Grand Theft Auto IV

 PlayStation 3
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5146 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,707 out of 5146
  2. Mixed: 810 out of 5146
  3. Negative: 629 out of 5146
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  1. PJ
    May 17, 2008
    7
    very much over-hyped, and not nearly as good as I thought it would be...It's a great game but theres so much disappointment. You should have to not have to unlock freeroaming, cops should not be so easy to escape, and some missions are a bit too lame. The multiplayer is awsome, but other than that the game feels like it could have been better. I think I had more fun playing Vice City very much over-hyped, and not nearly as good as I thought it would be...It's a great game but theres so much disappointment. You should have to not have to unlock freeroaming, cops should not be so easy to escape, and some missions are a bit too lame. The multiplayer is awsome, but other than that the game feels like it could have been better. I think I had more fun playing Vice City when it first came out....… Expand
  2. TheWatcher
    May 17, 2008
    7
    Shallow, repetitive, poor frame rates, bad controls, and virtual girlfriends - it's a spotty teenager's dream.
  3. Vidman
    May 26, 2008
    7
    Other than better graphics and a slightly better story, GTA4 is inferior to San Andreas. You spend 30+ hours of doing the same thing we've been doing for the last 3 GTAs. Absolutely nothing new to speak of.
  4. Korne
    Jun 24, 2008
    7
    This game has an excellent WOW factor, but the effect does not last much longer than a week. Beyond the bad shooting mechanics, weak story development, and a million things to distract you from what you are playing, is a very, very average GTA game that misses out on what made the series fun. No longer is the game a cartoony joke of mafias and gangs. The realistic physics is amazing, but This game has an excellent WOW factor, but the effect does not last much longer than a week. Beyond the bad shooting mechanics, weak story development, and a million things to distract you from what you are playing, is a very, very average GTA game that misses out on what made the series fun. No longer is the game a cartoony joke of mafias and gangs. The realistic physics is amazing, but the realistic world is a bore.… Expand
  5. BrettH.
    Jun 25, 2008
    6
    This game is an amazing visual upgrade from all the other GTA games in the series, however it lacks something needed to make a great game. The missions are very repetitive if you hadn't noticed before opening up the 2nd island. The online play is horrible with a mixture of most users using auto-aim to irrelevant game types such as TDM. GTA is not a game to go around shooting each This game is an amazing visual upgrade from all the other GTA games in the series, however it lacks something needed to make a great game. The missions are very repetitive if you hadn't noticed before opening up the 2nd island. The online play is horrible with a mixture of most users using auto-aim to irrelevant game types such as TDM. GTA is not a game to go around shooting each other in a huge city, it's a game that you go around shooting the city itself. The integration of choppers and other things is awesome however the actual game itself just lacks a good story line, motive and variety. I give this game a 6 simply because of the fact that it got so boring I quit playing it after I opened the 3rd island.… Expand
  6. JackH
    Jun 26, 2008
    6
    Good game, but get's boring after a while....not much revolutionizes this game...it's the same garbage we've been used to for years now in GTA titles...other than graphics...they took away instead of added to this series. Helping and defending people not worth giving a crap about (other than your cousin Roman) gets old fast. I'm 86% done with this game and haven't Good game, but get's boring after a while....not much revolutionizes this game...it's the same garbage we've been used to for years now in GTA titles...other than graphics...they took away instead of added to this series. Helping and defending people not worth giving a crap about (other than your cousin Roman) gets old fast. I'm 86% done with this game and haven't picked it up in 2 weeks. obviously not that great of a game for not holding my attention long enough. I played all the way through Call of duty 4 and MGS:4 without breaking away to play many of other games.… Expand
  7. MS
    Nov 23, 2009
    7
    Horribly over-hyped in nearly all respects. Rockstar Games have undoubtedly created an impressive digital world but have forgotten what makes games fun: their heart and soul. It's certainly a solid experience throughout but once it has lost it's original charm it never reclaims it. Unfortunately realism has been placed over fun.
  8. paulholycross
    Jan 25, 2009
    7
    no se que le ven a este juego si es muy entretenido no se niega par despues de unas horas es de lo mas plano que hay, el control es muy incomodo y en los espacios pequeños es inmanejable, la historia no se niega que es buena y tiene forma pero no alcanza la profundidad de otros juegos, por eso mismo no comprendo como fue el juego del año. definitibamente sanandreas todaviano se que le ven a este juego si es muy entretenido no se niega par despues de unas horas es de lo mas plano que hay, el control es muy incomodo y en los espacios pequeños es inmanejable, la historia no se niega que es buena y tiene forma pero no alcanza la profundidad de otros juegos, por eso mismo no comprendo como fue el juego del año. definitibamente sanandreas todavia sigue siendo el mejor de todos el mas completo y el mas entretenido.… Expand
  9. RyanV
    Feb 17, 2009
    6
    While a fan of the GTA series, I found this installment to be slow and boring. Not all may agree, but this is my personal opinion. It didn't do enough to draw me in, the driving was lackluster and the combat was awkward.
  10. Sasha
    Jun 21, 2009
    6
    This game was decent , but not the amazing and incredible game every one(not just critics) say it is. GTA 4 has a great story and cool characters with some fun free roaming, but it doesn't live up to it's score. it's slow, repetitive and the graphics kinda suck(they're on par with prototype). i was told the graphics were soooo good and how the game rocked so hard! i This game was decent , but not the amazing and incredible game every one(not just critics) say it is. GTA 4 has a great story and cool characters with some fun free roaming, but it doesn't live up to it's score. it's slow, repetitive and the graphics kinda suck(they're on par with prototype). i was told the graphics were soooo good and how the game rocked so hard! i gave it a multiple tries and each time i got the same reaction. "sigh...what now? oh, do the same thing again? oh sh** the cops!..i'm dead? what the hell, i was just evading them for the last 10 min! at least i get to repeat the level again..." try this game, it's decent, but i prefer crackdown, prototype, and godfather 2(each one individually) to GTA4. even San Andreas was more faced paced than this.… Expand
  11. IanM197
    Aug 18, 2010
    7
    While no one can say that Grand Theft Auto IV is a bad game, there's no denying that a lot of what made the series so fun and addictive in the first place is sorely missing from this entry. Tanks, parachutes, planes, push bikes, and inventive cheats are just some of the omissions, which make the fourth main entry in the series feel incredibly diluted in comparison to the previous behemoth,While no one can say that Grand Theft Auto IV is a bad game, there's no denying that a lot of what made the series so fun and addictive in the first place is sorely missing from this entry. Tanks, parachutes, planes, push bikes, and inventive cheats are just some of the omissions, which make the fourth main entry in the series feel incredibly diluted in comparison to the previous behemoth, San Andreas. The graphics, gameplay, and story have all been improved upon though, and the incredible Euphoria physics engine makes the game a joy to play. If a future entry brings back the inventiveness of San Andreas, improves the graphics further and implements the Euphoria engine, Rockstar may well have the best game of this generation on their hands.… Expand
  12. Smartacus
    Aug 30, 2010
    7
    Not a bad game, but not one to write home about either. Put aside all the hype and the fact that there is a large amount of game play, what is left is a game that is just slightly above average. Unless you are a completest, I would recommend to play just the main storyline. Everything else is just filler meant to suck away you time from better games.
  13. Mojo1977
    Oct 27, 2010
    6
    I bought this game the day it came out. After played the hell out of San Sndreas, how could I now. The graphics blew me away and the opening scene and music is just awesome. Aiming is great and puts the camera right in the action. Problem with the game?
    After a while the missions are just work. Where is all of the fun? Where are the harrier jets, mustang fighter planes, jet packs, 3' long    I bought this game the day it came out. After played the hell out of San Sndreas, how could I now. The graphics blew me away and the opening scene and music is just awesome. Aiming is great and puts the camera right in the action. Problem with the game?
    After a while the missions are just work. Where is all of the fun? Where are the harrier jets, mustang fighter planes, jet packs, 3' long **** for weapons, etc...? The best part of San Andreas was the wacky stuff in the game. I havent played the game since the first week. Maybe it gets better, but without a chance of stealing a 777, what's the point.

