User Score
7.5 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1694 Ratings

User score distribution:

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  1. IssaJ.
    May 1, 2008
    10
    The best. That's all I can say.
  2. SimonB.
    May 1, 2008
    10
    A truly amazing experience,very addictive
  3. AndrDT.
    May 1, 2008
    10
    This game is awesome. This is truly a must have game if you own a PS3. Its totally different from their predecessors, and its a good thing too.
  4. LukeR.
    May 1, 2008
    10
    Absolutely a masterpiece, this pulled me from WoW! and that's an accomplishment.
  5. B.T.R.
    May 2, 2008
    9
    I think a 100 score is a bit over-zealous and an effort to push the GTA series into the limelight. Bottom line, all of this has been done before, just not in such a large, living city such as Liberty City. The storyline so far (3.5 hours in) is great. There's great action, the AI is right on, the sound is great, but ultimately it's nothing all that ground-breaking to warrant a 100 score. For crying out loud they don't even give Zelda for Wii a 100 and it broke all kinds of ground. Expand
  6. MikeG
    May 20, 2008
    10
    Quit your whining! This game is awesome.
  7. JamesT
    May 2, 2008
    10
    Fantastic game! Just go and buy it! You won't regret it!
  8. C.M.
    May 2, 2008
    10
    The brutalest game ever.
  9. MattS.
    May 23, 2008
    9
    Great game, only a few things that bug me, one being the ragdoll effect when you fly out of a car, but everything else is awesome, online is fun, though it can be laggy.
  10. LimanimaLima
    May 26, 2008
    9
    I give 8.8 to this game. The environment is awsome it makes me think: "wow, how did they manage to build an entire city with so much details?". But the game loses in gameplay. It's way too repetitive. "Go from point A to point B, get your mission, go from point B to point C, kill dude". I'ev played 40% of the game and I'm already tired of it.
  11. RobertV.
    May 2, 2008
    9
    I was extremely excited about this game, only to be slightly disappointed. I've played about two hours up till now and I like it, but I can't say I love it as much as VC or SA. Maybe I've just played GTA too much and gotten bored of it...anyways, graphics are a 10. I am not playing in HD right now and it still looks great; models in general look fantastic, damage looks great, environment also looks good. Gameplay so far is an 8; like I said, the concept is great, I might've just played the series too much and it seems a bit repetitive. Later on, I'll probably start getting into it more as the story gets more intense and more gameplay is explained; i.e. how the in-game internet works, how to access database in cop cars, etc. For everybody else, please pick this up as it is a fantastic game! Well worth the money. Expand
  12. JackT.
    May 2, 2008
    10
    Truly worthy of the 10. This game defines the generation and what it is possible to achieve with current technology. Enormous draw distances, euphoria physics / AI, lighting, HDR.. etc. The works. At lets not forget that the gameplay is second to none Amazing!
  13. MatB.
    May 3, 2008
    10
    Not perfect, but better than any other game I've ever played.
  14. BillyM.
    May 30, 2008
    10
    I think that GTA4 will definitely be long remembered and is an instant classic. It is incredible and no 2 times playing it are the same.It's way better than GTA San Andreas, graphics, engine, sound, characters, story, excellent game must-have. Also, multiplayer is incredible, no 2 times are the same and more than a few multiplayer modes which all suit any type of player.
  15. SebastianK.
    May 3, 2008
    10
    Hold on ocarina of time, here comes gta4!! the best game ever.
  16. SebasS.
    May 4, 2008
    10
    This is the best game ever.
  17. LoganM.
    May 4, 2008
    10
    The best GTA ever great graphics,best storyline,very fun multiplayer.
  18. MarkH.
    May 5, 2008
    9
    Very good, slight graphical glitches at times, nothing serious, but still considerably better than the 360 version (which I owned before taking it abck and swapping it).
  19. SixS.
    May 5, 2008
    10
    Brilliant! One of the best games of all time. I can't wait for the PC version.
  20. AlanA.
    May 6, 2008
    10
    One of the best games ever made....EVER.
  21. JeffP.
    May 6, 2008
    10
    Everything is just incredible, a true sense of realism is brought out within the game.
  22. SC.
    May 6, 2008
    9
    GTA IV is a good game, sure, but who gives it 100% or 10 out of 10, really? Any game, for that matter. I'll give it a 9, yeah, but it's far from perfect. There are numerous stability issues and the aiming and shooting sequences (in particular) control like a dog.
