Grand Theft Auto IV rocks — but for adults only

By Marc Saltzman

Let’s cut to the chase. Because of the graphic violence, sexual themes and foul language, Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto (GTA) IV is not for kids, tweens or even young teenagers.

But this Mature-rated adventure — which can be best described as an interactive episode of The Sopranos — is easily the best GTA yet. The incredible depth, memorable characters and online features are unsurpassed.

Intro to GTA IV

Playable on the Microsoft Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 3, Grand Theft Auto IV slips you into the shoes of Niko Bellic, a tough Eastern European immigrant who discovers America’s streets aren’t paved in gold.

Instead, he must make money and connections in the criminal underworld to keep afloat.

Basics of the game

Players roam around a fully realized 3-D city, carjacking vehicles, playing mini-games such as bowling, pool and arcade, or buying items from shops.

But it’s the seedy missions that unravel the lengthy single-player story. These might involve retrieving stolen money, evading police cruisers or taking out a drug dealer.

What’s new in GTA IV?

Aside from high-definition graphics, more hand-to-hand combat and optional in-car GPS navigation, the biggest new feature is multiplayer support for up to 16 online gamers. This is available in both intense cooperative or competitive modes. Xbox 360 gamers will be able to download bonus missions later this year.

For mature players who enjoy this kind of intense gaming, Grand Theft Auto IV is one wild urban adventure.