Grand Theft Auto IV : Are you looking forward to it?

[Nocturnal Stillness]

GTA the daddy of Sandbox games is nearly here in its latest guise Grand Theft Auto IV.

Are you looking forward to it?

Ive been a fan of the series since the first GTA on the pc, and have played all the main console games 1,2,3, vice city and san andreas.

I like the fact that as well as do the missions you could just drive about and explore and have fun listening to the brilliant music or the crazy talk shows found in the game.

So as you can probablly tell Im looking forward to this next installment and plan to buy it for my 360.

But what about you?

[Triple Seven]

Personally I find these games to be extremely boring.

[Clayonite]

And I just found my non-queer soulmate~ I find the GTA games so overhyped its silly. I quite liked the 2D ones, but the 3D games are so full of bugs it leaves me puzzled how the market are just willing to accept that. Its pure lazy by Rockstar! Arguably its quantity over quality, I suppose. But on the other hand, you have just as big games such as Final Fantasy, Metal Gear, Resident Evil and Devil May Cry, which have a much higher standard in the visuals.
I hope for the sake of the GTA fans that GTA IV doesnt have invisible walls, cars falling through the ground and spikes flying out everywhere.
I know you have a Wii, mate~ Go with No More Heroes instead. ;)

[Pheo]

Im a little hyped about it, depends really from what ive heard it seems pretty good, but i havnt decided yet if im going to buy it or not, but i guess i will buy it when its released, due to san andreas (who cant love that game?), i never really like Vice city or III, or the mini versions VC stories/LIB Stories, they sucked.

I havnt seen anything to intresest me yet, but not much has been released about it.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

Well Sure the 3d games can be buggy, but I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

Final Fantasy has freedom in it thats true, but if Im honest I was a fan of the series up until ten, 1-9 were good, from 10 onwards Ive not liked them as much. The stories werent as good and I prefered the turn-based combat.

MGS,RE,DMC dont offer the freedom of gta though.

Graphics doesnt really bother me that much. I like GTA for the freedom it offers and the fun it gives me. Il buy gtaIV and will have fun driving about Liberty city.

Clay- is no more heroes a sequel to killer 7 and if so would you recommend playing killer 7 1st?

[Skeksis]

No More Heroes isnt a sequal to Killer 7. There is a similar art style to be found between both games though.

While I dont mind Grand Theft Auto I think we could have done without some of the games that has tried to emulate the same gameplay GTA has.

[Triple Seven]

(...) I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

[HumanIce]

Im waiting for a LOT of games, this is maybe the nr.26 on the list or something.
I dont enjoy the GTA games that much like I do with Tekken, Smash Bros and so on..
(...) I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?
the GTA games are sometimes fun.. but it seems they somehow always get boring in the end.. I find every GTA game to be boring but they were great when they came out. GTA4 will be a great experience the first month.. but it will get boring quickly.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

(...) I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

The freedom to do whatever you want, I can choose to go around shooting NPCs sure but I also have the option to just drive around the large cities, try to find easter eggs, find all the possible vehicles in the game. do the story missions or do side-missions or just mess about. Maybe I feel like racing around the streets to get the cops on my back then try and avoid being arrested by using the manuverbility of my bike to use alleys to avoid them.

there is just 7 things I can do whats wrong with freedom like that?

[Triple Seven]

(...) I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

The freedom to do whatever you want,

[1] I can choose to go around shooting NPCs sure
[2] but I also have the option to just drive around the large cities,
[3] try to find easter eggs, find all the possible vehicles in the game.
[4] do the story missions or do side-missions
[5] or just mess about.
[6] Maybe I feel like racing around the streets to get the cops on my back then try and avoid being arrested by using the manuverbility of my bike to use alleys to avoid them.

there is just 7 things I can do whats wrong with freedom like that?


- find hidden objects/goodies
- do missions and sidemissions

>> most games offer that, its hardly unique


- shoot NPCs
- drive around
(> drive around and shoot NPCs (the police))
(> just mess about? - sounds like driving around and shooting NPCs)

>>> The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

7 relatively unique things? Hardly. Definately not 7, and the only relatively unique thing I can see is a large, impersonal, generic world you traverse in order to do things that arent unique in any way.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

I have never claimed that any of those reasons were unique.

I gave my opinion on reasons why I like the game, youre free to disagree with that.

To me I like the series and think it offers freedom to how you play, not forcing you to follow the story.

I like story driven games as well I like Metal gear and final fantasy and resident evil.

To me GTA offers a change of pace. I like the freedom it offers just as I enjoy the freedom most final fantasy games offers.