  23. js
    May 9, 2008
    10
    Gameplay graphics everything speaks perfection
  24. DavidT.
    Jun 27, 2008
    10
    I'm very impressed with GTA IV. It seems RockStar has a good formula for making a Grand Theft Auto game and instead of changing it completely they tweak it and add more features. Now I imagine when you go from engine to engine some elements are lost, like physics. The car physics are difficult at first, but once you get the hang of it they become easy. Map is huge, lots of missions, good characters and voice actors. I don't have a whole lot to complain about. For those who have been playing GTA from the beginning, you will find this addition to the series polished nicely. Expand
  25. ArashR.
    Jul 25, 2008
    10
    This game had a great story and gameplay, but after it is done there really isn't much to do. You could do the side missions but lets face it they are there just to make getting 100% harder. This game got a 10 because of the online play. It has some issues on the ps3 version but when it works it is one of the best online games ever made.
  26. Anthony
    Aug 1, 2008
    10
    An incredible game, I don't see how you can bash the graphics, they are not great, but have the series graphics always been great, other than that incredible, a must buy.
  27. PranilT
    Aug 22, 2008
    10
    The best GTA game ever withe great graphics & more than expectedly good gameplay.
  28. AndyE.
    Aug 30, 2008
    10
    At no point did I become bored with this game. The entire engine is fantastic with every single thing thought into it. If you want a chain link fence out of the way, or run down a park bench, or chuck a grenade under a car, the engine is prepared for any instance you can think of. The story is a bit questionable and the framerate was very confusing to me given the sixth-gen graphics instead of seventh-gen graphics, but every other aspect blew me away on this game. I did spend most of the time on multiplayer as that was quite a great inclusion. This was my first GTA game ever, and I'm glad I picked it up. I don't care who you are, if you are 17 or older, this game is beyond manditory. Expand
  29. Kjell-andersM.
    Aug 9, 2008
    10
    This game is the most realistic game i have ever played or seen before :D
  30. ENOUGH!!
    Jan 16, 2009
    10
    It's GTA with shiny new graphics, hilarious ragdoll physics (Crash your car at sixty miles per hour on the free way towards oncoming traffic; priceless), and a gripping new storyline filled with the usual GTA nutjobs and ingenious voice acting. That, and the radio stations are as sarcastic and satirical as ever. Go buy it; it has tons of mileage for your money.
  31. TaylorP.
    Feb 4, 2009
    9
    This game is awesome. The storyline was amazing. Over 50 hours of side missions and has pretty much anything in it. They should have added a few more things though like paying rent or actually using a bank. But who cares about that, games are ment to be fun. So everyone stop complaining if its not realistic enough. All games are ment to be fun!!!
  32. NikeshPatel
    Jul 18, 2009
    9
    The main story is fun but the side missions are too hard to start. But overall this game will give you about 40+ hours of gameplay (if you messed around the world). Niko actually has depth which the protagonist of san andreas didn't have. Overall a game that is better than the other gtas.
  33. GaryG.
    Jul 2, 2009
    10
    It would appear that the other reviewers have given this game a 0 because they are more interested in silly games like saints row 2 were you throw dog poo. any way this game is incredible. there are so many little details and liberty city is packed full of suprises. I waited for along time for this game and i was not dissapointed at all. i bought this game on the release day and i still go back to it over a year later. awsome brilliant and massive.. Expand
  34. HeathB.
    Aug 14, 2009
    9
    Not as jawdropping as I expected but still a 10 because the story reminds me of my favorite crime movies like Heat. The sheer scope of Liberty City is most welcome as it clearly tells you that indeed, the whole city is a one living and breathing giant playground of anarchy and carnage. Siund is a bit of a problem sometimes as it's hard to hear dialogue in cutscenes. The new combat system sets an example that future Gears of War-like games should follow as well as for the action genre itself. Wish the hand to hand combat levels with Niko's badass standard though. Expand
  35. AnonymousMC
    Aug 25, 2009
    10
    I don't know why people have to bash on this game. Can't you guys accept a game which deserves the high scores it gets? Totally loved this game. Bought a PS3 just for this game and I have to say I'm not disappointed. Repetetive? No. What do you think Rockstar should do? They can't come up with new types of crime all of a sudden! Every mission is awesome. When the credits started rolling after the last mission I got goosebumps. Such an epic game. And the multiplayer is great too, it will keep me busy for a while. Expand
  36. WilliamS
    Jan 2, 2010
    10
    I love this game and can't find a fault, a great storyline, good missions although people may find it repetitive i think every mission is unique in its own way. Trophy system works well to keep people playing.
