Since the Grand Theft Auto series went to 3D back in 2001, it's been known for a compelling and lengthy single-player mode. While GTA IV looks to continue that tradition, Rockstar has also added a robust multiplayer featuring plenty of competitive, cooperative and team modes. We've previously offered an in-depth look at Hangman's NOOSE, Cops 'n' Crooks, Team Deathmatch and GTA Race. Get ready to learn about some of the other modes which you will almost certainly be playing online next week.
GTA IV doesn't have a traditional menu. When you pop the disc into your console, you are launched into your most recent single-player campaign save. To get to multiplayer, just whip out Niko's phone and select it from the list of available applications. Once you've chosen a ranked or unranked match, you're off to the lovely land to murder, death, kill online.
Microsoft doesn't offer native clan support (thanks a lot, Uncle Gates!), but the in-game party system has become a popular alternative. Invite some friends to your party and you'll be able to teleport around to various game modes, sticking together between each session. But you won't be sitting around long staring at boring screens. That's because Party Mode drops you into a secluded part of Liberty City with a host of guns and vehicles available to smack your buddies around. This is your lobby and it can become a pleasant distraction while the host tries to get his act together and launch you into one of the many multiplayer modes available.
Though you do spawn a bit out of the public eye, you can still hop in a car or helicopter and take off from more populated areas. As with all of GTA's multiplayer modes, Liberty City is wide open to you. If you want, you can abandon your friends and go exploring. While this may sound enticing, there is a mode designated for causing mayhem in the streets. Party Mode is a distraction while the host sets up the real fun -- Free Mode.
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