    Graphics = 10
    Gameplay = 8.5
    FUN = 5    … Expand
  14. Axelskull
    May 21, 2011
    6
    Why must i forever be fat Niko? Average gameplay, average story, removal of some key things like the gym. Like no aircrafts at all.

    p.s. this 150 minimum words is really quite annoying.
  15. Dahonk
    Feb 9, 2014
    5
    Great graphics and soundtrack but the driving aspect of the game is average to say the least and the less said the better about 3rd person shooter and melee side. I wouldn't have this down as the greatest game of all time and i think the professional reviewers just get taken over by the hype.
  16. kitsoon
    Aug 25, 2011
    6
    I played this game for a week and feel bad that I didn't give it a second chance or anything. But I kind of wanted to play through the game as like a good, good guy and thought that that was kind of difficult. Like I don't enjoy just going around crashing cars and stuff, which I know is the main appeal of this game for a lot of people. There's really not much to do in the city, or at leastI played this game for a week and feel bad that I didn't give it a second chance or anything. But I kind of wanted to play through the game as like a good, good guy and thought that that was kind of difficult. Like I don't enjoy just going around crashing cars and stuff, which I know is the main appeal of this game for a lot of people. There's really not much to do in the city, or at least the beginning. You can't understand a single word the Jamaican guy(s) say(s) so it's best to turn on subtitles for at least those parts. Driving controls kind of blow as in every. single. Rockstar. game. I did like the different camera options you had when driving. I also liked the cell phone, that was kind of cool. The characters were fairly interesting, I just wasn't really into the story being Niko running errands around for the big dogs.… Expand
  17. kowalski
    Dec 31, 2012
    5
    GTA4 has too many issues, too many repetitive missions, and too many downfalls to be considered anything else than over-hyped. The story could have been more addictive, and the missions are either too easy or way-too-hard. There are so few true innovations, and overall it feels like a step backwards, which is a huge disappointment, especially for such masters as Rockstar.
  18. BlacksitePSU
    Oct 6, 2011
    7
    Although GTA IV makes its debut as a "next-gen" title for the PS3 and Xbox 360, it has fell short in terms of visuals and fun gameplay to introduce a more realistic approach to the series. At best, it can be described as a title in its respective series that improves upon the core elements of any sandbox title to a startling degree: story, firefights, driving/walking physics, open-worldAlthough GTA IV makes its debut as a "next-gen" title for the PS3 and Xbox 360, it has fell short in terms of visuals and fun gameplay to introduce a more realistic approach to the series. At best, it can be described as a title in its respective series that improves upon the core elements of any sandbox title to a startling degree: story, firefights, driving/walking physics, open-world level design, all of which feel more real and authentic. However the most important element in any sandbox title is replay value. So can you honestly tell me that you enjoy getting calls from your cousin to go bowling? It's not the worst game I've ever played but it's not very memorable either.… Expand
  19. the_blueprint
    Dec 11, 2013
    7
    Technically this game is very good. The story is good, the ending of the story is one off the most gripping moments ever. But, why is this game gta? Why has this game an open world? There is nothing do do in the open world, not like in the previous gta games. The gameplay has improved a lot over previous installments but if they focused on the story, made this exact game but more linearTechnically this game is very good. The story is good, the ending of the story is one off the most gripping moments ever. But, why is this game gta? Why has this game an open world? There is nothing do do in the open world, not like in the previous gta games. The gameplay has improved a lot over previous installments but if they focused on the story, made this exact game but more linear and focus more on the gameplay it could've been so much better. Such a big and beautiful world and nothing to do in it. It's a shame.… Expand
  20. Zilcell
    Nov 9, 2012
    5
    The biggest problem with the game is the controls. Could they have made driving not feel like a chore? And because they put the cheat system in the phone, its very difficult to access. San Andreas is better because it had more weapons, better controls, and better cheats. San Andreas has a jetpack and flying cars cheats and other great ones. Does GTA 4 have any of this? No.
  21. PKslime
    Nov 8, 2011
    5
    I like me some GTA. And this is like... next gen GTA. But that's where the fun stops. I dislike this game the more I play it. Niko is unlikeable. He's too shy, never wants to talk about the plot. Someone will say "Hey, Niko! Why did you come to America?" And he'll respond something like, "I don't want to talk about it." Well, **** Now I'm curious. So the story sucks, theI like me some GTA. And this is like... next gen GTA. But that's where the fun stops. I dislike this game the more I play it. Niko is unlikeable. He's too shy, never wants to talk about the plot. Someone will say "Hey, Niko! Why did you come to America?" And he'll respond something like, "I don't want to talk about it." Well, **** Now I'm curious. So the story sucks, the characters are entirely annoying. My favorite was the in-your-face bro, because at least i expected him to be annoying. The NPCs are always bothering you, calling you, talking about stupid stuff. They want to go play mini-games that aren't fun. I don't understand. The gameplay seems to have gone downhill as well. Like, there's a little green line that shows you where to go on the mini-map. It's really helpful if you're, you know, stupid or lazy. I guess people like this one because it has "modern graphics" but I'm not even sure it looks so hot. Motion blur sucks, that's not an opinion. It has a weird grainy quality to it, not a film grain, more like a blurry this-is-the-best-we-could-do quality. Niko leans when he turns, this was the deal breaker for me. Do people tilt back and forth when they walk around corners? I never noticed it before. Seems minor, but you literally have to look at this animation constantly while playing. I'm tired of thinking about this game.… Expand
  22. MediaFreak
    Dec 28, 2011
    7
    The Graphics and the fact the GTA 4 is massive is fantastic. However GTA 4 is let down big time on the gameplay. It baffles me that critics can give it such a good score while being aware of this. The story isn't very interesting nor is the character very likeable. The mission are very very repetative, and it's usually the duller ones that are the most frustrating. Wondering aroundThe Graphics and the fact the GTA 4 is massive is fantastic. However GTA 4 is let down big time on the gameplay. It baffles me that critics can give it such a good score while being aware of this. The story isn't very interesting nor is the character very likeable. The mission are very very repetative, and it's usually the duller ones that are the most frustrating. Wondering around the game doing your own thing is the most fun you'll get out of this game, as the makers don't seem to understand what variation means. It's generally just Drive from A to B, Kill everyone, Drive to C.… Expand
  23. mrnice
    Aug 27, 2017
    7
    Saved by the satire and the social commentary. However, this series is due for some creative thinking about mission design. In terms of what the player is doing on a mission-to-mission basis, the game offers little refreshment or expansion to what older entries offered. Even way back to GTA III in 2001.

    It's like, the tropes are there, and a helicopter is introduced in late game (uhhhh    Saved by the satire and the social commentary. However, this series is due for some creative thinking about mission design. In terms of what the player is doing on a mission-to-mission basis, the game offers little refreshment or expansion to what older entries offered. Even way back to GTA III in 2001.

    It's like, the tropes are there, and a helicopter is introduced in late game (uhhhh spoiler I guess) but the game doesn't really play with the players' expectations in terms of mission content.

    After the campaign is finished, the sandbox doesn't open up but on the contrary seems like a semi empty shell for fun gameplay. Some players have commented that this illustrates the meaninglessness of materialistic pursuit (i.e. the american gangster dream is pointless, kids). But then why didn't Rockstar shove the fun sandbox content into earlier parts of the game, and made an optional part that 'unlocked' the meaninglessness? It's like GTA IV doesn't reach a point where its map gets utilized in a very satisfying way.

    The online part was surprisingly still quite active. I give an extra point for that. I got an idea for a future game, wherein players could create their own maps "inside" skyscrapers. Like obstacle courses for other players, shooting ranges and various missions. Made by the community. Unlocked by in-game currency and made using an extensive level editor. That would make GTA feel like an adventure again.

