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GamerBlipsAside from the obvious, tasteless YouTube videos that flyable planes might give way to, the main reason for their omission is the pointlessness of a jet when the game is based in a single city. Why (and how) would you fly from The Bronx to Coney Island in real-life? Instead, we get helicopters, which is a great compromise, and certain to be a neat way to get round the city - the final section of the demo focuses on the sheer scale of the game world with Niko surveying an expansive cityscape from the riverside at sunrise.
As well as a lack of planes, certain other GTA trademarks have been omitted. The amusing, yet peripheral character customization elements that allowed you fatten up your CJ or make him strong, are out and Niko's character is more likely to change as a result of certain emotional situations that will arise as the story unfolds. Equally, while the plot still retains a black sense of humour, comedic situations such as driving a Hovercraft through Time Square are not on the cards. Incidentally, boats will still play a big part in transport (what with Manhattan being on an island) as will an underground train network.
In truth, many other games would never get away with expecting tens of media outlets to produce previews based on the same 15 minute demo. But the GTA series isn't 'many other games.' During this short showcase so much is promised and even more left for later timed reveals. Things like missions, weapons, vehicles, characters, new game mechanics, with which we'll be able to build a bigger picture of what actually playing the game will be like. Until then all we can do is imagine what Rockstar has up its sleeve. Let’s just hope - as it managed with the leap from GTA 2 to GTA 3 - this generational progression succeeds in being even better than we can imagine.
For more GTA coverage including the full-length trailer click here.
