9) Super stores

San Andreas brand names like Binco, Burger Shot, 24-7 and Clucking Bell are all back in GTA IV, along with plenty more brands from previous games. Alderney will also be the home of strip malls, providing a one-stop-shop for clothing, food and more.

10) Ticker taped
Rob a bank? Murder a crime boss? People are going to know about it. The news tickers in Star Junction (Liberty City’s Times Square) and around the city are always being updated - along, sadly for you, with descriptions of the perpetrator.

11) Coffee republic
The Hot Coffee mod fiasco landed Rockstar in some hot water, but it’s good to see they’ve seen the funny side of it. Bean Machine Coffee signs litter Liberty City. The ‘familiar’ positioning of the coffee beans in the logo is no accident either...

12) Man in the mirror
Those of you who aren’t overwhelmed by the graphics (seriously - what’s wrong with you?) should take a close look at this. First car: driver facing forward. Second car: driver checking the mirror. Third car: driver looking out the side window. GTA IV’s about the little details - and they’re staggering.

13) Just gotta ride it
Flushing Meadows (site of the NY World’s Fair) is featured in its entirety, as is a recreation of theme park Astroland at Coney Island. Rides such as the Corpse Ride and Cyclone can be tested, and the major tourist spots will play a part in some missions.