    The "underdog rising up ranks" story has become a nuisance almost.    … Expand
  24. ClassicGamer89
    Aug 9, 2012
    5
    This game is far from perfect, there is nothing innovative, the characters are not likable, the story is unoriginal, and the game just consist of stealing cars, killing innocent people,. and boring side quests. This game is not anywhere near as good as some of these people say. I liked GTA 3 better, and i don't like GTA that much period.
  25. SebUK
    Oct 23, 2012
    5
    Nothing to do apart from drive around and kill people. Fighting system is completely 100% awful, controls / game play / movement on foot is clunky, unresponsive and slow. No activities to take part in, for example muggings, robberies, burgulary, import / export, arena sports etc. They stripped the game bare and made it boring as ****
  26. Cole123
    Aug 23, 2014
    6
    I can understand the "pros" 98% but I fell sorry when some users give a 10 to a boring and repetitive game like this. The multiplayer can be fun and the story aspect of the game is great but the gameplay is absolute trash. Really disappointed with this one Rockstar.
  27. xScooda
    Mar 26, 2013
    5
    The story was boring. Gameplay was boring. However it did have significantly better graphics, just a step down in everything else after gta san andreas. I 'm so glad the next gta isn't in NY.
  28. Gravelord
    Feb 1, 2013
    7
    GTA 4 is a slight downgrade from the previous games in the series, it is missing many of the elements that made the previous installments of the series amazing games but at the same time adds some cool new stuff also. The biggest negative this game has is it's story missions and side missions, these felt like a repetitive bore rather than a supposed amazing experience that they wereGTA 4 is a slight downgrade from the previous games in the series, it is missing many of the elements that made the previous installments of the series amazing games but at the same time adds some cool new stuff also. The biggest negative this game has is it's story missions and side missions, these felt like a repetitive bore rather than a supposed amazing experience that they were promised to be. Most characters in the game felt boring and uninteresting even the main character of newly settled Liberty city resident Niko Belic, who just acts like a angry and unfunny stereotypical Russian thought the entire game along with his funny and more interesting cousin Roman Belic.

    Another major negative about this game is the decreased map size and lack of vehicles in the game. What made the previous GTA games great is the pure and utter stupidity of them, with over the top vehicles like the hover car or the jet pack and the massive map size with unique and interesting locations to explore like military bases. But GTA 4 falters massively in these categories. It's map size is smaller than previous GTA games like San Andreas and at the same time more uninteresting to explore, with shooting pigeons and playing darts the only to really do. The vehicles in the game are also much more uninspired than previous games, instead of running people down in tanks or causing some chaos in jets, you instead can grab a ride in a taxi and explore the bland area of Liberty city for the insane price of $20 in game dollars. However GTA 4 delivers really well on some features. The multiplayer is a prime example of this, with 14 excellent game modes and a massive 8 players party mode the bland Liberty City can become a hectic and thrilling place. Although there are still some lag and connection problems in the multiplayer. Also worth noting is the visuals of GTA 4 as they are nothing short of amazing and really help make you feel that you are walking around in Liberty city.

    Overall GTA 4 is a great game with many flaws, major and minor, but still delivers well on multiplayer and just overall fun. I recommend anybody should go out and buy this game as it offers much enjoyment and epicness. 7/10-Great.    … Expand
  29. ratchet23
    Feb 14, 2014
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After playing the outstanding PS2 GTAs I thought that on the PS3, the game would be fantastic.
    When I started the game, I thought it was pretty good, but soon after, I found it wasn't as fun as I had hoped.
    Graphically, the game is great, seeing as it was released in 2008.
    Liberty City is a great setting, the city has great detail and has some cool easter eggs. However, compared to the huge San Andreas, this feels really small and I found myself driving from the airport to the other side in no time.
    The characters are kind of a mixed back, I feel alienated by Nikos views on violence. Many a time would I hear things like "Blah blah I did terrible things at the war, cousin, blah blah." Right after he shot an employer (of sorts) in the head for having an affair with his cousins girlfriend. I do enjoy his random quotes after getting hit by cars or failing a mission.
    The other main characters are ok for the most part. Except for cousin Roman. He is the most annoying
    person in any video game ever. Brucie is kind of annoying but kind of funny. I like Jacob for some reason.

    I can't stand the tone of the game. On the internet, you find news stories that may be related to your actions in the storyline, they're funny but you may not even see them. Mostly the game is all dull and dreary, with a grey feel to everything.

    The gameplay is decent, I love the car control sometimes, but in missions when chasing people (as you will be with the very few unique missions in the game, mostly you just have to hunt someone, chase someone or intercept a drug deal) it gets so annoying. Cars control like a man in dress shoes on an ice rink. Shooting is quite alright.
    The pastimes are so tedious though, quite often you get a call from Roman or one of your other friends asking if you want to go bowling, I think you can disable these but if you do go bowling or whatever, its quite boring and tedious.

    This game had alot of good features and alot of bad ones, neither outweigh eachother.    … Expand
  30. Wargears
    Feb 14, 2018
    6
    Most overrated game riddled with a lot of issues. From poor framerate, horrible shooting mechanics, broken cover system, cars drives like boats, no fun activites, repetitive missions, and very stupid ai. Only good thing I could say about the game was the graphics. I can't even process why this game gets a really high reviews from critics.
  31. kuzlac
    May 7, 2013
    7
    GTA IV is a good game. I enjoy the open-world and non-linear game designs in GTA IV. You are free to jack any vehicle you like and kill anyone you dislike. You are free to complete the missions in any order you want.

    It is a good game. Graphics(7/10), audio(9/10), storyline(8/10) and gameplay(8/10).
  32. Vyrotix
    Jan 12, 2015
    6
    While GTA IV had more of a dark story, the overall 'everything' for this game is quite disappointing.

