5. The Depth of the Map
In terms of map size, San Andreas definitely boasts the largest in terms of square footage, however much of that is taken up by wide open, near barren stretches of woodland and desert. But when you behold the sheer depth of IVs map, it quickly becomes apparent that, although its smaller in scale than that of its predecessor, its clearly one of the deepest, richest and most thoroughly designed in the entire franchise. You can easily get lost in the GTA IV map, and I dont mean lost as in you dont know where you are (the GPS satnav will ensure that never happens), but in the sense that you can just drive, no mission, no purpose, just taking in the sights and the sounds, enjoying the superior driving mechanics, and finding new and exciting ways to attract and lose the police amongst the sprawling urban jungle of Liberty City.