The whole game has gone through a graphic overhaul. Buildings stand out in even the smallest of senses. Dynamic lighting effects shine over the city, no matter what time of day it is. Niko even has the ability of going in and out of certain structures. Liberty City isn't the only thing to receive a makeover, however.

Player models have more realism this time around. Niko looks like a broken man, one yearning for a better life. Not only will other characters be aglow with such personal touches, but even less significant characters, such as average joes on the street, resemble real-life folk. Even smaller things, such as how a gun discharges its ammunition or smoke emitting from a car's tailpipe, should help lend to the game's visual experience.

GTA IV should also have strong audio support. Like previous games, you'll switch between several radio stations, varying in genres. Custom soundtracks could play a huge part in this, as you may be able to incorporate your own musical selections to the violent proceedings.

In addition, the game will contain multiplayer, but not in a routine MMO (massive multiplayer online) format. Rockstar Games hasn't revealed many details, but it'd be a total blast to go on a car-stealing binge with a buddy through Xbox Live or the PlayStation Network. Furthermore, Rockstar still has plans to release the game in two packages. The first is just the game itself for the routine $60 price. The second is a limited edition package, featuring a safety deposit box with matching keys, a Rockstar duffel bag, a special edition Grand Theft Auto IV art book, a soundtrack CD and revamped packaging. This deal will set you back an additional $30, but it certainly looks like it'll be worth it.

Grand Theft Auto IV looks like it'll live up to its hype. Its sprawling environment and thriving gameplay should be more than enough to make it one of 2008's biggest releases. Look for more details and preview updates in the months ahead.