    7 years later, GTA IV is still boring after story completion, and there isn't anything to do afterwards, unless you like killing pigeons across LC. For this game to get a 98, and for GTA V to get a 97 is quite ridiculous. When I played the game in 2008, I still had the same    While GTA IV had more of a dark story, the overall 'everything' for this game is quite disappointing.

    7 years later, GTA IV is still boring after story completion, and there isn't anything to do afterwards, unless you like killing pigeons across LC.

    For this game to get a 98, and for GTA V to get a 97 is quite ridiculous.

    When I played the game in 2008, I still had the same opinion I have now.

    I give this game a 6.5/10, because the story is the only thing that had me on this game for more.    … Expand
  33. nonbiased
    Nov 1, 2013
    5
    I regret to say I was swept up in the moment. Jumped on the bandwagon. Became a sheep to the games industry... and I regret it. Looking back now I realise just how austere GTA IV was. Once you had completed the game there was nothing more to do but tedious side missions. the campaign was only just better but the ending was a let down. This game was a large step back from its predecessorI regret to say I was swept up in the moment. Jumped on the bandwagon. Became a sheep to the games industry... and I regret it. Looking back now I realise just how austere GTA IV was. Once you had completed the game there was nothing more to do but tedious side missions. the campaign was only just better but the ending was a let down. This game was a large step back from its predecessor and dare I say it............................... Overrated. I do hate that word.)

    Perhaps I am being to harsh, after all it was an old game on a brand new console back then. No one had played a game like it before on an Xbox or Ps3. however as games got better, you start to realise the flaws in a game you once thought the world of.
    To start of with the story is a bit cliché. some missions are a bit hit and miss. the cover mechanics are clunky and un-polished but the shooting is much like the others so no problems there. Driving is quite a nuisance because all the vehicles are massively heavy and cannot swerve without crashing. Speaking of crashing though, the explosions looked amazing back then and still hold up now. Despite the name of the game you wont want to commit any crimes though. The police apparently see everything and know exactly where you are when hiding. this angers me as it pretty much messes up an iconic part of GTA. exploring the city can be fun at times but I would take a helicopter.( the cheat is 359-555-0100 on Nikos phone).

    But I could forgive that all if it wasn't for your cousin ringing you up every fifteen minutes to do dull activities with him. If you don't then his bond declines with you. Its punishment either way. At least let us say no.
    At the end of the game you have all your money so what do you spend it on... all. There is only a few things you can spend money on. Weapons which you will find anyway and clothes which there is very little choice of.

    My verdict is that this game is not as good as the gleaming glistening reviews it got. But I understand why they gave it those perfect reviews and that's because we all did. Everyone who bought the game at one point, loved it. But time rots everything and surely enough when you want to replay years from now... you will sigh a breath of boredom when dear old cousin rings you up    … Expand
  34. PadrinoSRB
    May 26, 2014
    7
    It's really nice story and that car driving in game is so realistic, but graphic is not great, it's like "black and white" sometime...that's the only reason why i don't like GTA IV
  35. QuesoElGrande
    Jun 3, 2014
    6
    Good game, but highly overrated in my opinion. Niko Bellic is an interesting character at first, but seems very monotonous and bland after some time. Other characters are forgettable due to no discernable trait. Driving is very frustrating and rage inducing during car chase sequences. Liberty City is very nice, but noticeably " copy and paste " after some time in the city. Controls areGood game, but highly overrated in my opinion. Niko Bellic is an interesting character at first, but seems very monotonous and bland after some time. Other characters are forgettable due to no discernable trait. Driving is very frustrating and rage inducing during car chase sequences. Liberty City is very nice, but noticeably " copy and paste " after some time in the city. Controls are sub-par and animations could have polished some more. In hindsight, the only redeeming quality is the DLC, both are very well done and offer much more than the base game. The game's problems with controls and driving wouldn't be noticeable if there was any form of checkpoint system in missions, instead you have to start from the beginning and painstakingly drive back to the area you died at. I think it doesn't deserves a 98, but it does deserve to be experienced at least once if you want to experience it for yourself.