  37. JoHunter
    Oct 21, 2008
    9
    I love the visuals and the sound effects. I followed and played every 3-D GTA game ever made, Gta3 blew my mind, Vice city blew Gta 3 away and San andreas changed gaming forever. GTA 4 is a great game but the DRIVING MECHANICS ARE REALLY FRUSTRATING, its too realistic. The cars, trucks and bikes spin outta control 2 easy it reminds me of that old British game "The Getaway" when it comes to driving. the missions get a little monotonous, now don't get me wrong I'll probably never get tired of chasing people down and smoking them, but if in almost every mission u have to engage in a high speed chase and kill your target, they could made the vehicles a little easier to maneuver that's my only beef. The targeting still isn't perfect but it got a lot better
    as far as sandbox style games GO Gta4 is 2nd none. love the story and the feel. it'll be a while before another title tops this one (maybe Godfather 2 ? we'll see) Great Game worth playin all day.
    Expand
  38. JamesK.
    Apr 27, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever
  39. TomppaW.
    Apr 28, 2008
    9
    One of the best GTA games to date, if not the best. Also definitely the best videogame of this generation!
  40. FrankS.
    Apr 29, 2008
    9
    Great game with only a few minor flaws.
  41. TonyG.
    Apr 29, 2008
    10
    Greatest game I've ever played its better than Halo 3. PERIOD.
  42. MattB
    Apr 30, 2008
    9
    Rampant anti-aliasing issues. Someone, I have no idea who, said the PS3 edition suffered less aliasing than the Xbox360 edition. I'd have to play XB edition, because if it's true the game must be borderline unplayable. The HDR levels need severe tweaking, it runs somewhere between "difficult" and "impossible" to navigate dark areas of the city during real life daylight hours. The screen is simply pitch black, even with the brightness turned up all the way. Gritty? Yes. More realisitic? Yes. Practical? No. The blur effects of anything beyond about 200' from the character make navigation at high speed on the roads a nightmare. It looks like you're playing the entire game [sans cut scenes] through a pair of coke-bottle-bottomed glasses. I would like to note on the positive side that they did a great job with the cut scenes and pulling you into the roll and life of Nikko. The faces during the cut scenes are very emotive and help convey the story line as well as the "humanity" of the characters involved masterfully. Oh yeah, you have to be *RIGHT ON TOP OF THE TV* to read *ANYTHING* that is displayed on your *TINY* dark-grey text on dark-grey background phone. Prepare to become myopic if you play this game for long periods of time. Whoever let that one slide, also: fired. FPS ranging from 15-30, usually in the low 20s I'd guess... The game needed another several months of polishing. Expand
  43. ThomasH.
    Apr 30, 2008
    9
    Nice game with a lot of opportunities. but, but, but.... it got framrate drops, and the graphics are not amazing. Then 10/10 can´t e reached, but 9/10 is also a high rating.
  44. AlexB.
    May 11, 2008
    10
    The plot was interesting I thought, i cared more about this character than the other GTA characters. The graphics are not the same as you would find shooter with a linear path that you are supposed to follow, but that is to be expected. The game really shines when you get into the relationships with other characters and the feeling that the world is real. It's much more immersive than previous GTAs, even the people on the street. The way they react to situations is much more realistic, stopping getting out of their car, going around you if you stopped as a few examples. The vehicle controls, to me at least, are great. They represent the control of each individual car and what it's capable of. Overall, this was probably one of the best games i've purchased for my PS3 and will remain in my system for a very long time. The replay value is enormous, with different dialogue even for each mission if you replay it. Expand
  45. AlexM.
    May 1, 2008
    9
    Good game, but not perfect. This game is the GTA3 for the next gen console, and i cant wait for the next one to improve on this already great formula. San Andreas was a fantastic game, and i believe that in some aspects, is better than GTA4. In some ways, this game feels like a step backwards when compared to previous titles in the same series. Overall, a still great game.