I like the choice between following a story or just doing what I feel like.

It is possible to go around shooting NPCs but I have the choice not to.

[billybandit]

(...) I find the freedom of what you can do fun.

The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

The freedom to do whatever you want,

[1] I can choose to go around shooting NPCs sure
[2] but I also have the option to just drive around the large cities,
[3] try to find easter eggs, find all the possible vehicles in the game.
[4] do the story missions or do side-missions
[5] or just mess about.
[6] Maybe I feel like racing around the streets to get the cops on my back then try and avoid being arrested by using the manuverbility of my bike to use alleys to avoid them.

there is just 7 things I can do whats wrong with freedom like that?


- find hidden objects/goodies
- do missions and sidemissions

>> most games offer that, its hardly unique


- shoot NPCs
- drive around
(> drive around and shoot NPCs (the police))
(> just mess about? - sounds like driving around and shooting NPCs)

>>> The freedom to do what exactly? To move around in an impersonal, generic world using equally constituted NPCs and objects as targets?

7 relatively unique things? Hardly. Definately not 7, and the only relatively unique thing I can see is a large, impersonal, generic world you traverse in order to do things that arent unique in any way.



The GTA games offer you as much freedom as you can get in any game. You can go pretty much anywhere from the outset, you can use a stupidly big variety of vehicles (cars, bikes, trucks, bicycles, helicopters, jetpacks, speedboats, aircraft, quadbikes, tanks, emergency vehicles...). There are shooting missions, there are race missions, there are search/collection missions/sub-sections (hidden item collections really mean something in San Andreas - the map being as massive and varied as it is, to find all the hidden items means youve actually put time into the game). San Andreas features socialising sub-sections - dancing, pool, romance quests. Gang warfares, burglaries, car modification, body building, character customisation, sky diving, multiplayer missions. Massive worlds, with all air, land and sea to explore. If you think thats not freedom... well youre clearly wrong. Its not all driving and shooting around generic worlds (youre also forgetting that its GTA that made these generic in the first place) and theyre not generic anyway, theyre designed to be both believeable but fun to navigate and explore. The only reason the games are no longer unique is because so many other developed have tried to mimmick the ideas and most have failed miserably. Theres even humour and storylines thrown in for good measure - theyre not serious and theyre not supposed to be taken seriously, but you shouldnt hold that against them.

You may not like the games 777, but that doesnt mean theyre not good (if I was a developer Id be delighted if you hated my games). The freedom offered is absolutely brilliant, I find just cruising around offers more fun than pretty much any other game offers in their main offerings. GTA III and San Andreas were easily two of the best games ever developed, GTA III for how massive a breakthrough it was, and SA for being a truly awesome expansion on the idea (Vice City never really grabbed me, but it was good).

Im really looking forward to this - the previews are glowing, its still developed by Rockstar North (who really have never put a foot wrong) and... its a GTA game. Ive ordered the Special Edition with all the extras, that package looks sweet as anything. Bring on April!

[James Mitchell]

Triple just lay off and stop derailing the topic. Sure, you may not like it but other people do. Deal with it

AS for me, Ive actually pre-ordered the sports bag version, though Im not as into it as other people are. Im still tossing up between which version to get, but besides that, Im kinda looking forward to see what Rockstar does with their RAGE engine which was brilliant with Table Tennis. A bit of a disappointment that the game isnt actually set in a NEW city but Im sure Ill be able to get over that.

Theres other games out there I prefer, but I am kind of looking forward to it.

[Triple Seven]

You may not like the games 777, but that doesnt mean theyre not good (if I was a developer Id be delighted if you hated my games). The freedom offered is absolutely brilliant, I find just cruising around offers more fun than pretty much any other game offers in their main offerings.

Relax. Youre free to like basically any game you want to. Much like Im free to dislike basically any game that I dont like. So yeah, I find what you refer to as freedom here absolutely boring. Freedom of movement alone is hardly anything that I get excited about. And those kinds of missions are nothing but shallow.
That being said, I found Canis Canem Edit (Bully) to be relatively good. That is in part because the world presented was not as bland and generic.

Despite all that I respect your opinion. Why wouldnt I. Sadly it seems that the same cant be said about you. However, Im getting used to it and I care less and less about it and subsequently about your opinion as such.


As for you, James, if thats derailing the topic then any reply had to be either yes or no in order to not derail the topic (- sadly there is no poll). Although it is, of course, fine to post a whole lot of stuff if the answer to the authors question is yes (or kind of looking forward to it) - which youve nicely illustrated.
Im perfectly fine with people enjoying the games (also see above). Im merely trying to understand where theyre coming from. Thank you for your thoughtful suggestions, though. I especially appreciate the friendly and encouraging tone.

