The game is quite a good in terms of typical GTA style and effects. There are no real surprises just yet (Although I am only very early on in the game at the moment and have not yet even tried online multi-player, which is another new featured added and sounds very promising)
The graphics are good, not "absolutely amazing", but certainly a LOT better than the earlier versions.
The main character, Niko, is very easy to move around the map and is very capable at
using parkour to move around his environment (Much the same as was in GTA San Andreas although the movements are a lot smoother now). Shimming along ledges, vaulting over rails, gap jumps over rooftops and he also does an excellent roll when dropping down from height.Overall, I think this will be one of those games that stays in your collection for many many many months.
Certainly worth a play, but be prepared to put many hours aside for it. Just dabbing into it here and there can be very frustrating as there are soo many things to keep you busy. Especially all the odd jobs and tasks that are away from the main storyline such as taking out all 200 of the city's "Flying Rats" (Pigeons) to unlock the ultimate helicopter. (Helicopter is THE way to travel around Liberty city if you get the chance)
Niko gets given a cell phone and it turns out to be one of
the most useful tools in the game. From staying in touch with everyone
for social outings (Pool, darts, Bowling, Clubs, Restaurants) to
organising a free cab ride and also picking up your missions and odd
jobs here and there. Although it can sometimes be a pain when everyone
is constantly calling you all the time...
It's the little things that are really worth looking out for. Things like the weird TV channels, the similar wacky radio channels as before playing some current BIG artists on there too, getting into a cab (like a normal person) and enjoy the city while sitting in the back letting someone else do all the driving. This gives you time to make calls and arrange work plus can be very handy when you come back from a night out drinking and the world literally turns upside down. Walking becomes a problem, let a lone driving! :-)
The 18 age restriction in my opinion is a good thing, although all this negative publicity talk at the moment of a violent game becoming so popular is a bit strange seeing as a lot of the game violence is exactly as it was before in previous versions.
Having said that I would not recommend anyone under that age to be playing it
How many of you have started your mission as Niko, the Eastern European looking to make his dreams come true in Liberty City?
Have your say about the game in the Forum here:
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