  46. Herbuin
    May 12, 2008
    10
    Superb graphics, twisted stories, fun environments, control easy to use. A must have, the best GTA of the series. Very addictive.
  47. DanG-ham
    May 12, 2008
    10
    best game I have ever played graphics are awesome story line is great. I have this game and I strongly recommend it.
  48. JasonH.
    May 15, 2008
    10
    Sure, another 10, who'd have thunk it. After recently completing the SP story and spending a good chunk of time in the MP, I truly think this game deserves it. Let's face it, it isn't without flaws, but at this stage in the game GTA4 is THE MOST IMPORTANT game right now. Halo3, Bioshock, CoD4... they've all had they're day in the sun, but its time for the old kings to recognize the new ruler. There will always be haters out there, citing everything from "more of the same" to "the cars are too hard to drive". I think gamers indeed wanted more of the same, thats why they bought a sequel (you didn't see the "IV" on the box?) and if you have problems taking corners at 75 mph, i suggest you try it in real life and get back to me. Good game, great buy and its worth ten times its weight in entertainment value. Expand
  49. JitoM.
    May 2, 2008
    10
    Your going to need "Hot Coffee" because this game will keep you sleep deprived for weeks. 10 outta 10 breda !!!!
  50. DanielH.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    It has been the best game I have played on and it looks really good on blue ray disc. Then a normal crappy Xbox disc.
  51. ArthurP.
    May 21, 2008
    9
    Not a revolution, but rather a delivered promise of a refined formula that reveals detail like no other game has. GTA 4 is not without its flaws, but none of them are able to take the spotlight away from the experience as a whole. Special attention goes to the context of the narrative and gameplay that have sobered up since the series' latest title.
  52. TylerG.
    May 2, 2008
    10
    Astounding in every respect, this is the complete and total GTA experience with online muiliplayer. There isn't a game out there and that can match the sheer quality (or quantity) that GTA IV offers. For anyone who likes games or hates Jack Thompson, buy this game immediately.
  53. ChrisW.
    May 24, 2008
    10
    Too good to be true. though it may be missing a few things that were crammed into San Andreas, it gives you the feeling that you are so much apart of its environment. Bloody awesome.
  54. JakeM.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    A great all around game, but I was a little disappointed with the lack of ability to enter most buildings.
  55. JC
    May 26, 2008
    10
    Amazing game. Missing a few little things such as bycicles and stuff, but its still worth the 10.
  56. NateD.
    May 3, 2008
    9
    Fun, good graphics, great soundtrack, I love how much is going on around you, Like the city is alive.
  57. KitF.
    May 4, 2008
    9
    It's nice to see how the series has finally matured a bit. The camera could be a little higher whilst driving, there could be a few more weapons, and their's a few load issues, otherwise, I have yet to find fault with the game. I'm not a Grand Theft Auto fan in the least, but this story held me captivated, and the online multiplayer kept me having fun. Definitely a must-buy for anyone who liked the previous- For that matter, I'd recommend this to anyone who liked the Sopranos as well. Expand
  58. NeinW.
    May 4, 2008
    10
    Been a gamer since the Atari days.. this is by far the best, most complete video game I've ever played.
  59. FranciscoM.
    May 8, 2008
    10
    It's a wonderful game with a very good story.
  60. ThomasD.
    May 8, 2008
    10
    The First Great Game To Come Out For The PS3... Its About TIme.
  61. BenT.
    Jun 16, 2008
    10
    You know the saying you can't please everybody. Rockstar must be wondering what they did wrong, because nearly all the reviews on the internet I've read have missed the point. The gameplay is leaps ahead of SA, the graphics are good, not perfect, but good enough that you find yourself immersed in the city. Most of all, the detail in the game makes it worthy of a 10, and the missions can be truly inventive on some occasions allowing you, in some, to approach it in different ways. Expand
  62. ChrisO.
    Jun 21, 2008
    9
    It doesn't seem like that big of a leap over the other GTAs, but why reinvent the wheel?
