Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition

80%
Game Brain Score Based on 56,174 reviews
  • story
  • graphics
  • gameplay
Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition Game Cover
Starting at €19.99Buy now
Get on Steam

Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition combines GTA IV and its episodic content in one purchase. This updated version removes multiplayer, Games for Windows Live, and some radio stations, but existing saves remain compatible. The Complete Edition will replace the standalone GTA IV and EFLC on digital stores, and it will be available on the Rockstar Games Launcher.

Play Modes

Reviews

80%
Audience ScoreBased on 56,174 reviews
story5,168 positive mentions
optimization937 negative mentions
  • story12,936 mentions

    The story of "Grand Theft Auto IV" is widely regarded as one of the best in the series, featuring a dark and gritty narrative centered around Niko Bellic, an Eastern European immigrant navigating the criminal underworld of Liberty City. Players appreciate the depth of character development and the emotional weight of the storyline, which explores themes of revenge, betrayal, and the harsh realities of the American dream. However, many reviews highlight significant frustrations with gameplay mechanics, particularly the lack of mission checkpoints and persistent bugs, especially in the final mission, which can detract from the overall experience.

    • “Grand Theft Auto IV remains one of the most iconic games in the series, largely due to its gripping storyline and the living, breathing city of Liberty City.”
    • “The depth of the story is complemented by the immersive open world of Liberty City, which feels alive and bustling with activities.”
    • “Niko's quest for vengeance against those who wronged him leads players on a journey through the city's criminal hierarchy, where loyalties are tested and alliances are forged and broken.”
    • “The final mission is bugged and cannot be completed by regular means. After all these years, pretty much sums up my opinion of this game.”
    • “I can't even begin to explain how disappointed I am in being unable to finish the last mission of the game, glitches after glitches after glitches, tried everything and yet the game just doesn't let me finish the mission.”
    • “The last mission is literally impossible to complete without tweaking your pc settings mid game, and even then it is simply not fun due to game mechanics.”
  • graphics3,044 mentions

    The graphics of "Grand Theft Auto IV" have received mixed reviews, with many players acknowledging that while the visuals were impressive for their time in 2008, they now appear dated compared to modern standards, particularly when compared to "GTA V." Players often mention the game's poor optimization on PC, which can lead to issues such as low frame rates and graphical glitches, especially on systems with more than 2GB of VRAM. However, with the use of mods, many have found ways to enhance the graphics significantly, making the game visually appealing even today. Overall, while the graphics may not meet contemporary expectations, the game's atmosphere and artistic style still resonate with many fans.

    • “The graphics and textures were impressive upon release and still hold up well today, contributing to the game’s lasting appeal.”
    • “The game's graphics are impressive, with detailed character models, realistic physics, and stunning visual effects that make the game feel alive.”
    • “For a game made in 2008, the graphics are phenomenal.”
    • “Graphics are not just atrocious for its time, it is awful.”
    • “The graphics, performance, could have been and should have been better for the PC version especially.”
    • “The game graphics and FPS seem to be working too low even on higher end PCs even after playing around in the graphics settings of the game there still seem to be huge FPS drops and jittery cut scenes that make Niko Bellic look like he is shaking a lot.”
  • gameplay2,800 mentions

    The gameplay of Grand Theft Auto IV is a mixed bag, praised for its realistic driving mechanics and engaging story, but criticized for clunky controls and repetitive mission structures. While the game introduces innovative features like a cover system and ragdoll physics, many players find the driving experience frustrating and the overall mechanics dated compared to modern standards. Despite these issues, the game's rich narrative and immersive world continue to resonate with fans, making it a noteworthy entry in the series.

    • “The diverse gameplay mechanics set a new standard, offering a depth that few titles have matched since its release.”
    • “Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition is a monumental entry in the open-world genre, offering a deep and immersive experience that blends gritty storytelling, meticulous world-building, and open-ended gameplay.”
    • “The gameplay itself is very strong, with a variety of missions and activities that keep players engaged.”
    • “The gameplay is very repetitive, but feels like a test for what Rockstar in the end did with GTA 5, though that suffered on the story front.”
    • “The driving mechanics are better than in any other GTA, I don't know why they made it even worse in GTA V.”
    • “The gameplay can be a little sloppy due to the realistic physics.”
  • optimization2,136 mentions

    The optimization of Grand Theft Auto IV on PC has been widely criticized, with many players reporting severe performance issues, including stuttering, frame rate drops, and crashes, even on high-end systems. Despite the game's compelling story and engaging gameplay, the poor optimization necessitates extensive tweaking and the use of mods to achieve a playable experience. Overall, while the game remains a classic, its technical shortcomings significantly detract from the enjoyment for many players.

