1. Delivering Another Evolution To The GTA Formula


Theres no denying that Grand Theft Auto IV was a huge leap forward for the franchise, but at a certain level it was almost a guarantee. The transition had already been made to 3D gameplay with three previous installments on the PlayStation 2 hardware, so fans everywhere expected a new 3D installment with better graphics. It was an amazing accomplishment, but many fans seemed to be disappointed with the heavy focus on realism. Cell phones werent quite necessary were they?

With Grand Theft Auto V, Rockstar needs to ensure that they deliver fans an evolution to the core gameplay, and inject a few new mechanics that takes the Grand Theft Auto formula to another level. However, if they decide to solely focus on evolving the level of realism, they may run the risk of losing a die-hard fan base that enjoyed GTA IV. It would seem the key is to strike a better balance between realism and sandbox gaming bliss, which leads us to our next point


2. Following In The Series Footsteps While Embracing Change


Many complaints from fans of Grand Theft Auto was that the fourth installment favored a higher level of realism over the chaotic sandbox gameplay of the previous titles. Rockstar attempted to deliver a heavier narrative experience, and thrust gamers into a realistic world of the criminal underbelly in Liberty City. They certainly achieved what they set out to accomplish, but it seems that fans were split between enjoying the evolution and being disappointed with the slight departure from its origins. It seems the core concepts they fell in love with were lost in translation for many.

Rockstar can certainly deliver a phenomenal experience for Grand Theft Auto fans everywhere by creating the perfect blend of classic over-the-top gameplay, and a realistic narrative with intense missions. Rockstar should be able to provide jet-packs, a variety of cheats, and all around insanity for those San Andreas die-hard fans. Then, when it comes down to the core game itself, narrow in on telling a powerful narrative with a solid foundation in reality.

Cant we all be friends?

3. Upping the Gunplay Ante


Lets face it, the shooting mechanics in Grand Theft Auto IV werent quite as smooth as butter, and they certainly need to be tweaked in order to provide a better experience in the middle of an intense shootout. Shootouts are going to happen. Thats just a scientific fact.

With Rockstar having finished development on Max Payne 3 it seems that they can use a great amount of the information they gained from the action shooter and inject it into GTA V. Max Payne 3 relied heavily on focusing in on perfecting shooting gameplay, and it seems foolish if they dont inject some aspect of what they learned into Grand Theft Auto V. With any luck, GTA V fans will get a vastly improved combat system that helps push the game over the edge of sheer awesomeness.

HumorMore Of It


Sure, Grand Theft Auto IV had its fair share of humorous moments and witty radio host banter, but it seems that there was a substantial decrease in attention to comedic touches on society.

It may be a smaller idea to focus in on, but it is definitely an enormous aspect of what makes Grand Theft Auto such a great gaming experience. Writers and designers have one of the best mediums available to them in order to create a social critique on a wide variety of aspects of our society in subtle ways. No one wants to be beaten over the head senselessly with them, but it certainly adds to the immersion and fun of being in the game world. Adding in a layer of focus on creating a wide range of humor would serve the team well.

5. Bigger And Better Side Missions


Now, I already know that there were a fairly wide variety of side missions in GTA IV, but the truth of it is that they could have been a lot better. We were able to drive Little Jacob to different drug deals, and then drive a cab around to pick up some cab fare. After that, we were able to drive around the city to assassinate people. Well, you get the idea. Many of the side missions were fun, dont snap my head off just yet, but it felt that Rockstar could have taken a bigger chance with the side missions. Dove a little bit deeper with the missions that the devoted fans would surely complete every single one of.

Perhapsa fully fledged drug economy?

Continue reading for more on a drug economy but first, Im sorry Rockstar but why was darts and bowling the first things you thought of to put in Grand Theft Auto IV? I understand it was a way to help create the importance of relationships and a way to make NPCs know you care about them butreally?

6. Drug Economy (Chinatown Wars Fa Sho)


Was I the only one who enjoyed being a drug dealer in Chinatown Wars?

Now, Im not saying that I want to be a drug dealer, so calm down. What I am saying is that this kind of game mechanic added another layer of depth into the Grand Theft Auto universe, and it proved to be a fun diversion from the main story. If Rockstar is able to flesh this concept out into a deeper system for Grand Theft Auto V, many fans will be treated to an interesting way to make money for that brand new digital condo.

If the team gets even more creative, they could use the idea of a drug economy to dynamically influence your gameplay missions. Imagine youre beginning to take over new territory with your gang and already started to aggressively expand into other territory, running your product. Rockstar could add a smaller mini-game where you have to place dealers in certain locations to produce the most income, and inevitably they get attacked. Better yet, make it a dynamic mission where you must drive to a variety of different locations, and scope out which would be the best position for your soldier.

They already proved they could create a dealing system in Chinatown Wars, so it would seem that we could expect something like it in GTA V. If done right it would definitely add an entirely new layer of gameplay for consoles.

7. Multiplayer That Matters To Fans


I know that Im not the only one who enjoyed playing with friends online and engaging in multiplayer mayhem, but something just seemed to be missing. Luckily, Rockstar has proven that they can substantially alter the way they approach multiplayer with both Red Dead Redemption and Max Payne 3. The inclusion of Crews within Max Payne 3 is proving to be an interesting addition to the multiplayer community, and with the Crews that you form in MP 3 carrying over into GTA V multiplayer it would appear that we might be in for another impressive expansion.

Rockstar has the potential of incorporating the idea of Crews from Max Payne 3 into the Free Roam scope of Red Dead Redemption, and create something truly unique for Grand Theft Auto fans.

8. Gang WarfareDare I Say Co-Op?


We all remember San Andreas and the impact it had on the gameplay. It instantly seeped its way into nearly ever aspect of the game. From clamoring your way up the ladder of respect by completing missions, or changing your appearance to fit the role. It dominated San Andreas, and since GTA V is taking place in the same location as San Andreas it would seem that many fans will be disappointed if the impact of gangs doesnt make its way back in.

Gangs not only present an impressive way to create immersion, but also provide a golden opportunity to include four player co-op.

One person drives while the other three hand out the window and shoot. Two people go into the drug deal while the other two provide overwatch with sniper rifles. Los Santos would be yours for the taking. If Rockstar could manage to incorporate the idea of Crews into co-op players would be able to manage their Crew in both single player, co-op, and competitive multiplayer. It would certainly be an insanely ambitious undertaking, but as long as gangs make an appearance in both single player and multiplayer (Crews), then I think Rockstar may just live up to the hype indeed.