The console generation gap between San Andreas and GTA IV meant that Rockstar had a whole new set of hardware to play with when it came to developing the next instalment of their flagship series. When the game finally released, it was clear that this gap represented a major leap forward and a lot of time well spent. The physics in this game probably offered the best showcase of how far things had progressed. Just walking through the streets of Liberty City was enough to demonstrate this, as Niko bumped and bashed his way past civilians who all react and move realistically. In combat enemies would stagger and fall believably for each sustained wound, and Niko himself became sluggish when riddled with leaden shots. Even the silliest of examples demonstrated a great technical feat; managing to drop a car from the top of a high-rise would yield results in line with what you'd expect from such an impact, and Niko's body would twist and contort on the 'Wasted' screen each time he was killed in an explosion. This game set out a lot of the groundwork for the great physics in Max Payne 3, which in turn saw its advancements honed later on in GTA V. Call it the circle of life, if you like...
Gareth is 28 years old and lives in Cardiff. Interests include film, TV and an unhealthy amount of Spider-Man comics and Killers songs. Expect constant references to the latter two at all times.
Follow on twitter @GJCartwright.