[dante213]

due to san andreas (who cant love that game?)

I hate San Andreas, more then i hate all the other GTA games. I just cant figure out what people find so enjoyable about them. Personally I find the cruising around, uselessly slaughtering NPCs to be quite boring, and the stories where never anything to write home about.

[James Mitchell]

I especially appreciate the friendly and encouraging tone.
Anytime.

[billybandit]

Relax. Youre free to like basically any game you want to. Much like Im free to dislike basically any game that I dont like. So yeah, I find what you refer to as freedom here absolutely boring. Freedom of movement alone is hardly anything that I get excited about. And those kinds of missions are nothing but shallow.
That being said, I found Canis Canem Edit (Bully) to be relatively good. That is in part because the world presented was not as bland and generic.

Despite all that I respect your opinion. Why wouldnt I. Sadly it seems that the same cant be said about you. However, Im getting used to it and I care less and less about it and subsequently about your opinion as such.

I respect your opinion is just a phrase, you clearly dont mean it as you didnt take on board anything that I said. And to try and turn it back on me is pitiful, I cant believe youre a moderator, its pathetic.

Maybe you find the games boring, fair enough. But that doesnt mean they dont offer freedom. Thats like saying I dont like Mario. It doesnt offer mushrooms, turtles or coins.

What you want in a game is just cinematics and visuals. Game-wise, thats shallow.

[DisturbedbyDeth356]

san andreas had great freedom, u could sky dive and parachute, fly a plane or helicopter, mountainbiking, off road racing, drive a tank, demolition derby, boat racing, jetpack, fight the police, fight the army, gamble, car tuning, be a fireman, be a cop, be a taxi, etc.... thats freedom. comments about no freedom and boredom coming from ppl who enjoy such games as megaman which involves moving left 2 right button bashing fire, and also devil may cry which involves, go into room, kill everything, go into other room, kill everything, etc. also its a scottish based games company which is closer 2 home

[dante213]

and comments of love for the series coming from someone who cant even spell their name correctly?

[billybandit]

And you failed to notice, despite his avatar, that hes a fan of Megadeth?

[insult removed; 777]. Check your punctuation too.


Im assuming you mean - maybe in different terminology - the GTA series are not the thinking mans games? And what exactly is?

[James Mitchell]

I agree in that in comparison to other games, GTA may not be a thinking mans game. But honestly, who cares? It really depends on the mood you are in. There isnt a lot of strategy to the game itself, though its still somewhat fun (until it gets boring which is usually my case / stance on this type of game)

Although, Billy,
What you want in a game is just cinematics and visuals. Game-wise, thats shallow.
Definitely a trend Ive picked up on with 777 and I must agree that seems to be his main concerns. Nice one for pointing it out

[Nocturnal Stillness]

I agree in that in comparison to other games, GTA may not be a thinking mans game. But honestly, who cares? It really depends on the mood you are in. There isnt a lot of strategy to the game itself, though its still somewhat fun (until it gets boring which is usually my case / stance on this type of game)

I agree with that, as gta does get boring after awhile but can still be fun.

Final Fantasy and Metal Gear are both great series , but after Ive completed the game I dont go back to it as often as I do after completing a gta.

I like it because it doesnt take itself seriously as is (to me anyway) fun to drive/race about [in fact my favourite past time in gta is trying to outrun the cops and the army at higher levels]

Here is a question, do you think its possible for a sandbox game to offer a deep and involving story? Or do they need to be shallow to work in such a game.

[James Mitchell]

Personally Ive yet to find such a game. No More Heroes came close but that isnt quite a deep story but its not exactly light either. Its also not 100% sandbox either. Saints Row had a terrible story too. Come to think of it, all the GTAs had not so great storylines, but the atmosphere, particularly that of Vice Citys, was nothing short of excellent.

[bondey6678]

I think we could have done without some of the games that has tried to emulate the same gameplay GTA has.

True Grime - Street Cleaners :P,they also take liberties on Driv3r aswell making Tanner on your hit list in the Mini games, then Driver responded by making Timmy Vercimellis

Wonder who GTA IV will rip on.... Saints Row?, Godfather, Scarface...

[Triple Seven]

I respect your opinion is just a phrase, you clearly dont mean it as you didnt take on board anything that I said. And to try and turn it back on me is pitiful, I cant believe youre a moderator, its pathetic.