    Time did not do this game any favors, especially with how much Red Dead Redemption and GTA V have raised the standard expected of Rockstar games.    … Expand
  36. leopardmichael
    Aug 23, 2014
    6
    This game is big and full of glitches. I love GTA but this game is hard to play. The controls and camera angle make this game very frustrating. With a little more focus on the basic game play this game could have been great. Compared to GTA 5 this game sucks. Compared to previous and new GTA games this game is at the bottom. The story and Characters are fine but game play is horrible.
  37. hon777
    Sep 20, 2014
    7
    This game is overrated. Reasons? This game has done nothing new for the series as a whole, nor was it too interesting. GTA San Andreas was much better, brought a lot more to this game series and was actually pretty fun because it felt more immersive. I'm actually not sure what feeling of accomplishment or fun that I should be deriving from this game because all you are looking for isThis game is overrated. Reasons? This game has done nothing new for the series as a whole, nor was it too interesting. GTA San Andreas was much better, brought a lot more to this game series and was actually pretty fun because it felt more immersive. I'm actually not sure what feeling of accomplishment or fun that I should be deriving from this game because all you are looking for is either money, weapons, or cars. Not something that big of a deal considering all you are going to do with that is either kill for more money, weapons, or cars and the gameplay is not that great or fun enough to keep one's interest. The one thing that it did good on for the series was perhaps the story, but it wasn't really enough to continue to captivate my interest.… Expand
  38. taiottavios
    Feb 5, 2015
    6
    I played GTA:San Andreas for PS2 to death. That's why I'm disappointed with this game. I played it without the updates when I had no internet connection so maybe I'm talking about something that has been fixed (but I don't think so). I was strongly hoping that the amazing character that Rockstar created for this title was not going to fall into the same storyline plot of every GTA title.I played GTA:San Andreas for PS2 to death. That's why I'm disappointed with this game. I played it without the updates when I had no internet connection so maybe I'm talking about something that has been fixed (but I don't think so). I was strongly hoping that the amazing character that Rockstar created for this title was not going to fall into the same storyline plot of every GTA title. It wasn't the case. The plot was flat and it lacked thrilling elements. You can make some choices during the story but in no way you can alterate the flow of events, and, let's be honest, it's always the same criminal story featured in every GTA (but San Andreas, there was the "gang war" theme). There are still some fun features like the "get drunk" thing, or the mini games that you play in some locations (like bowling with Roman, you sure heard of that), but they removed all those things that really sticked me to the display for hours when playing San Andreas. Not a bad game after all, but it could have been made better, it's for games like this that people like me leaves a franchise, I have no interest in GTA5 and I will not buy it because of this game, try Sleeping Dogs instead!… Expand
  39. erbixuela
    Jan 16, 2015
    7
    Después de Jugar a san andrea me parecio un poco malo.............................................................................................................................................
  40. PeterAlexander
    Jan 6, 2016
    7
    Whilst GTA IV had the recipe for one of the greatest games of all time, it couldn't really capture the magic a Grand Theft Auto game would truly need to excel. GTA IV was far too dark, the main character was one dimensional and the game simply lacked the vibrant world it had the potential to produce. Nevertheless, it provided a premise that could perhaps be fulfilled in later instalments.
  41. Elerrwi44
    Dec 19, 2016
    7
    Short. Very few hours you can play in the game. The map is so freakin' small and on top of that it's full with buildings. Boring repetitive missions. Few guns available in the game, and also there's no weapon customization. The physics are ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE. Cars felt goofy, not realistic AT ALL. Graphics are bad. After finishing the boring repetitive storyline there's almost nothing toShort. Very few hours you can play in the game. The map is so freakin' small and on top of that it's full with buildings. Boring repetitive missions. Few guns available in the game, and also there's no weapon customization. The physics are ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE. Cars felt goofy, not realistic AT ALL. Graphics are bad. After finishing the boring repetitive storyline there's almost nothing to do. Very few vehicles. Very few stores available. Such a downgrade from GTA SA.

