Not as good as GTA 3 (Grand Theft Auto IV (PS3))

Member Name: slugfilm

Product:	Grand Theft Auto IV (PS3)
Date:	13/06/09 (6 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great graphics (better than Xbox)

Disadvantages: Irritating missions

I love th GTA franchise, but to be honest I was disappointed by this fourth instalment.

I have this game on 3 platforms (PS3, XBox and PC), and there are notable differences with each, but the bottom line remains the same: GTA IV focusses too heavily on cosmetic features, and is let down by tedious gameplay.

It isn't all bad: first and foremost, the graphics are sensational. The PS3 rendering engine is utilised perfectly with the resulting visuals bordering on photo realistic, especially at dusk when the sunset light filters on to the brick buildings. The soundtrack is also true to the "Rockstar" form with something for everyone, and the ability to change radio station whilst travelling has been retained, which is nice.

The PS3 controls are good too, with sensible dual-joystick navigation. However, PS3 load-times can be frustratingly long, and frame-rates can drop embarrassingly low when crossing between map areas,

Ultimately, I believe there was so much hype surrounding its release, I think many people forgot to question the gameplay. To my mind it has lost the free spirit of its predecessors and become more linear. Yes, you can still do side missions, attack passers by for no reason, and shoot more policemen than you can count. But the central mission is just irritating, and the 'hero' is a monosyllabic eastern-european cliche.

Summary: Style over substance