Grand Theft Auto 4
While Rockstar’s premiere open-world offerings have never shied away from the use of violence and profanities, the franchise always balanced it with its signature satirical writing and often goofy characters. Grand Theft Auto 4, however, marks a subtle departure from this comfort zone into something darker in themes and storytelling. Sure, it’s still a satire on the fabled “American Dream” and characters like Roman Bellic are still comic reliefs for the most part, but Nico Bellic’s journey through the streets of Liberty City with a thirst for revenge is unlike any other in the series. Also, the game’s final chapter is easily one of the most emotional in the entire series. Grand Theft Auto 4 is also characterized by excessive use of muted colors like green, brown, and grey – which creates a gloomy atmosphere that’s the perfect fit for this darker sequel.