    Still, it has that DARK Grand Theft Auto feeling tho, and characters are great.    … Expand
  42. Jaleo
    Jan 13, 2017
    7
    Can't remember a lot because it was many years ago, but sure it was fun, and San Andreas put the level so high so it had a hard task to surpass it. Most probably the GTA I played the less hours because besides bowling and a few sidequests, there's not much else to do but the missions, some of them interesting. This one made a high jump when it comes to quality, but maybe lacked some charmCan't remember a lot because it was many years ago, but sure it was fun, and San Andreas put the level so high so it had a hard task to surpass it. Most probably the GTA I played the less hours because besides bowling and a few sidequests, there's not much else to do but the missions, some of them interesting. This one made a high jump when it comes to quality, but maybe lacked some charm and charisma. Let's go play some bowling cousin, and play with the swing! (that was truly hilarious and glad that Rockstar didn't fix that bug)… Expand
  43. RandomWhorie
    Jul 6, 2017
    6
    Técnicamente es un desastre debido a la mala optimización que hicieron de él por parte de sus desarrolladores por lo menos en el port de PS3, con un velo tabaquero cubriendo las calles de Liberty City, además de lo poco definido que están los "muñecos" con caras de plástico e inexpresivas un déficit incluso para la generación de la época, sino comparad con su hermano GTA 5. Su historiaTécnicamente es un desastre debido a la mala optimización que hicieron de él por parte de sus desarrolladores por lo menos en el port de PS3, con un velo tabaquero cubriendo las calles de Liberty City, además de lo poco definido que están los "muñecos" con caras de plástico e inexpresivas un déficit incluso para la generación de la época, sino comparad con su hermano GTA 5. Su historia principal es cruda pero superior al resto de la serie Grand Theft Auto.… Expand
  44. egoBorder
    Aug 9, 2021
    7
    This remains a must-play, but often seriously hampered by technical flaws. This PS3 version often slows to a crawl, and you will lose long and complex action set-pieces because of issues with the cover system and things like that. However, this world is so rich and unique that it's hard to imagine some piece of it won't endear itself to players. You're probably better off seeking theThis remains a must-play, but often seriously hampered by technical flaws. This PS3 version often slows to a crawl, and you will lose long and complex action set-pieces because of issues with the cover system and things like that. However, this world is so rich and unique that it's hard to imagine some piece of it won't endear itself to players. You're probably better off seeking the moddable PC version instead, but as a quaint throwback this flawed sandbox retains a lot of charm to this day.… Expand
  45. tomflanders
    Dec 3, 2021
    6
    For me, this game didn't add anything to previous titles except for a new storyline. Didn't find that storyline engaging at all and barely played this title compared to the others. Would've thought this was an excellent game if I'd never played the others
  46. BlitZeR_95
    May 5, 2018
    7
    I would say this is average at best for a GTA game. Story was meh but the main protagonist was a good character. He pretty much carried some part of this game
  47. eayuelo
    Sep 6, 2021
    6
    It's OK...the game is fun, with a lot of action and a world full of things to do. The story is good but the characters are lame. The interactions of Niko with his friends, family or pairs never feel real. Niko is like a robot that only kills for money. Personally I experienced some serious bugs in very important moments of the game, wich is very annoying.
    This is a good game, but I think    It's OK...the game is fun, with a lot of action and a world full of things to do. The story is good but the characters are lame. The interactions of Niko with his friends, family or pairs never feel real. Niko is like a robot that only kills for money. Personally I experienced some serious bugs in very important moments of the game, wich is very annoying.
    This is a good game, but I think it's a little over rated.    … Expand
  48. Mindurbidniss
    Mar 11, 2022
    7
