Introduction
Grand Theft Auto IV, often abbreviated as GTA 4, is the eleventh installment in the popular Grand Theft Auto series. Developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games, GTA 4 marked a significant milestone in the series, introducing new features and a more realistic setting. In this blog post, we will explore the release dates and history of GTA 4 across different platforms.
Development and Anticipation
GTA 4 was announced on May 9, 2006, during Microsoft’s E3 press conference. The game was initially intended for a fourth-quarter 2007 release but faced delays due to development challenges. Despite these delays, anticipation for the game was immense, with fans eagerly awaiting its release.
Release Dates by Platform
Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3
- Release Date: April 29, 2008
- Regions: The game was released simultaneously in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand on the same date. Japan followed later on October 30, 2008.
- Features: The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions were nearly identical, with the Xbox 360 version receiving timed-exclusive downloadable content.
PC
- Release Date: December 2, 2008 (North America and Europe), December 3, 2008 (Australia and New Zealand), and March 20, 2009 (Japan).
- Features: The PC version included additional multiplayer features and a video editor, which was the first tool to use Rockstar Games’ Social Club platform.
Reception and Impact
GTA 4 was met with widespread acclaim upon its release, setting a new benchmark for interactive entertainment. It was awarded the Gaming World Record of the Most Successful Entertainment Launch of All Time and received numerous other awards and accolades. The game’s success can be attributed to its engaging story, realistic setting, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
FAQs
Is GTA 4 available on all platforms?
Yes, GTA 4 is available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.
What are some notable features of GTA 4?
GTA 4 introduced a more realistic setting, deeper character development, and a refined gameplay experience. It also marked the first use of the RAGE engine in the series.
Stay tuned for more insights into the world of Grand Theft Auto!