If you enjoyed GTA3, then you will enjoy this game. The graphics are improved as compared to GTA3, with smoother textures and a much more colorful environment. Though, there is an improvement, it still looks cartoony. This definitely is not a game that would take your breath away with its graphics. There are a lot more games out there with better graphics than this one. There are also some instances where the graphics would get blurred, just like in GTA3, where the streets and buildings would disappear and turn blue, but this happens less otfen in Vice City. Another thing I didn't like was the sunset. What happens here is that the whole screen is given a pinkish hue and this makes it difficult to see your surroundings, especially the road. But the graphics is not what makes this game good.
The best improvement done in Vice City was the sound. The sound effects seems to be more realistic as compared to GTA3 and the people around you have a lot more dialog. The two best things in the game is that Tommy now can talk. Unlike before, the Tommy would just be given orders and he would just stand there with no reaction at all. Because of this he looked like a retard who just follows orders. This time he has personality, he just doesn't stand there, but he speaks up about his thoughts on the mission. Another thing is the music. It's great to here those 80's music, and not just any kind of music, the artists are well known in the world. No other game has a soundtrack as good as this one. Sometimes I would just drive around and listen to the music that I enjoyed during my high school days and even now.
Another great thing about this game is that there are more missions, more vehicles and more weapons as compared to GTA3. It is also bigger, has indoor environments, you can buy some business establishments which can earn money, you can hold up stores, and there is a better story. The addition of helicopters, planes, which can actually fly and motorcycles are a big improvement. You can actually see the whole city from above while riding on a helicopter, and this is an amazing sight. The story is for you to see, but in the end of the game you get a sense of satisfaction after completion.
In conclusion, this game is a great improvement from GTA3. Everyting here is a 10 except for the graphics. This game is worth buying and you won't regret it.