  63. AlanK.
    Jun 26, 2008
    9
    I would give this game 9.5 This game is great after completing it once and then getting halfway through it again (MGS4 had to be played) I will go back and complete this again, this time around altering my decisions where you let people live or die. Totally makes you want to go back and either kill them again or let them live. I am glad they got rid of the stuff like the gym and the swimming, who wants to spend 90 minutes of gameplaying time to build up your underwater swimming abilities. Graphically it is great, the audio once again is a great choice. Driving the cars takes some time getting used to it but it has been made more realistic. The fighting felt to me a bit loose but who buys this game to get into fistfights ? Once again Rockstar have proven themselves to be at the top of the pile. Already looking forward to the next installment wherever or whenever it may be set. Expand
  64. JoeS.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    This game is so realistic and life-like. Great work
  65. SimonV.
    Jul 23, 2008
    10
    There were too many expectations , and the game is as we can see the best game ever for PS3 and Xbox360 with fantastic graphics, great story, great sound. We may even say that this is the most original game of the GTA series and that completely turns around this series. Is a different game comparing with San Andreas, and inovates in very things, so this game is exacly waht the fans were expecting. Expand
  66. JonathanL.
    Jul 7, 2008
    9
    A gripping experience and the most immersive of the series, but lacks long-term replay value. One of the highest value games on the market with a terrific storyline which puts you in the seat of a gangster in a movie-like experience. The removal of many options that were introduced in previous games of the series holds this game back, and the sketchy multi-player hurts the experience in the long run. A marvelous game with only a short lifespan. Expand
  67. schlittmehr
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    Solid game, definately the deepest and most entertaining of all the gta series, the increase in graphics to the ps3 level understandably helps, but the gameplay is very good overall, and several of the new features are awesome.
  68. thebossman
    Sep 19, 2008
    10
    Probably the best free-roaming game ever made.
  69. ThorL
    Dec 22, 2009
    9
    Brilliant story, great characters, good looks and did I mention the story? Well, it's not perfect though(who is?) the multi player is a down, the physics some times goes on vacation, and the police could be trying a bit harder(which criminal that have murdered 150 cops would get away with it?). besides those downs though, GTA IV dose deliver and for those of us(at least me) who played GTA 3, will remember many of the spots around Liberty City. I personally liked the story because it was very involving, and dose have some nice touches that makes one think that the story could be real(though we all know it isn't, right?). One thing I do miss from the previous GTAs are the ability to fly, yes I know LC is small, but seriously, even GTA 3 had the Dodo! on the pc version graphics is also a little down, the shadows are all dithered, which is annoying and it looks bad, and there is a bit of over-use of shaders here and there. I'd say this game is high up on some of the best games of all times, but it haves it issues, but they don't ruin the game, they are just a tiny bit annoying Expand
  70. DavidA
    Oct 22, 2009
    9
    A fantastic game that delivers on every level. The amount of replay value is amazing. This game should belong in any PS3 ownerls library. A true must own.
  71. DanteM.
    Feb 22, 2009
    10
    I think this is probably the best Playstation game ever. It has amazing graphics, a verry good gameplay, nice controlls. You can just keep playing this game forever, and you will never get tired off it. The blur for far away building is a bit disturbing, but that really is the only thing that isn't perfect in this game.
  72. DesmondL
    Jun 18, 2009
    10
    One most best game I ever played. This game is already defeat Zelda N64 after the released and most highest rank ever (expect game rankings). But sadly, this game is full of controversy and i bit disappointing.
  73. TheMan
    Jun 26, 2009
    10
    The best game game of all time, missions are a blast, the story is extremely confounding and the characters bring a strong sense of nostalgia towards the gaming Industry. It really is hard to believe that gta is over 10 years old and this game sets the gold standard for any competitor willing to follow.
  74. EoinF.
    Jan 19, 2010
    10
    Gripping Story, fantastic realistic gameplay and a living environment really does make GTA IV the best free world game out there. Now to those people who say its bad because it's not like the old GTAs, I'm sorry but we're not all 10 year olds who want boom boom kapowy games, we want a game that, in my opinion, IS the video game equivelant of The Godfather, it's just pure video game excellence. Expand
