'Grand Theft Auto' invades mobile devices
— -- One of the most popular — and controversial — video games of our time is now playable in mobile form.
Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto III: 10 Year Anniversary Edition delivers an experience similar to the original gritty console game adventure, but now can be taken on the go on an iPhone 4/4S, iPod touch (fourth generation), iPad and most Android devices.
Despite some all-touchscreen controls that take some getting used to — especially on smaller screens — this new spin on the decade-old instant classic delivers the same exhilarating gameplay, missions and open-world freedom.
There are some new features, too, but we'll get to that in a moment.
In case you've never played 2001's Grand Theft Auto III: You assume the role of an up-and-coming criminal looking to climb the ranks of the underworld in the fictional Liberty City. Played from a cinematic third-person perspective, this is achieved by taking on seedy jobs such as carjacking, destroying evidence, delivering merchandise, running rival gangs off the road, shooting witnesses and blowing up mob bosses.
With nearly 100 non-linear missions (some on foot, some in-vehicle), countless side jobs (such as drag racing for extra cash) and collectible items strewn throughout the world, there's enough engaging gameplay here to satiate even the most finicky player.
The game also features many memorable characters, plenty of weapons to acquire and dozens of familiar songs (spanning multiple genres) you can listen to while inside of vehicles — and hilarious radio DJ banter and commercials, too.
Unlike most games that keep you on a tight leash, Rockstar truly created an open-ended New York-like metropolis in which to run, gun and drive. Sidewalks are bustling with pedestrians going about their business; there's more than 50 different kinds of cars, trucks and buses; and buildings are built to scale, complete with proper signage and back alleyways. The weather and time of day also will affect gameplay. For example, some missions may only be performed at night (and many missions are timed, too) while rain makes roads slippery, fog reduces visibility, and so forth.
The 462MB download for iOS and Android devices also adds updated character and vehicle models, a new mission replay and autosave function, and customizable controls. But using a virtual analog stick with your left thumb and pressing pretend buttons with your right thumb — without blocking your screen — can be a challenge for some. Shooting, especially, can be difficult to pull off with precision. Because of the added real estate, playing on a tablet should provide a better experience than on a smaller device.
Overall, however, Grand Theft Auto III: 10 Year Anniversary Edition should provide many dozens of hours of thrilling urban gameplay — for only $5, no less. And unlike the original game this immersive, seedy adventure can be taken with you everywhere.
Just be sure the kiddies aren't looking over your shoulder. Take heed of the "Mature" warning on iTunes and Android Market, as this mature game isn't ideal for players under 17 years of age.
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Grand Theft Auto III: 10 Year Anniversary Edition
Platform: Apple iOS and Android
Genre: Action/Adventure
Developer: Rockstar Games/ War Drum Studios
Publisher: Rockstar Games
Web site: www.rockstar.com
Price: $4.99
Rating: "Mature"
Score: 3.5 stars (out of 4)
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Contact Saltzman at techcomments@usatoday.com.