    First of all I want to praise the level of detail and immersion. The issue is, in the jump to realism, they lost the fun of San Andreas and those before. They also dropped a ton of features, virtually no customization as far as clothes and cars. Another area that's seriously lacking in this vs previous GTA's is in the characters. They're simply not interesting. Niko may be the leastFirst of all I want to praise the level of detail and immersion. The issue is, in the jump to realism, they lost the fun of San Andreas and those before. They also dropped a ton of features, virtually no customization as far as clothes and cars. Another area that's seriously lacking in this vs previous GTA's is in the characters. They're simply not interesting. Niko may be the least interesting of all and at no point did I connect with him or route for him. Other aspects of this game such as the realistic vehicle handling and cover mechanics were excellent additions though and led to some cinematic situations.… Expand
  49. FrpMan
    Dec 19, 2020
    7
    Oyun hikaye olarak güzel olsa da oynanış olarak biraz yorucu. Araba mekaniklerine alışmak zaman alıyor ve LC yani new york fazla gri geliyor insana.
  50. elolugo
    Nov 11, 2021
    7
    Cool game. With enhancements but with downgrades as well. San Andreas raise the bar too high i guess
  51. Descole
    Apr 6, 2020
    7
    Its a decent game. The story is solid and the soundtrack is pretty good, only thing whats not good is the Gameplay. Could be better
  52. Blinky-driv3r
    Apr 22, 2020
    6
    Unas 300 horas jugadas. Creo que no alcanza los 720p. Un juego que superó los gráficos, detalles y mecanicas de juego del GTA SA, pero que sin embargo, carece de cantidad de contenido tanto jugable como personalizable. Un juego que se acercó al realismo, lo cual a muchos jugadores no ha gustado.
    Un modo online con 13 modos de juego simples pero entretenidos. Un gran juego, pero que no    Unas 300 horas jugadas. Creo que no alcanza los 720p. Un juego que superó los gráficos, detalles y mecanicas de juego del GTA SA, pero que sin embargo, carece de cantidad de contenido tanto jugable como personalizable. Un juego que se acercó al realismo, lo cual a muchos jugadores no ha gustado.
    Un modo online con 13 modos de juego simples pero entretenidos. Un gran juego, pero que no cumplió todas las expectativas.    … Expand
  53. kardlynx
    May 12, 2020
    6
    by far, it is the most overrated game in the saga, very boring missions, the only really remarkable things are the physics and history of the game
  54. thanasis2b1479
    Jul 22, 2020
    6
    Story=It is the best story in the gta series with funny characters and a more greedy tone. Gameplay=F*cking terrible,driving is WAY TOO UNREALISTIC,weapons feel weak and followed by these terrible shooting mechanics and cover system,losing the cops is the easiest or hardest thing ever. Visuals/Physics=Visuals look ok for today(game is from 2008).Physics are actually really impressive(someStory=It is the best story in the gta series with funny characters and a more greedy tone. Gameplay=F*cking terrible,driving is WAY TOO UNREALISTIC,weapons feel weak and followed by these terrible shooting mechanics and cover system,losing the cops is the easiest or hardest thing ever. Visuals/Physics=Visuals look ok for today(game is from 2008).Physics are actually really impressive(some better than gta v/rdr2)probably cause of the different engine they now use. Dlcs are really good because of story but still a let down cause of gameplay Overall=Gta 4 is a good game that is overrated by people's nostalgia,if you are looking for a good story play it but know the gameplay is f*cking terrible… Expand
  55. AntonioSantos
    Nov 15, 2021
    7
    O game envelheceu mal, comparado ao GTA 5 no quesito diversão ele fica pra trás, em questão de mecânicas e físicas pode até ser bom, mas muito realismo em games pode ser um tanto chato, em fim, na época que lançou talvez tenha sido algo que impressionou bastante a Crítica, mas hoje em dia vemos o quão envelheceu esse Game.
  56. gix01
    Nov 30, 2022
    6
    un gioco noioso , che stufa nel giro di poco tempo , anche se preso per 10 euro , non ne è valsa minimamente la pena; uno dei giochi più sopravvalutati della storia , Null'altro da dire.
  57. tufekciero
    Mar 12, 2021
    7
    BRONZ zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  58. Semyon_McDale
    Jan 3, 2022
    6
    Графика для 2008 года хорошая,но с мылом. Играть конечно возможно. С плюсов могу отметить более мение реалестичную стрельбу. Единственный жирный минус это сюжет. Он никакой.
  59. MadIsAdopted
    Dec 4, 2022
    7
    The most controversial game in the whole GTA franchise for sure. It's really quite hard to formulate a final verdict because it's all love-and-hate.