Maybe you find the games boring, fair enough. But that doesnt mean they dont offer freedom. Thats like saying I dont like Mario. It doesnt offer mushrooms, turtles or coins.

What you want in a game is just cinematics and visuals. Game-wise, thats shallow.

The point here is that I consider the gameplay elements youve mentioned to be boring. With that statement I made previously I addressed virtually all the elements youve mentioned. Stating that you as a developer would be delightedif I hated your game, by choice of words, implies disrespect for my opinion. Theres nothing to turn around. Im not going to call you, or your post, pathetic either. Theres a chance that I may have missed something. Nonetheless, youve lost some more of my respect. But then again, chances are you find that delightful, too.
Of course considering something to be boring is rather subjective. What may be boring to me may be interesting to someone else. I didnt claim there wasnt any freedom at all (see my previous posts and below).

Like Ive said, freedom to move around or, more generally, to do boring things (see above) is pointless. Personally I would define freedom as the possibility to make choices that significantly and meaningfully affect the games world, its objects and (simulated) living beings. Complex consequences. Without that, freedom isnt much more than a(n advanced) physics simulation: I wouldnt be interesting in playing around with physical objects (e.g. barrels) just for the sake of it (which is something I find as boring the options youve mentioned in regards to GTA).
This, in part, comes close to some of Peter Molyneuxs visions (plant a tree, carve something into it, let it grow). A more sophisticated example would be that a NPC you hurt in the game escapes and returns later on to ambush you. Or that he knows a store owner who subsequently wont sell stuff to you anymore. Or you help someone out who later returns the favor. Or the possibility to affect the development of a community in various ways. Thats meaningful freedom. Freedom to actually shape the world and characters (including the protagonist) youre playing in. Game-wise that isnt shallow. It evidently goes beyond what you seem to refer to as cinematics and visuals. There should be deeper possibilities and consequences than merely if I drive over random NPC Nr. 112 hell be dead and the police will track me down. Game-wise, that is shallow. In my opinion ts quality over quantity (by repitition). I prefer the more complex freedom Mass Effect offers at times (which doesnt even come too close to the visions previously mentioned) over the kind of freedom GTA games (so far) offered constantly throughout the game. (Recent examples would also be The Witcher and what Denis Dyack is trying to do with Too Human.)
As you may have noticed all this clearly depends on what a person expects from a game (and specifically), from the freedom offered in a game; and to some degree on what a persons defines as playing/videogame. Some people are happy if they have the freedom to decide - to influence - on what Koopas head they jump on. Thats fine. There is no right or wrong in absolute terms. I respect that kind of opinion, and at the same time am interested in the reasons behind it. Especially when I think highly of the person in question.

[Progenitor]

777, I dont know if youre aware of this, but there is actually a game that features all the freedom you just mentioned. Its called LIFE. Last time I checked, games were designed as a form of entertainment and escapism, to escape from the relative mediocrity and mundane aspects of day to day life and do all the things that you otherwise wouldnt be able to do. Yet you want a game that allows you to escape the real world, by creating a simulated REAL WORLD.
Ysee this is partly the reason I cant fathom anyone who likes games like the SIMS because its just mind numbingly dull.
Now, Im not a fan of GTA games on the principle of ethics. I dont like the idea of being a criminal who comes out on top....I detest criminals and dont like to see them lionised in such a way. May sound a little 1950s, but thats how I roll. I have played GTA3, Vice City and San Andreas. 3 I quit playing after about 2 missions. Vice City I played until I got access to the helicopters and then I just flew around like a nut. Same with San Andreas. I played until I had the airfield and all the planes to go with it and just screwed around in the jumpjet.
If you dont like the games, fine, its your opinion.......however, you claim to want to understand where those who do like it are coming from, but you pick apart every reason they have for liking the games.....seems a little deceptive to me.
Anyways, Im not really aching to play GTA 4, but I will, until I get access to something that flies.

[Triple Seven]

777, I dont know if youre aware of this, but there is actually a game that features all the freedom you just mentioned. Its called LIFE. Last time I checked, games were designed as a form of entertainment and escapism, to escape from the relative mediocrity and mundane aspects of day to day life and do all the things that you otherwise wouldnt be able to do. Yet you want a game that allows you to escape the real world, by creating a simulated REAL WORLD.
Ysee this is partly the reason I cant fathom anyone who likes games like the SIMS because its just mind numbingly dull.

