Rockstar Games has officially announced a follow-up to their hit PSP game Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. The game will be called Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, and will take place in that familiar locale that was visited back in the PS2 game Vice City, although the story, scenarios, and some of the characters will be entirely new.

"The success of Liberty City Stories on the PSP system was nothing short of spectacular," said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games and Executive Producer. "The incredible PSP system technology allowed us to do things we never thought possible on a handheld system and we are excited to once again give our audience a fresh experience in one of their favorite locales in the Grand Theft Auto series, Vice City. With Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories we look to once again smash expectations of portable gaming, bringing an all new story and exciting new gameplay elements to this classic setting."

"Our collaboration with Rockstar Leeds has been a tremendous experience," said Leslie Benzies, President of Rockstar North. "Together we have been able to create uncompromising experiences on the PSP system that not only stay true to our initial vision for the series but that surpasses our own goals of what could be done on a handheld. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories will thrill longtime fans and excite new PSP system gamers like never before."

The game ships in the US on October 17, 2006, and in Europe three days later. Oh, and if you want more Liberty City Stories, don't forget the PS2 version ships next month.