  75. LiamH.
    Nov 21, 2008
    9
    If I was able to give a percentage for this game, it would be around 92%. Not wanting to repeat common threads of debate i.e. most overrate/best game of all time? I want to submit some points of observation and possible debate: - Firstly, many reviewers (edge in particular) talk about 10 being a summation of a game being of revolutionary status. They highlight how it is the basis from which other titles of its genre or type are compared, or a point at which a new direction or scope of possibility is achieived. Personally, GTA III is when this mark was reached, not GTA IV. Secondly- Whilst GTA IV offers a world of pure magical realism, geniune brilliance and relentless sophistication in its scope you cannot deny it's limitations. In terms of gameplay, the repetitive mission structure makes it difficult to sit down and do more than 4- 5 missions at any one time. The missions themselves generally fit the same basic structure. Go to point A, drive to point B and kill someone, drive to point C, collect cash. The side missions are not incorporated but instead become a hindrence and general thumbs down annoyance (sorry packie!) after the first carbaret or game of pool. A game bound by a mission based story development like GTA IV must account for it as an essential part of it's overall rating. It should not be dismissed simply because of the vastness of the world we are given to experience. For example, Oblivion achieves this is a much better way for me. GTA IV is without question a phenomenal game and I praise Rockstar for such an ambitious and daring achievement. But I hope it doesn't win game of the year. That prise has to go to Little Big Planet. Cheers now. Expand
  76. MichaelGuccione
    Oct 16, 2008
    9
    When I first started playing this game, I was overwhelmed by how great the gameplay was and the story line. I was hooked. The graphics are in no way the best in a game, but destructions, explosions, and bullet holes make this game that much more intense. What makes this game truly shine is the story. The voice acting is some of the best I have ever heard in a game, ever. The online mode, although not the best, is great addition to an already great game. After I beat the game and had played the online mode numerous times, I felt as if there was something missing in this game compared to San Andreas. It was the lack of variety in guns, aircraft, and things to do. It kind of felt a little repetitive and it seemed like there wasn't that much to do after you realize the story is over. For that reason alone, I gave this game a 9. I still consider this to be a great game, one of the best of this generation, but I still thing it was a little overrated. Expand
  77. RhienS.
    Dec 5, 2008
    10
    An amazing game, and despite all theese users going against the grain, its a must buy! It utilises the power of all the next gen consoles and looks fantastic graphic wise. The gameplay it self is like being kissed by an angel, and in that i mean there is nothing bad about it (other than a few frame rate issues). The gameplay mechanics are amazing, it has a fantastic storyline and is by far hands down the best game i have played on a next gen console. I would suggest you listen to the critics, and go out and buy this game. Expand
  78. AndyP.
    Oct 31, 2008
    9
    The engine and physics are great. Banter between the characters is fun, even changing the next time you play the mission. The story is strong and if you fail to laugh at some part of this game then I
  79. MattA.
    Apr 29, 2008
    9
    Overall, the game is just about the closest thing I've yet experienced to a 'perfectly' virtual reality. I have some minor gripes with some of the controls, but they seem to be a staple of the way Rockstar produces the GTA games. In all, this is totally a win for the video game fan; the game ups the ante of what can and should be expected for adults on their next-gen consoles.
  80. MichaelF.
    May 12, 2008
    9
    9.89 Score from me. One of the best games I've ever played. However, some issues with npc AI especially when in vehicles could be more precise (ie cars too often rear ending each other at stop lights and intersections.) Overall amazing story graphics and gameplay.
  81. JonahN.
    May 13, 2008
    10
    Excellent game. LC is a spot on representation of NYC. The streets are alive and bustling with people. It is very immersing. The gameplay works much better than in past GTAs, as targeting now isn't a hassle. Love the storyline. Great game, worth every penny.