Oh come on. Its hardly life. Lifes way more complex than anything Ive mentioned. And obviously different at the same time. I havent seen too many demons, magicians etc. so far. You wouldnt ask people to stop reading (fictional) stories and to stop watching movies with the same (implied) suggestion, would you? Also the range of things one would actually do is limited in real life - due to severe consequences and (personal) risks. If you screw up in a game not much harm is done and you can try again. Being able to do (and experience) things that you wouldnt be able to do otherwise is exactly what it is about. That doesnt mean that there cant be moral and intellectual depth and complexity, which can enhance the experience in worlds full of magic, too. Take Metal Gear, for instance. Even without the possibility to make such kinds of decisions it still is (at least in part) the moral and intellectual depth that makes (certain) games of the series exceptional - without them being a simulated real world (e.g. Vamp).
While you clearly misinterpretated what Ive been saying I can agree with you at the same time, to say the least. I dont feel fascinated by games like the Sims, or MMORPGs). Nonetheless, I think I can see where theyre coming from. Unlike real life the Sims offers an unprecedented level of control over a (fictional) persons life. Here its about control and perfection.
Id even go further and say that I dont play sports games. Lifes better than the simulation. Much like you consider the options the Sims provide dull I consider the options and consequences (> freedom) provided in GTA games dull. The reason for my critical questions is based on the content of your last sentence, too. I just cant fathom anyone who [extremely] likes [the kind of freedom provided in] games like [GTA] because [I personally dont see whats so great about it]. I can understand what people like about the Sims and I would like to be able to understand what people like about the freedom in GTA. No need to get personal.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

777 you said you want to understand why people like the freedom, yet I gave you reasons why I liked it and your reply made it seem like my opinion was wrong, perhaps Im misreading your posts and in that case you can show me what you mean and Ill apologise.

@progenitor

youve stated a valid opinion based on morals and not liking playing a criminal, youve also stated one of the things I like about gta sure the main missions are always doing criminal activities, the player has the choice to do other non-criminal activities ie exploring, the taxi and ambulance missions, and just messing around with the varying vehicles.

it would be a nice option in a future gta to choose which side you want to be on ie criminal/cop, but I suppose games such as Fable, Oblivion and Mass Effect already offer the good/evil option with a much better storyline.

[Triple Seven]

777 you said you want to understand why people like the freedom, yet I gave you reasons why I liked it and your reply made it seem like my opinion was wrong, perhaps Im misreading your posts and in that case you can show me what you mean and Ill apologise.

No need to apologize. You didnt do anything wrong. In fact, its rather been me, I wasnt precise enough and that post could very well have sounded harsh. Id like to apologize for that.

You provided a list of (selected) things which the player is free to do (or not to do). What I possibly didnt make clear in my response is that I dont see whats exceptional about the options the game provides. I understand what one can do in the game, however I still dont understand how that leads to so much hype, excitement and ultimately the status GTA enjoys.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

777 you said you want to understand why people like the freedom, yet I gave you reasons why I liked it and your reply made it seem like my opinion was wrong, perhaps Im misreading your posts and in that case you can show me what you mean and Ill apologise.

No need to apologize. You didnt do anything wrong. In fact, its rather been me, I wasnt precise enough and that post could very well have sounded harsh. Id like to apologize for that.

You provided a list of (selected) things which the player is free to do (or not to do). What I possibly didnt make clear in my response is that I dont see whats exceptional about the options the game provides. I understand what one can do in the game, however I still dont understand how that leads to so much hype, excitement and ultimately the status GTA enjoys.

Well to answer those questions from my opinion is this. I dont find the options exceptional, I just find the option to do what you want to be nice.

Dont get me wrong I like playing the good guy I like Final fantasy and metal gear and when playing games like Mass Effect and Fable I tend to follow the good path, but I like the available option of being bad.

The fact your a criminal in gta is a nice change to the flood of games where you play the heroes. The game can be overhyped thats true so can other games, Halo is a perfect example its hyped up to be an amazing game yet imo its an average shooter thats only good when played in co-op.

[Triple Seven]

Dont get me wrong. Im not referring to the story line. Its about the sandbox elements, the freedom alongside the main campaign.

[The Spirit]

Triple Seven you just have insulted a great member of the community Billybandit. Billy is making sense and your not & going way off topic. Many previous members which were all oldtimers in the previous version of the forums have had problems with you & many of them left due to your illogical reasons. Youve been warned many times by the members of the forums to keep a check on what you say, making no good excuses even threaghtning members, editing posts & so far youve deleted every track of yours.

Others Moderators seem to be fine. Your the only one causing problem since 2005? I assume its the year you joined in. If the Chopman hasnt taken any notice of you yet, which he cetainly hasnt in a long time. Oh well ..youll see when the members on this forums start to reduce.

