far better sensation of suspension. Despite some innovations such as the GPS and mobile – the latter used to organise missions and stay in touch – GTA IV feels reassuringly familiar, albeit more polished and ambitious than ever. It even has an emotional side – relationships are more important than ever – though traditionalists needn't worry. GTA IV is a fantastic achievement that mixes the traditional free-roaming play and character-driven story with the most realistic virtual environment ever created.
Luckily the game – mostly – lives up to the hype. Entertainment product of the year? Saviour of the universe? Such was the pre-release hype surrounding Grand Theft Auto IV that it was hard to tell.