  82. DeonM.
    Jun 23, 2008
    9
    This is a great game and will keep everybody busy for quite a while, but with the ps3`s power and potential they could've done a lot more. A lot of the mini games and customization that we had in San Andreas was also taken away which was a letdown. Brilliant nonetheless
  83. ChristianV
    Dec 23, 2009
    10
    This game is incredible. Possibly the best video game I have ever played. Can't wait for GTA 5
  84. RyanL
    Dec 28, 2009
    10
    This is truly a masterpiece, Grand Theft Auto IV surpasses any of its predecessors such as GTA: San Andreas. The graphics are amazing, it really takes you into the game. The campaign is very long and will definitely keep you hooked from start to finish! Multiplayer is ok, theres no real problems its just that I dont want to be playing countless hours to get to the last level. Its all about the singleplayer here. One thing is though that there are not enough guns! I loved San Andreas because of your weapon arsenal! Heatseeking rocket launchers, harriers, they had it all! I really wish that exclusive DLC for the xbox (eg Ballad of Gay Tony) came to the PS3 because it really looks like San Andreas mixed with GTA IV!! Expand
  85. Jun 25, 2012
    9
    Spectacular game. One of my favorite games in this generation. The amount of freedom in this game is simply astounding...you can literally go anywhere and do anything you can think of. Almost every game has some major limitation that prevents you from doing something, but this game has almost no limitation. You can drive cars, drive motorcycles, drive boats, drive helicopters, jump you car off of ramps, run around on foot, shoot whatever you want, and blow up whatever you want...the fact that you can do all of these things in the same game is very impressive. No other game has so much going on in it, and yet Rockstar made all of these things fun and executed them well. Some games struggle to get one of these things right, yet Rockstar does them all well. Not to mention the city is interesting and full of variety, which makes it a great playground to drive around in...I love that the city has a lot of hills and uneven areas - this allows you to gleefully make your car spin out, jump, roll over, or whatever else you want to do with it...and the awesome car physics give your car a great sense of weight, which makes it so satisfying to watch your car soar through the air and come slamming down as the body wobbles from the impact. The car physics alone make this game worth playing. I actually think GTA's driving feels better and actual racing games. After experiencing this game, I can't see how any other game can be placed in the same league - the sheer amount of stuff crammed into this game just can't be matched. Expand
  86. Aug 15, 2010
    9
    Grand Theft Auto 4 is a great game however, it does have its flaws.For example, missions can get repetitive, the online mode does not have a well paced leveling system, and it also makes it very easy for people to spawn camp, although this mainly only happens when the spawn distance is set to near i think that the developers should have made the game so that it can sense when this may be happening and spawn you somewhere else automatically. So to wrap it all up very little is wrong with this game and only has minor problems. Expand
  87. Oct 28, 2010
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this game right from the day i got it and to this day i still enjoy playing it. The story is very well written and does its best to give players the freedom of choice from time to time. The multi player is good it has a lot of variety to it which makes it very enjoyable for players
  88. Sep 2, 2010
    10
    Quite simply, the most engrossing Sandbox game available for consoles. It may have lost the hilarity of San Andreas and the style of Vice City, but as a story, it shoves both of the previous two games down a hill. Moving, emotional, funny, sad and with a bitter/sweet ending, this game is definately worth the 25+ hours you can sink into it.
  89. Sep 27, 2010
    10
    Ahh, GTA IV....my personal favorite on my small library of games. I think the storyline is surprisingly interesting, with the plot twists and everything. I love the vast expanses of the newly rendered Liberty City. It looks much like NYC, so they have that down pat.
  90. Oct 15, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Grand Theft Auto Iv this game is very realistic but not that realistic i have got this and have played it twice nearly completed it for a second time but after a bit you do get bored of as you`v played it for long and you know everywhere but something still amaze me such as the quality`s of the cars and how fast they go this game does have very good graphics the graphics are amazing also from start to last the game does impress youv got alot of diffrent choices to choose from as which person to kill first and you get suprises from each of them .The first hand shooting on this game is actally quite amazing but the bad thing is when you aere going so fast in your car the tv will glitch adn freez the glitches on this are quite good as you can go online and you have to go to the secound islnd their is a swing there which if you keep hitting your car at it it flings you so far in the sky .This game would be my secound choice if i had it on a list even though it is good its not that good if you keep playing it and you get use to everything themusic on the game is quite intresting the radio i like is BEATS 87.2 this one has alot of rap on the radio.This game does amaze you some points as i bet you didnt know that you can give tramps money and also you have got alot of challeneges to complete in the game you have to shoot pigions to unlock something also you can ramp off ramps and fly and this will give you suprises i would appreiacte for looking Thanks for looking. Expand
  91. Nov 16, 2010
    10
    Grab a beer and wonder at the city lights and skylines that ooze of atmosphere. Atmoshere for me is what sets GTA apart from it's wannabees and clones. Just to peruse the city in a taxi is a joy in itself. The virtual world laid out before you is staggering. If the game had no plot and was just a free sprawling city that would be enough for me. Not surprisingly there is a plot and a damned good one. The game has few flaws in my book, the only flaw would be that previous incarnations may have taken a tiny amount of shine off this version , but even then not much. Great fun online and just as good chilling by yourself with a Scotch overlooking the statue of liberty. Expand
  92. Dec 20, 2010
    10
    A perfect game. Liberty city is absolutely beautiful. The story is absorbing. I could not put the controller down. The missions are varied and fewer time limited missions, which was a frustrating factor in previous games is a welcome change. The addition of the other minigames, a friend system, girlfriend system, etc., all contribute to this masterpiece. There are so many good things for this I don't even know what to say. Just buy it and play for yourself. Expand
  93. Nov 4, 2010
    9
    i have loved all of the GTA game sand this is no let down, provides hours of fun whether you follow the story line or go off and cause mayhem in the city..... the multi-player also adds another layer of fun whether your in the mood for a free for all or playing missions......