Watch it Triple Seven we members do have the authority to make complains & we can throw you out of it if you keep on heading like this.


As for the topic I havent played any GTA games but the latest one has some shiny graphics and seems to be good too might check it out.

[Triple Seven]

If you feel the need to complain then by all means please do so. When youve made that decision and you have something substantial, please send a PM to one of the administrators, rather than post it in a forum topic. You have the best chances to come to a favorable result when you provide proof to back up individual claims. Youre less likely to succeed when you make vague allegations. If you consider the issue(s) in question to be relatively minor and you additionally think itd make sense to talk to me first you can decide to do so.
I wont take any of that personally, its your good right and it makes sense to check on moderators, in this case me.

[Progenitor]

777, I dont know if youre aware of this, but there is actually a game that features all the freedom you just mentioned. Its called LIFE. Last time I checked, games were designed as a form of entertainment and escapism, to escape from the relative mediocrity and mundane aspects of day to day life and do all the things that you otherwise wouldnt be able to do. Yet you want a game that allows you to escape the real world, by creating a simulated REAL WORLD.
Ysee this is partly the reason I cant fathom anyone who likes games like the SIMS because its just mind numbingly dull.

Oh come on. Its hardly life. Lifes way more complex than anything Ive mentioned. And obviously different at the same time. I havent seen too many demons, magicians etc. so far. You wouldnt ask people to stop reading (fictional) stories and to stop watching movies with the same (implied) suggestion, would you? Also the range of things one would actually do is limited in real life - due to severe consequences and (personal) risks. If you screw up in a game not much harm is done and you can try again. Being able to do (and experience) things that you wouldnt be able to do otherwise is exactly what it is about. That doesnt mean that there cant be moral and intellectual depth and complexity, which can enhance the experience in worlds full of magic, too. Take Metal Gear, for instance. Even without the possibility to make such kinds of decisions it still is (at least in part) the moral and intellectual depth that makes (certain) games of the series exceptional - without them being a simulated real world (e.g. Vamp).
While you clearly misinterpretated what Ive been saying I can agree with you at the same time, to say the least. I dont feel fascinated by games like the Sims, or MMORPGs). Nonetheless, I think I can see where theyre coming from. Unlike real life the Sims offers an unprecedented level of control over a (fictional) persons life. Here its about control and perfection.
Id even go further and say that I dont play sports games. Lifes better than the simulation. Much like you consider the options the Sims provide dull I consider the options and consequences (> freedom) provided in GTA games dull. The reason for my critical questions is based on the content of your last sentence, too. I just cant fathom anyone who [extremely] likes [the kind of freedom provided in] games like [GTA] because [I personally dont see whats so great about it]. I can understand what people like about the Sims and I would like to be able to understand what people like about the freedom in GTA. No need to get personal.

Does seem to be a case of crossed wires, and please, dont misunderstand....Im not making anything personal, sorry if it came accross that way. It simply seemed to me that the idea you put accross was a simulation of real life, with the cause/effect, action/consequence arc to it. But I do see your point. There is a greater degree of restraint in real life. I also think youve hit the nail on the head with the reason people like these games. CONTROL. I think its a simple case of feeling in control of events, whereas real life presents the problem of events controlling you. Perhaps thats all there is too it. A catharsis in terms of controlling someone elses life if you feel out of control of your own. Im no expert, but it seems as viable a reason as any.

[HumanIce]

been away from this forum for a while.. anyway,
And you failed to notice, despite his avatar, that hes a fan of Megadeth?

[insult removed; 777]. Check your punctuation too.
Megadeth is a great band, and its MEGA DETH, yeah.. thats what the band is called. death is just wrong.
if you dont like that band, you sure dont like REAL music at all..

[Birkin]

Honestly, Im not looking forward to it.

DMC4, RE5 and MGS4 [are significantly better; modified because of offensive content/profanity -- 777]. GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

I dont like GTA because I crave to kill in a video game. Also in GTA its possible to do taxi and ambulance missions which you help people as well as just drive about, not everyone plays GTA just to go around killing everyone.

[billybandit]

Honestly, Im not looking forward to it.

DMC4, RE5 and MGS4 [are significantly better; modified because of offensive content/profanity -- 777]. GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

Uh huh, and what do you do in DMC4, RE5 and MGS4... well I suppose you can choose not to kill in MGS4 but still.

Also, that is a stupid comparison.

And also, youre totally wrong and stupid.

