Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Review

Good Points
Brilliant open gameplay; excellent (improved!) graphics engine. Great selection of 1980s music on the soundtrack. Main character voiced by actor Ray Liotta. Motorcycles, helicopters, PC-modding!

Bad Points
Radio stations can become repetitive. Game world sometimes feels a bit unpopulated (e.g. shopping malls). Some frustrating missions. Player still can't swim! (next time, Rockstar...)

General Comments
A follow-up (but prequel) to GTA III, Vice City should be the PC game of the year with its addictive and absorbing gameplay. The ability to complete missions or simply wander off and run amok is perfectly balanced - and a relief from all the FPS games around at the moment. The 3D graphics engine has been greatly improved, and there are intelligent (and fun) additions to the gameplay, especially the return of motorcycles. The use of sound is also excellent, as is the soundtrack. If only all games were as enjoyable as Vice City...