    • “While the PC port suffers from performance issues, the sheer depth and quality of the content—especially with the included expansions—make it well worth the effort to get it running properly.”
    • “Great game, although a bit unoptimized it's playable on my personal quad-core laptop with integrated graphics that's running Windows 10 without any tweaks to the game, which is really pleasant to see.”
    • “Despite its performance issues on PC, the game's compelling narrative, diverse cast of characters, and expansive open-world environment more than make up for any technical shortcomings.”
    • “But has the worst optimization and the worst PC port I have ever seen, and no one is talking about it for some reason.”
    • “The PC port is a horribly optimized, buggy, technical nightmare that ruins the experience by throwing constant game-breaking bugs at you.”
    • “The game is still poorly optimized, and Rockstar won't do anything about it.”
  • music1,255 mentions

    The music in "Grand Theft Auto IV" is a standout feature, praised for its diverse and eclectic soundtrack that enhances the game's atmosphere. However, many players express disappointment over the removal of over 50 songs due to expired licenses, which has significantly altered the original experience. While some recommend using mods to restore the missing tracks, the overall sentiment reflects frustration with Rockstar's handling of the game's music rights and updates.

    • “The music is top notch as well.”
    • “The soundtrack perfectly complements Liberty City’s atmosphere, and the music can enhance both quiet drives and adrenaline-pumping chases.”
    • “The game's handling of nightlife and club scenes is also a highlight, with vibrant visuals and a pulsating soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of the city’s party scene.”
    • “Bought it again here mostly for the music ... only to find that most of the music was removed.”
    • “If you're looking for the full experience with the music, don't bother.”
    • “They removed almost all the old songs playing on vladivostokfm, a radio station that you will hear a lot, and replaced them with new songs.”
  • stability1,021 mentions

    The stability of the PC version of Grand Theft Auto IV is widely criticized, with numerous users reporting frequent crashes, game-breaking glitches, and performance issues. Many players recommend using mods to mitigate these problems, as the game is often described as a "buggy mess" that can be nearly unplayable without significant troubleshooting. While some enjoy the nostalgic experience despite the technical flaws, the overall consensus is that the game suffers from poor optimization and persistent bugs that detract from the gameplay experience.

    • “Still holds up in 2024, runs great on the Steam Deck.”
    • “Runs perfectly under Linux, stable 4k60 with highest settings, with no glitches or stuttering.”
    • “Game runs great, and is just as fun as it's always been.”
    • “Had to request a refund after first 30 minutes as it was completely unplayable, full of bugs and glitches.”
    • “The PC port is a horribly optimized, buggy, technical nightmare that ruins the experience by throwing constant game-breaking bugs at you.”
    • “The game is buggy as hell and completely unoptimized for PC play.”
  • humor740 mentions

    The humor in "GTA IV" is a standout feature, blending dark comedy with sharp social commentary, making it both memorable and engaging. Players appreciate the game's witty dialogue, quirky characters, and the absurdity of random in-game events, such as funny glitches and ragdoll physics, which add to the overall comedic experience. While some reviews note a shift towards a more serious tone compared to previous titles, the humor remains a vital aspect that resonates with fans, enhancing the game's narrative depth and entertainment value.

    • “The combination of humor, action, and drama solidifies GTA IV as a memorable title that resonates with players long after they’ve put down the controller.”
    • “The dialogue is sharp and well-written, laced with Rockstar's signature humor and social commentary.”
    • “With its hilarious mishaps, unforgettable characters, and a city that's begging to be thrown into utter mayhem, this game is a barrel of laughs from start to finish.”
    • “It made comrade and communist jokes before it went mainstream and became overused and unfunny.”
    • “No songs you'll recognize.. the talk radio isn't even fun to listen to - it's like some kind of Rush Limbaugh parody but really not funny. No jokes, it comes across as just mean and nasty. At times it sounds almost like it's not a parody and that they actually are pushing an anti-LGBT message.”
    • “This is personal preference but where a lot of the older games have kind of a pulpy, corny story that still has old school charm, I found this game just a little bit boring story-wise, and the majority of the characters I felt were annoying and unfunny and not particularly endearing.”
  • atmosphere476 mentions

    The atmosphere of Grand Theft Auto IV is widely praised for its immersive and gritty portrayal of Liberty City, which feels alive with detailed environments, dynamic weather, and a diverse population. Reviewers highlight the game's dark and melancholic tone, which complements its serious narrative and character development, making it a standout entry in the series. The atmospheric soundtrack and realistic physics further enhance the experience, creating a unique and engaging world that resonates with players long after they finish the game.

    • “The atmosphere of Liberty City with its rich and detailed world perfectly captures the essence of mid-late 2000s New York City.”
    • “The combination of a top-notch story, well-crafted characters, and a dark, atmospheric world makes it a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.”
    • “The atmosphere is dark and gritty, and the driving physics doesn't bother me at all.”
    • “The atmosphere of the game and the physics is incredibly inaccurate and playing the game feels like a chore.”
    • “The atmosphere is purposely grey and dreary, portraying a dark city where only the ruthless go ahead, and this is well in tone with the grim tone of the story.”
  • grinding200 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game is widely criticized for being tedious and repetitive, with many players expressing frustration over the lack of checkpoints and the necessity to replay long missions after failures. Achieving 100% completion is often described as a grueling task filled with monotonous side quests and collectibles, leading to a gameplay experience that feels more like a chore than enjoyable entertainment. While some appreciate the story and character development, the overall sentiment is that the grinding elements detract significantly from the game's enjoyment.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “A bit grindy sometimes.”
    • “One long, tedious grind.”
    • “I remember loving GTA IV back in the day, but it is nothing more than a tedious, dated, and grindy experience now.”
    • “Just like any other 3D GTA game, getting 100% completion is like dragging your nuts through broken glass, and the infrequent crashes and game-breaking bugs make it 10x more tedious and mind-numbingly boring than any other game.”
    • “The game itself is also a bit tedious in my opinion.”
  • emotional155 mentions

