While the original Grand Theft Auto revolutionised on the PS2, this glorified add-on (and I mean that in a good way) refines the successful formula of the original into yet another enthralling experience on the PS2. The graphics may not be top of the class, the cars and models lack detail from up close, but for the huge scale of the game, the graphics are very impressive. Sound effects are supurbly done, the radio stations just get better, there is far more chatter from Tommy as he runs about the streets, and the voice acting and cut scenes are just brilliant.
But is it more of the same? To some extent, yes, but really, the strength of Vice City is that it IS just Grand Theft Auto 3 in a new city. That is what people wanted, gamers are satisfied with a new city to play around in, because the game was so much fun to play in the first place, a change of scenery was all that was needed. The new missions challenge the player in similar ways, but the new characters and improved story of the game make it an engaging experience.
The freeform nature of the game is still its main strength, and sure enough there are improvements in this that add new dimensions to the game, indoor areas such as the mall and many stores to buy weapons from, or even better, to hold up at gunpoint. Motorbikes make a return to the series, and while a novelty, can be some fun to play around with, and the new areas of the game, the beach, golf course, sports arena and malls make for more diverse crime sprees and even better ways to become a wanted felon.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, is no revolution. It just takes a brilliant game and places it in a different setting, one with far more character, charm and personality than the original, and it is more than enough for any GTA fan.
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