GTA IV website launched

Well, the moment at which fans of Grand Theft Auto will be able to play the new game approaches, and today we take another step towards it.

The official website for GTA IV went live today. It is age gated, so be prepared to lie about your age if you're a minor. From the press release from Rockstar Games:

Today, you are invited to take your first steps into our fictional world of Liberty City as well. Meet-up with Niko's cousin Roman at his cab company in Broker. Be first in line for an on-stage performance in Star Junction. Test out your fizz-handling skills at the Sprunk soda HQ in Alderney. Analyze your 'Love Meet' compatibility while strolling through Algonquin, then swing by the Steinway Beer Garden in Dukes for a pint. This is only the first taste of what's out there to discover in Liberty City.

Anyone else planning on visiting Liberty City?

Grand Theft Auto IV: April 29

The highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto IV will be available worldwide - on both PS3 and Xbox 360 - on April 29.

Rockstar Games had hoped to get the game out the door last fall - it would have helped with the financial status of parent company Take Two Interactive - but perhaps wisely held the game to make sure it was polished and ready.

Fans, I'm confident, approve, despite how anxious some are to play the game. GTA IV has the potential to set sales records.

The latest game in the franchise is set in Liberty City. You'll play as Nikloai Bellic, searching the city for a person of importance.

GameDaily has a round-up of eight new features in the game:

1. Technology: your character can use computers, Internet, mobile phones
2. More difficult police alert system: not so easy to get away
3. Role-playing features removed: customizing character and leveling up are gone
4. Going up: you'll be able to get onto the roofs of those skyscrapers
5. Aim control: free aim and zoom features for weapons
6. Hail a taxi: a safer way to get across town, especially given #2
7. How to make friends and influence people: networking has become a game mechanic
8. Multiplayer: perhaps even cooperative play

I'm looking forward to this. Plus, it looks amazing. What do you think?