    Pros: - best score music in the series + huge variety of radio stations - best physics in the series - the biggest improvement comparing to previous game - best interaction with objects in the series Cons: - hella repetitive -    The most controversial game in the whole GTA franchise for sure. It's really quite hard to formulate a final verdict because it's all love-and-hate.

    Pros:
    - best score music in the series + huge variety of radio stations
    - best physics in the series
    - the biggest improvement comparing to previous game
    - best interaction with objects in the series

    Cons:
    - hella repetitive
    - blurry af with goofy graphics. I feel like I have myopia each time I play GTA 4
    - 25 fps on average
    - lacks features from previous games like garages, parachutes, jet packs, estate and etc.
    - Open world has no interesting aftergame activities to offer

    Uncertain:
    - Driving physics are very impressive but annoying when it comes to chasing a victim or escaping from cops
    - plot is realistic and serious, however despite amount of various events in mission progression feels bland and forgettable.

    So yeah, light 7/10 seems about right to me    … Expand
  60. PYTH00
    Aug 15, 2023
    7
    This game has a special place for me, whether it's the story, whether it's the gameplay, whether it's driving a car, it was a very different and special experience for me, the story of Niko Bellic, our main character, was beautiful, I couldn't finish it completely because being a hitman always makes you very tired, but it's a very nice game for a game that came out according to that time.
  61. Oguxhan19
    Jun 30, 2022
    7
    Normal bir oyun olarak ortanın biraz üstü, bir GTA oyunu olarak çok zayıf bir oyun.
  62. Iannzera
    Aug 6, 2022
    6
    Tenho que admitir, joguei apenas 5 horas do game, pretendo zerar sim, porém me deparei com problemas bem óbvios e escancarados, que me impressionam em como esse jogo teve a proeza de no PlayStation 3 conseguir uma nota como 98. •Primeiro: esse jogo é impossível de se enxergar de dia, sinplesmente é preciso aumentar o brilho do jogo(o que piora drásticamente a resolução e a saturação doTenho que admitir, joguei apenas 5 horas do game, pretendo zerar sim, porém me deparei com problemas bem óbvios e escancarados, que me impressionam em como esse jogo teve a proeza de no PlayStation 3 conseguir uma nota como 98. •Primeiro: esse jogo é impossível de se enxergar de dia, sinplesmente é preciso aumentar o brilho do jogo(o que piora drásticamente a resolução e a saturação do mesmo) fazendo com que a imersão já se perca graficamente. A noite já não tenho problema nenhum com a iluminação (ironicamente é bem mais bonito e detalhado à noite). Quanto a jogabilidade, para a nova geração de consoles da época, as mecânicas embora em termos de física são muito boas, com ragdolls incríveis, movimentação e tudo mais.... Porém a jogabilidade é extremamente travada, lenta, os controles no cover respondem bem mal, trocar de Arma é até pior que o seu antecessor, inclusive mantendo aspectos extremamente ultrapassados de seus antecessores como: falta de checkpoint na missão,(não tenho problema com o jogo ser mais difícil, mas sim com o fato de te dificultar com aspectos desnecessários) como você simplesmente perder a missão e ter que fazer o caminho de volta a ela tudo de novo, é extremamente frustrante, a jogabilidade travada afeta até nos carros, que por mais que eu entendo a proposta de realismo, não se encaixa na mesma, pois eles não são só pesados como impossíveis de se controlar em alta velocidade e em fazer curvas, o que entra em desacordo com a lógica de realismo em que sabemos que quanto mais rápido está o carro, mais fácil é de se fazer curvas. Isso faz com que as missões de carro e perseguição que são NÚCLEO de toda a franquia, sejam extremamente frustrantes e chataas. Não consegui persistir porque todos esses aspectos me tiraram da imersão do jogo,. Sseu aspecto sandbox é pra mim o pior da saga pra sua época, não acho Liberty City uma cidade atrativa nesse jogo, seu filtro estraga mais ainda minha capacidade de comtemplação, não comprei essa ideia da liberty city cinzenta, mesmo que seua meio crítica com a alta poluíção e a vida meio sombria no local. Não sinto vontade em explorar. A única coisa que parecia me atrair era a história, que mesmo assim não te puxa muito no início, é pesada e mais séria, mas nos momentos cômicos ao estilo gta, não se destaca. Simplesmente o mais fraco da franquia. Sinto até mais interesse em jogar suas expanções do que o jogo principal em si. Muito superestimado pela crítica, ainda mais com defeitos técnicos claríssimos.… Expand
  63. zarvx
    Jul 19, 2023
    6
    niko is best male protagonist in the grand theft auto world. he's cool and such a badass.
  64. lizardkingg
    Jul 21, 2023
    7
    Overall, it's not a bad game, but compared to it's predecessors it feels underwhelming. I tried, but ultimately lost interest.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PS3 Game of 2008
1
#1 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2008
1
#1 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
98

Universal acclaim - based on 64 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 64
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 64
  3. Negative: 0 out of 64
  1. Jolt Online Gaming UK
    100
    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.
    Read full review
  2. Gameplayer
    100
    But GTA IV will never get old, or start repeating itself. It will always offer anyone who turns it on an experience to savour.
    Read full review
  3. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    100
    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]
See all critic reviews »