When Grand Theft Auto IV launched in 2008, it was met with a level of critical adulation rarely seen in the video game industry. A landmark title that not only redefined the open-world genre but, also pushed the boundaries of interactive storytelling.
Grand Theft Auto IV stuck with me as a classic, as did the 2 DLCs, particularly The Ballad of Gay Tony. Then came GTA V and we all kind of moved on. But Nico Bellic and his story never left me. It sounds melodramatic, but in many ways these games have been significant parts of my life. Watching the medium of gaming change before our eyes.
Now, over a decade and a half later, how does Niko Bellic’s journey through the gritty streets of Liberty City hold up? As rumours of a potential port to modern consoles swirl, it’s the perfect time to revisit this iconic and divisive entry in the Grand Theft Auto series.
I’ve been playing on Steam and on the Steam Deck (excellent way to experience it by the way!) and the nostalgia is hitting hard. Grand Theft Auto IV is excellent. Although if we were reviewing it today, it would be a little different to when it came out.
Here’s a comparison of original critical reception and views with a more modern lense on it.
The Original Reception of Grand Theft Auto IV
Upon its release, Grand Theft Auto IV was hailed as an instant masterpiece. Publications showered it with perfect scores, and it quickly became one of the highest-rated games of all time. The praise was centred on several key areas:
A Mature and Compelling Narrative
Critics lauded the game’s dark and sophisticated story. The tale of Niko Bellic, an Eastern European immigrant haunted by his past and searching for the American Dream. A significant departure from the more cartoonish and satirical tones of its predecessors. The writing was sharp, the characters were complex and well-developed. And the overall narrative was often compared to a top-tier crime drama.
A Living, Breathing World
Liberty City, a fictionalized version of New York City, was a technical marvel. The level of detail was staggering. From the diverse and dynamic behaviour of the pedestrians to the realistic weather effects and the sheer density of the urban environment. It was a world that felt alive and immersive in a way that few games had achieved before.
Refined Gameplay Mechanics
The introduction of a cover system revolutionized the series’ gunplay, making firefights more tactical and engaging. The driving physics were more realistic and weighty, adding to the game’s grounded feel.
The in-game mobile phone was a stroke of genius. Seamlessly integrating missions, social interactions, and other activities into the gameplay loop. Reflecting the modern world then, and still to this day. Albeit it a little more old fashioned.
A Modern Reassessment
In the years since its release, the perception of GTA IV has become more nuanced. While many still regard it as a masterpiece, a modern playthrough reveals some of the design choices that have not aged as gracefully.
The “Realism” Debate
The very elements that were praised for their realism in 2008 are now often the source of criticism. The “heavy” and less forgiving driving model is a common complaint. Especially when compared to the more arcade-like handling in GTA V.
The controversial “friendship” system, which saw Niko’s phone constantly ringing. Arguably more realistic now than ever. With requests to go bowling or play darts, is now widely seen as an annoyance that interrupts the flow of the game.
A Bleak and Repetitive World
The game’s gritty, washed-out colour palette and relentlessly bleak tone. It’s effective in setting a mood, can also make the game feel oppressive and, at times, monotonous. This is particularly striking in 2025, where colour and High Dynamic Range (HDR) are so prominent.
The mission design, while featuring some standout moments, often falls into a repetitive pattern of “drive here, shoot this person, escape the cops.”
The Shadow of GTA V
The massive success and more player-friendly design of Grand Theft Auto V have inevitably colorued the modern perception of its predecessor. GTA V’s vibrant world, diverse activities, and more over-the-top, fun-focused gameplay stand in stark contrast to the more serious and grounded experience of GTA IV.
Despite these criticisms, many players have come to appreciate what makes GTA IV unique. Its mature and emotionally resonant story. A deeply flawed but compelling protagonist, and its unparalleled sense of place still make it a powerful and unforgettable experience.
The Future of Liberty City: Port or Remaster?
Particularly interesting is that the rumour mill has been churning with speculation about a potential re-release of GTA IV for modern consoles. Particularly the PlayStation 4 and 5. These rumours gained significant traction in mid-2025, when the official Rockstar Games support website briefly listed a PS4 version of the game before it was quickly removed.
Insider reports suggest that this would likely be a port rather than a full-blown remaster. Which is similar to the 2023 re-release of Red Dead Redemption. This would likely mean a resolution and frame rate boost, making the game more accessible to a new generation of players. Which would make a re-play perfect. But it would not involve a significant graphical overhaul or changes to the core gameplay.
For many fans, a simple port would be enough. The PC version of GTA IV has long been plagued by performance issues, and a stable, optimized version for modern consoles would be a welcome addition. With the release of Grand Theft Auto VI still on the horizon, a return to the gritty streets of Liberty City could be the perfect way to tide players over.
A Flawed but Essential Masterpiece
Grand Theft Auto IV remains a landmark title in the history of video games. While some of its design choices have not aged as gracefully as others, its strengths are undeniable. The game’s powerful narrative, its incredibly detailed and immersive world, and its commitment to a more mature and grounded tone make it a unique and essential entry in the series.
Coming back to it has just made me want to dive further in, again. Whether it’s nostalgia, or not is a different question. It’s still holding-up way better than I expected, and the re-creation of New York is something that I was even able to use when I visited there a while back.
As a modern-day game there’s some polish required, that’s fair. But overall Grand Theft Auto IV is iconic, and undeniable as a masterpiece.