    The emotional aspect of Grand Theft Auto IV is highlighted by its rich narrative and complex characters, particularly the protagonist Niko Bellic, whose journey of seeking redemption and grappling with his past resonates deeply with players. While some reviews note that it may not reach the emotional heights of other titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, many praise its mature storytelling, impactful voice acting, and the ability to make meaningful choices that affect character fates, resulting in a compelling and often heartbreaking experience. Overall, the game is recognized for its ability to evoke strong emotional responses, making it a standout in the franchise.

    • “The rich narrative, filled with complex characters and real emotional weight, keeps you hooked from start to finish.”
    • “The story is mature, dark, and emotionally engaging, with Niko portrayed as a multifaceted character driven by loyalty, guilt, and a desire for a new beginning.”
    • “His journey to escape his past and find a new life is both poignant and relatable, adding emotional weight to the gameplay.”
    • “The main story is the most bland and boring story I've played, and I've played dozens and dozens of games.”
    • “One of the most terrible GTA games with an incredibly boring storyline and characters.”
    • “Even though the restriction on mods has been lifted, I will not be giving this game any praise, from its colorless environment to its boring story, this game is just bad from the ground up.”
  • replayability151 mentions

    Overall, "Grand Theft Auto IV" is praised for its high replayability, attributed to its expansive open world, diverse activities, and engaging storylines. Players appreciate the depth of characters and the addition of multiplayer modes, which enhance the experience. However, some users note that once the main story and side missions are completed, replay value may diminish, particularly in the context of technical issues and the need for mods to improve playability.

    • “This feature extends the game's replayability, ensuring that players have countless hours of entertainment beyond the main storyline.”
    • “The plethora of side missions and activities ensure that there is always something to do in Liberty City, adding to the game's replay value.”
    • “Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition offers significant replay value, with its vast open world and multitude of activities to explore.”
    • “Limited replayability once the main story and side missions are completed.”
    • “The % completion system tries to artificially drag out replayability, but in my opinion, it makes the missions worse; you don't get to enjoy them and are rather forced to rush them to achieve 100%.”
    • “While it had a decent storyline, it lacked replayability.”
  • character development70 mentions

    Character development in "Grand Theft Auto IV" is widely praised for its depth and complexity, particularly through the protagonist Niko Bellic, whose internal struggles and moral dilemmas resonate with players. Many reviews highlight the game's rich storytelling and well-crafted characters, asserting that it sets a high standard for character development in the open-world genre. While some critiques mention occasional weaknesses in pacing or mission design, the overall consensus is that the character arcs and interactions significantly enhance the game's immersive experience.

    • “GTA IV is a standout entry in the series, primarily due to its captivating story and rich character development.”
    • “The character development is exceptional, with Niko's internal struggles and moral dilemmas adding depth to an already intricate plot.”
    • “GTA IV represents the pinnacle of storytelling and proper character development in a GTA game, to this point.”
    • “Story just repeats itself, no character development and the controls are pathetic.”
    • “Instead of character development and motivation you can have three words 'I need money'.”
    • “Unplayable piece of garbage with shit tier performance, game breaking glitches, 0 story or writing and 0 character development.”
  • monetization70 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising the absence of microtransactions and in-game purchases, particularly in contrast to the more recent titles in the series that are criticized for aggressive monetization strategies. Some players appreciate the clean experience and engaging storyline without the burden of additional costs, while others express frustration over misleading advertising and the lack of ongoing support for the game. Overall, the sentiment leans towards favoring games that prioritize gameplay and narrative over monetization tactics.

    • “A really good game with absolutely 0 in-game purchases. Don't hesitate to buy it because for a Rockstar game, it's a really nice and clean experience backed with a sick storyline.”
    • “Good game and I enjoyed the fact that it doesn't have in-app purchases like an Angry Birds rip-off.”
    • “It has 3 storylines (including single-player DLCs, which GTAV does not have), it has no paywalls and microtransactions, and has a plethora of vibrant characters.”
    • “They resold GTA V countless times and got flush from some of the worst microtransactions in the industry.”
    • “This seems like more of a cash grab than anything.”
    • “GTA V is a commercial cash grab that survives only by bleeding the credit cards of the mothers and fathers of 12-year-olds who play the game.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Buy Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition

Play time

24hMedian play time
66hAverage play time
7-69hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 133 analyzed playthroughs

Similar Games