[bondey6678]

777, I dont know if youre aware of this, but there is actually a game that features all the freedom you just mentioned. Its called LIFE. Last time I checked, games were designed as a form of entertainment and escapism, to escape from the relative mediocrity and mundane aspects of day to day life and do all the things that you otherwise wouldnt be able to do. Yet you want a game that allows you to escape the real world, by creating a simulated REAL WORLD.
Ysee this is partly the reason I cant fathom anyone who likes games like the SIMS because its just mind numbingly dull.
Now, Im not a fan of GTA games on the principle of ethics. I dont like the idea of being a criminal who comes out on top....I detest criminals and dont like to see them lionised in such a way. May sound a little 1950s, but thats how I roll. I have played GTA3, Vice City and San Andreas. 3 I quit playing after about 2 missions. Vice City I played until I got access to the helicopters and then I just flew around like a nut. Same with San Andreas. I played until I had the airfield and all the planes to go with it and just screwed around in the jumpjet.
If you dont like the games, fine, its your opinion.......however, you claim to want to understand where those who do like it are coming from, but you pick apart every reason they have for liking the games.....seems a little deceptive to me.
Anyways, Im not really aching to play GTA 4, but I will, until I get access to something that flies.

Life isnt a game.... Dont be moronic, If life is a game then Im the Pope...because I used the Konami Code...

[Skeksis]

Life isnt a game.... Dont be moronic, If life is a game then Im the Pope...because I used the Konami Code...

Instead of Hot Coffee? lol (what? the opportunity was too good to miss) :lol:

[Birkin]

GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

I dont like GTA because I crave to kill in a video game. Also in GTA its possible to do taxi and ambulance missions which you help people as well as just drive about, not everyone plays GTA just to go around killing everyone.

Then I honestly dont see whats so fun about it. Just roaming around?

Honestly, Im not looking forward to it.

DMC4, RE5 and MGS4 [are significantly better; modified because of offensive content/profanity -- 777]. GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

Uh huh, and what do you do in DMC4, RE5 and MGS4... well I suppose you can choose not to kill in MGS4 but still.

Also, that is a stupid comparison.

And also, youre totally wrong and stupid.

Of course you kill in those games, but unlike GTA, they are actually driven by a spot-on awesome storyline, where GTA is about doing missions and keepin it gangsta.

[Nocturnal Stillness]

GTA is only for people craving to kill in a video game.

I dont like GTA because I crave to kill in a video game. Also in GTA its possible to do taxi and ambulance missions which you help people as well as just drive about, not everyone plays GTA just to go around killing everyone.

Then I honestly dont see whats so fun about it. Just roaming around?


Doing the missions, sub-missions and roaming around. When playing gta I only kill who I have to in the storyline, unless its a second playthrough then I might decide to go postal but even then I prefer outrunning the police and army :d

[billybandit]

Of course you kill in those games, but unlike GTA, they are actually driven by a spot-on awesome storyline, where GTA is about doing missions and keepin it gangsta.

I suppose thats what it boils down to - if story is an important element in your gaming then GTA could be somewhat of a letdown. But I see the GTA games as a sort of ace-of-all-trades - foolproof and instantly accessible gameplay with bags of variety, humorous and likeable characters and just enough story to string the missions together with. If I was hankering stealth, meaningful story or something more focussed then Id play something else

The roaming around element isnt for anyone, maybe Im too easily pleased but I absolutely loved finding new places (particularly in San Andreas) like deserts, rooftops to skydive from, little villages to wander and one of my favourites - spending time getting to the top of a mountain to find a new bicycle at the top. I cant quite put my finger on it but Rockstar North certainly seem to know how to do it right. But yeah, its not for everyone. As with everything (except for oxygen, water and food matter)

[Progenitor]

777, I dont know if youre aware of this, but there is actually a game that features all the freedom you just mentioned. Its called LIFE. Last time I checked, games were designed as a form of entertainment and escapism, to escape from the relative mediocrity and mundane aspects of day to day life and do all the things that you otherwise wouldnt be able to do. Yet you want a game that allows you to escape the real world, by creating a simulated REAL WORLD.
Ysee this is partly the reason I cant fathom anyone who likes games like the SIMS because its just mind numbingly dull.
Now, Im not a fan of GTA games on the principle of ethics. I dont like the idea of being a criminal who comes out on top....I detest criminals and dont like to see them lionised in such a way. May sound a little 1950s, but thats how I roll. I have played GTA3, Vice City and San Andreas. 3 I quit playing after about 2 missions. Vice City I played until I got access to the helicopters and then I just flew around like a nut. Same with San Andreas. I played until I had the airfield and all the planes to go with it and just screwed around in the jumpjet.
If you dont like the games, fine, its your opinion.......however, you claim to want to understand where those who do like it are coming from, but you pick apart every reason they have for liking the games.....seems a little deceptive to me.
Anyways, Im not really aching to play GTA 4, but I will, until I get access to something that flies.

