Old but Gold: GTA IV

Grand Theft Auto IV, better known as GTA IV, was introduced by Rockstar Games to the world in 29 April 2008. And it's still the favourite of most players.

How could GTA IV, a game made 15 years ago, can surpass newer titles such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA V? Let's analyze.

Story *spoilers ahead*

GTA IV's story is relatively simple to understand. Our protagonist Niko Bellic befriends Dimitri Rascalov, someone who later becomes Niko's enemy. Dimitri tries to have Niko killed on separate occasions, but is killed by Niko at the end.

It teaches a few life lessons, like: Wherever you go, people will find you, if they want you badly enough; and We can pick the game, Niko Bellic, but we cannot change the rules. (both said by Dimitri Rascalov)

Characters

Most of the characters we encounter in the game are well-written, and they each have their own place in the story. Almost none of the characters we encounter need to be removed or replaced.

Game engine

Let's get into the more technical side of the game. I agree that GTA IV has a better physics engine than GTA V. NPC movement is more detailed, and the driving mechanics are better compared to GTA V's engine.

Islands

You have 4 different islands: the main island, Bohan, Algonquin, Alderney. The main island is where we start our storyline, but have to ditch as the story progresses. 

Bohan is up next. I think Bohan lacked a distinct character, it only was enough to serve as the checkpoint between the main island and the next island: Algonquin.

Algonquin is my favorite island, because for me, it's got the perfect ratio of downtown and outskirts. You're close enough to the spotlight where it's not an hour long drive, and you're far enough that the noise isn't that bad.

Alderney is meh, because while it was great as a safehouse location, I found the place to be somewhat empty, like it was too industrial rather than active.