Quote:

Got questions about Grand Theft Auto IV? Wee've maybe got some of the answers! In an effort to address some of the frequently asked questions about the game, its two console versions and the particular quirks of each, wee're compiling a handy reference guide which wee hope you find informative. If your question isn't answered, ask in the comments and wee'll hunt down an answer for you. Wee're trying our best to avoid spoilers, so some questions may go unanswered in the interest of letting you discover on your own. On with the questions...

How's the game? Any good?
Yes, yes it is. Check out our GTA IV review. It's spoiler-free and almost totally free of "the biases"!

Should I get the PlayStation or Xbox 360 version?
That's up to you. They're nearly identical and it's hard to go wrong with either version. Wee found the feature set to be better on the 360, but the PS3 holds up a bit better technically. Check out our PS3 versus 360 GTA IV comparison piece.

Is there split screen multiplayer? What about local multiplayer via LAN?
No, multiplayer for both systems is only online.

What's the deal with the PS3 hard drive install?
Installation is mandatory and kicks off when you insert the disc for the first time. Wee timed the 3.4 GB install at 7 minutes and 20 seconds.

Does the Xbox 360 have a hard drive installation?
No. There is no required installation, nor is there an optional one.

Can I remap the controls? Is there a control option for lefties?
Controls can't be remapped, but you can choose between Standard and Classic modes. Switching between the two will switch shoulder buttons for aiming and firing, among other changes. There is no special consideration for left handed players.

Is there an option for custom soundtracks?
No, the game's radio stations will have to suffice. Xbox 360 owners can still stream music from their hard drive or an iPod, but music played via the Xbox 360 Guide will continue to play over cell phone calls and cut scenes. If you're just going out for a stroll in GTA IV, it's still an option.

Does the PlayStation 3 version have any kind of achievements or accomplishments?
Outside of the standard stat tracking, which tallies up your kills, deaths, arrests, distance traveled, passed missions, stunt jumps, and other extracurricular activities, there are no Xbox Live Achievements-like features for the PS3.

How's the online performance?
Solid. Wee played for a pretty long, 16-player session before release via Xbox Live and were impressed. Microsoft says it's ramping up in anticipation of the release, adding hardware and hoping for smooth sailing. Wee have yet to go online with the PlayStation 3 version. Sony and Gamespy declined to comment about the status of the PlayStation Notwork.

How many players does the online mode support?
Up to sixteen players, depending on the game type.

Can I have sex with prostitutes?
In the game? Yes!

When can you trigger the "bullet-time"? Is it only while driving, or can you do it when walking around/shooting too?
You can switch to "bullet-time" during stunt jumps. While driving, hold B/Circle (or toggle to it using the Back/Select button) to enter the cinematic view. While in the cinematic view, click the left analog stick to toggle bullet time on and off.

Is there a huh, "normal" menu as in, not the cell phone one? For things like stats, audio, HUD and controller options, or just ofr ismply leaving the game paused? Or is this handled all in our cellphone?
Yes, when you press the Start button, you'll see options like Controls, Video, Audio and more.

How does the game end?
A list of credits scrolls vertically, with an extensive list of contributors.

Do helicopters have weapons?
Some do. Good luck hitting anything with the mini-guns! You might have better luck taking out foes with the chopper's blades.

Is ammunition only obtained by purchase? Are there (oh, the shame) cheats in this game?
Ammunition can be purchased from gun shops or one of your gun-running friends. It can also be collected from the corpses of your enemies. There are cheats, but wee've yet to use any.

Can Niko buy the different outfits wee see him wear or are they unlocked via missions?
Niko can buy new clothing, but some of Liberty City's clothing shops aren't immediately available to you.

Can you ride bicycles or skateboards?
Not that wee've seen. You also can't ride in shopping carts.

Can you swim, or do those damn sharks eat you?
Niko can swim.

Is there a saved film or replay feature? What about saved screenshots?
Nope! This is certainly something wee'd like to see added in a future game or update, as some of the player deaths are begging for a replay.

Are there different camera angles the player can select while on foot?
Sort of. The camera will pan further out or in, depending on your preference. While in vehicles or on the train, you can choose a cinematic camera mode, which is more cool than it is playable.

What if me and a couple friends just want to wreak havoc in Liberty City, no game modes, can wee do that?
Yes, there is a Free Mode in multiplayer that can be played however you want.

How does the save system work?
There is an autosave feature, which you can turn on or off. The game will save your progress after each successfully completed mission. You can also choose to save at any time in one of Niko's safehouses.

Does GTA IV have Feature X from Vice City or San Andreas?
Character customization isn't as deep as it was in San Andreas, so you won't be hitting the gym or tattoo parlor to shape your own unique Niko. You can't own property, fly planes, customize cars or parachute off of skyscrapers. In multiplayer, you can choose how your character looks, with options for hair, hats, tops, pants, glasses and more. As you progress in ranked online matches, you'll unlock new looks for your character.

source

Also, double you tee eff. Even the PSP had the option to play your songs through the radio. Not only did it make it so you could play while changing songs, but it felt cooler. You'd carjack someone, and find out they were listening to one of your all-time favorite songs? EFFIN A!  Man, that's stupid. They should have put it in!

yay!!!!!!!!!! this comes out tomorrow. can't wait to play it!

No custom soundtrack = Epic Fail

How could it score 100% without CST

i can't actually see what's the difference/added extra's apart from graphics and storyline and like online play compared to the previous GTA?? any1 care 2 explain? like i havent read any reviews or blurbs or anything like thatt..mainly because i havent been that bothered as i don't have a DAMN PS3 or 360!!!

but yeh anywaysssss

if anyone can clear this up like what is so amazing about this compared to the last one...i LOOOVED san andreas...