GTA 4: Why is it Not Popular?

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GTA 4 is the eleventh title in the Grand Theft Auto series and the first game in the HD universe of the series. Released in 2006, this Rockstar North development has subsequently been awarded the Gaming World Record of the most successful Entertainment Launch of All Time, and has received numerous other awards and accolades. However among the gaming community, this game doesn’t have usual mention. Most Grand Theft Auto players skip GTA IV in the series.

In this article, we will delve more into this topic and get to know why GTA IV is underrated.

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GTA 4 is an underrated gem

Optimization

It is said that the best things in life are always underrated. Grand Theft Auto 4 is unfortunately not properly optimized for PC gaming. This is partly the problem that major games face. This happens due to the advancing technology and technological advancement. Many people also complain about the driving physics in the game. Even though the game was released in 2008, the physics engine and the technology used for the game is incredible if considered the time it was released and the resources that were available. According to GTA players, GTA IV has better graphics than GTA V which was released 5 years after GTA IV.

Graphics

Grand Theft Auto 4 was the first game in the HD universe and Rockstar decided to end the 3D saga storyline there and hence, Grand Theft Auto 4 was an initial turn down for fans who liked to see the storyline being continued in some other year in some other city. With the storyline ending with the events of Grand Theft Auto 3 based in 2001, fans were speculating their favorite characters like Tommy Vercetti, CJ, to have an appearance in this 2008 game.

Moreover, Grand Theft Auto 4 is a return to Liberty City, which is the same city as for Grand Theft Auto 3.

Players also complain about the tone and the color scheme of Grand Theft Auto 4 to be very blue, or dull and depressing. Even though comparatively, Grand Theft Auto IV has more natural touch than Grand Theft Auto V. The physics engine of Grand Theft Auto 4 is developed by Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE) along with Euphoria animation engine. Hence the development is much better than any other game. Some players also noticed that the physics of the cars, the damage mechanics and small details are very minute and very well done despite being released in 2008. With its competitor being GTA V, GTA 4 gets more credits for the graphics.

Also read: GTA 5 event week for June 24th, 2021

Storyline

The storyline of Grand Theft Auto 4 is very heart wrenching and believable. Some players argue that the three protagonists of GTA 4 have no separate characters, meaning that their lives and their aim is just one same thing; peace in their life, which is unlike the three protagonists of Grand Theft Auto 5. This has made the three protagonists of Grand Theft Auto 5 to be more famous and their own fanbase.

Moreover, the story also goes in a very sad undertone. Nico, the protagonist has been shown having a rough start and very heartbreaking moments in the story.

Some players do not like how the story of Grand Theft Auto 4 is very related in some real life aspects. One of the key features of a game to be popular is the fictional and virtuality of the game; something that is not present in the real world. This makes players a little uninterested in playing the game.

Despite having a relatable storyline, Rockstar is praised for bringing in something real and imaginable to the table with GTA 4. Grand Theft Auto 4 is an incredible game and is loved by the true fans of the Grand Theft Auto series.

Also read: GTA 4 VS. GTA 5. Which Game do Gamers prefer?