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IN BRIEF
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Grand Theft Auto IV, often abbreviated as GTA IV, is one of the most iconic episodes of the famous video game franchise. Developed by Rockstar North, its launch has generated immense anticipation among gamers around the world. Initially scheduled for the end of 2007, its release finally took place on April 29, 2008, marking the start of an epic adventure in the fictional town of Liberty City. Follow the adventures of Niko Bellic, a complex character in search of a new beginning in a universe where crime reigns supreme.
Grand Theft Auto IV: Initial release date
The game Grand Theft Auto IV (GTA IV) marked a turning point in the world of video games with its incredible immersion and captivating storyline. Released on April 29, 2008, this iconic title exceeded expectations in terms of graphics, gameplay and storytelling. Let’s go behind the scenes of this historic date and explore what led to the general excitement surrounding its release.
Chaotic development
The development of GTA IV has not been a smooth ride. Originally planned for release in 2007, the developers of Rockstar North experienced unforeseen delays. These delays were caused by the desire to offer a game of exceptional quality while integrating an open world rich in details. As such, the developers have invested a large amount of resources to polish every aspect of the game, ranging from graphics to realistic physics.
An early launch
With information leaks and massive promotion, the anticipation for the release of GTA IV was at its peak. Fans were eagerly awaiting the chance to explore the virtual city of Liberty City. Indeed, the hype surrounding the game was such that it generated immense hype, culminating in the release of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions. The long-awaited day thus arrived on April 29, 2008, and players were finally able to take control of Niko Bellic’s story.
Critical reception
Upon its release, GTA IV received a very warm reception from critics and players alike. With near-perfect ratings in many trade magazines, the game quickly gained acclaim for its complex storyline and endearing characters. Niko Bellic, a former soldier in search of the American dream, has become a symbol of the moral ambivalence present in the game. The quality of the writing and the dialogues were so well done that they made GTA IV one of the biggest successes of the industry.
Expansions and legacy
The success of GTA IV spawned two expansions, The Lost and Damned and The Ballad of Gay Tony, which enriched the universe of the game. These additions allowed players to further explore the narrative universe and the themes of the game. The complete edition, called Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition, has thus become a must-have for all fans of the franchise.
With a release marked by hype and chaotic developments, GTA IV remains a pillar of video game history, and a model of what an action-adventure game can offer. If you are one of those who like to relive memorable video game experiences, do not hesitate to rediscover this monument on Steam or on Amazon. For the more curious, there are even guides on GTA 3 trophies that will immerse you in the intriguing history of the series.
Grand Theft Auto IV Initial Release Date
| Release date | Details |
| April 29, 2008 | Official launch date of the game on consoles. |
| January 24, 2008 | Uploaded to Amazon, creating buzz before release. |
| Q4 2007 | Initially planned for this period, but postponed. |
| 2007 | Year where the history of the game begins, following Niko Bellic. |
| March 24, 2020 | Release of the Complete Edition including DLC. |
- Original release date: April 29, 2008
- Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC
- Developer: Rockstar North
- Editor: Take-Two Interactive
- Gender : Action-Adventure
- Theme : Contemporary, America
- Extensions: The Lost and Damned, The Ballad of Gay Tony
- Online date: January 24, 2008
- Complete edition: March 24, 2020