  94. Dec 7, 2010
    10
    Ive been playing GTA IV for over 20 years now its amazing ive been able to jump off the empire state building only to slide down the pyramids and land in amsterdam there i smoked weed
  95. Dec 16, 2010
    10
    THAT'S IT!THE BEST GTA EVER!Man this game is so good that is the best GTA game and best Xbox 360/PS3 game!This game is really good!No joke!The action BLAZES a lot!The perfect GTA game!
  96. Apr 11, 2012
    9
    Grand Theft Auto IV is a great game with a couple of irritating faults. Firstly, the world of Liberty City is quite drab and bland compared to the likes of San Andreas. In the same vein, the craziness of the series has been reeled in and sacrifices a lot of fun for realism. The game is also FAR too long. It just keeps going and going and going... If you want to see the end of the game, prepare to lose a huge chunk of your life in doing so! But all of these complaints ultimately mean nothing because GTAIV gives you much more good than bad. First and foremost, GTA is still the devil's playground. Want to blow off some steam? Roll a grenade into the hospital waiting room, baseball bat some policemen to death or stab a bunch of homeless people in the central park toilets. It's really sick and twisted but unbelievably hilarious. It's would be shocking if it wasn't so damn silly and glib. The multiplayer (particularly the racing) is also great and has very long legs, with people still playing online to this day. So yeah, There are certainly some quibbles but in the end GTAIV is a fantastic game. Expand
  97. Dec 31, 2010
    10
    Truly the best game I have ever played by a mile.
  98. Feb 8, 2011
    10
    Possibly the finest open world game ever created, and easily the best social satire ever concieved. A world were people live and breathe the lives of every one of us. From flipping open cell phones and chatting, going for coffee, having trouble parallel parking, hobo's at the bus stop, GTA4 is the single most immersive game world I have ever seen. Combine a lengthy campaign with a fantastic story, brilliant dialogue, amazing graphics, great music, unthinkable scale (the buildings loom over you as drive through the downtown and its a beauty to behold), and hundreds of hours worth of stuff to do... oh and how about all of that WITH 8 players online? GTA4 is a modern masterpiece. When I first played it in 2008 my jaw was floored. Now in 2011 after playing it all again with the two (also incredible) DLC campaigns, I can say my stance is virtualy unaltered, if not improved. You are not allowed to claim to be a gammer without experiencing GTA4. In my top 3 games of all time. Expand
  99. Feb 22, 2011
    10
    These games just get better and better. Captivating story, great graphics, fun gameplay and some humour. Quite simply the best game around. New York or should i say liberty city is brilliantly realised.
  100. Apr 3, 2012
    9
    San Adreas was a much better game. That being said, this has far better graphics and AI, and it separates itself from the other games by moving in a direction that's different. The map is a bit too small, and there's not many easter eggs... but it's still fun to drive around shooting at stuff and then launching your character out of windshields for hours on end.
Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 64 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 64
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 64
  3. Negative: 0 out of 64
  1. Grand Theft Auto IV is not a perfect game, but it is fantastic through and through, from start to finish and beyond. It is so massive, vast and impressive that it is almost mind-boggling to imagine how much work must have gone into the game to come up with so much detail.
  2. But GTA IV will never get old, or start repeating itself. It will always offer anyone who turns it on an experience to savour.
  3. GTA4 is a traditional crime story through and through, with a script that rarely strays from its purpose, a pitch-perfect supporting cast, and an expert combination of in-game storytelling and crafted cut-scenes. [June 2008, p.80]