Life isnt a game.... Dont be moronic, If life is a game then Im the Pope...because I used the Konami Code...

Oh for the love of christ, did IQs just drop sharply while the forum relocated? Its called SARCASM YOU DOLT. Of course life isnt a game, but clearly the concept of mild sarcasm is lost upon you so any further attempt to explain would no doubt result in the spontaneous combustion of your frontal lobe:dead:

[XEVIOUS]

I wouldnt say I was hyped about it. I will be buying it though and will probably enjoy every minute spent playing it. lol

[Birkin]

Of course you kill in those games, but unlike GTA, they are actually driven by a spot-on awesome storyline, where GTA is about doing missions and keepin it gangsta.

I suppose thats what it boils down to - if story is an important element in your gaming then GTA could be somewhat of a letdown. But I see the GTA games as a sort of ace-of-all-trades - foolproof and instantly accessible gameplay with bags of variety, humorous and likeable characters and just enough story to string the missions together with. If I was hankering stealth, meaningful story or something more focussed then Id play something else

The roaming around element isnt for anyone, maybe Im too easily pleased but I absolutely loved finding new places (particularly in San Andreas) like deserts, rooftops to skydive from, little villages to wander and one of my favourites - spending time getting to the top of a mountain to find a new bicycle at the top. I cant quite put my finger on it but Rockstar North certainly seem to know how to do it right. But yeah, its not for everyone. As with everything (except for oxygen, water and food matter)

You sir, are correct. It all comes down to personal preference. Lets put this topic away.

[Charon]

Dont like it i have tested all GTA from PSX days.
I prefer games like Resident Evil, Devil May Cry, God of War, Soul Reaver etc
I dont like games without fantasy, Demons, Swords, Magic and all that staff
and the Color Profile and the GFX style in GTA is very annoying, for me at least.

[Progenitor]

I think this all boils down to a case of to each his own. Everyone cant like the same stuff, where would the variety be?

By the way, Id just like to say, Charon.....awesome name.....the Ferryman on the river Styx....niceb)

[Nasu]

OFCOURSE! Im a big time fan of GTA, so Im hoping this wont be as bad as San Andreas.

[Viper]

Ill buy it, then be brutely dissapointed as its the same as the others except a couple new bits.

When will I learn.

[billybandit]

OFCOURSE! Im a big time fan of GTA, so Im hoping this wont be as bad as San Andreas.

Can I just ask, besides maybe the cultural element, what didnt you like about San Andreas? Personally I think it was the most interesting and refined of the series, but Im interested in what youve said


Ill buy it, then be brutely dissapointed as its the same as the others except a couple new bits.

When will I learn.

Read the previews, this is not just the sort of Vice City update (new vehicles, settings, minor refinements) - its obvious that Rockstar have thought about a lot developing this new game. I just hope it doesnt stray too far from what made III - San Andreas great

[Nocturnal Stillness]

well its nearly time for gtaIV to be released. So I thought Id re-post in this topic.

Official x-box 360 magazine has reviewed it and give it 10 out of 10 and say its a must buy.

I going to mention a quote from the article,

Its got a world you believe in, a cast you care about and a script stuffed with brilliant moments

Im still planning on buying it, has anyone cancelled their pre-orders? or anyone else decided to pre-order? Ive not pre-ordered it but Ill just go and pick up a copy if I cant I can wait till I can,

[Spike 74]

I wasnt going to get it but now I am

[aviran_naor]

To be quite honest with you, Grand Theft Auto doesn t excite me anymore.

I admit the game series was very good and successful but to me it seemed some repetitive I guess, I mean I know GTA franchise have its original as well as new stuff in each game but its still somehow brought up to me as something I did before, a whole lot.

When GTA 3 came out I was like WOW it was a very great decision to bring back the series and revive it in 3D for the first time at that time and of course it worked, but nowadays there are a lot of sequels and it indeed did it marked. As far as for the new game, I wonder what new stuff they can bring but either way I bet it can be taken repetitive once again by me.

The last GTA game I played was San Andres and from there I stopped (didn t played much too), who knows perhaps some day I can change my mind somehow and go back to that fame which is called Grand Theft Auto. :?:


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