I have recently acquired a copy of GTA IV and spent most of the weekend playing. I have spent a small amount of time playing it and I have already figured out that those people who are speaking out against this game have not played it for one second. Let us begin with the always mindful crusaders at MADD. While I agree with their goal of trying to rid the country of drunk driving I disagree with their knee jerk reaction to such a small offense. Yes you CAN drink and drive in GTA IV. You can also drink and drive in real life. Just as in real life the game shows that drinking and driving is not a good idea. After hearing this complaint I have to admit the first thing I ran out to try was drinking and driving, probably would have stumbled on it later if not for the collective cry from MADD, and it is nearly impossible to drive. The screen continuously rocks from side to side as if you are on a boat and the vision is blurred and generally distorted. I had to set the controller down and stop playing after this as I felt sick. If MADD had any sense they would hail this video game for accurately showing how bad drinking and driving is. If MADD truly wants to make a difference then why are they not petitioning the government to make it illegal to sell alcohol where you sell gas? I have countless number of times been getting gas and seen the store clerk not only sell a single beer to a driver but also give him a small brown bag to hide the beverage. This to me seems more important than worrying about a game that is rated M.

This brings me to my second point. What good is a rating system if we are going to scream about it when we disagree with it? GTA IV is rated M for mature. Why are impressionable children getting this game? What absentee parent is purchasing this for their child? And more importantly why is AO the kiss of death. I am an adult and I do like to play games. I have grown up with games and now want more mature fair in my gaming experience. I do not wish to bow to Wal-Mart's Christian compliance.  They are the largest retailer and will not sell items they deem offensive but you can still buy guns and ammo from them this makes no sense. We are adults and are capable of deciding what we wish to purchase. If they do not want to sell this game to children I support that whole heartedly. When they swoop in to a small town and drive all of the mom and pop shops out they now have the responsibility of offering all items that would have been offered in an open market. It is the only responsible thing to do.

GTA IV, remember GTA IV? That is what started this whole rant. It is the most immersive video game I have ever played. There is something truly addictive about it. It is harder to put down than.... Well anything I have ever played. The people at rock star and take 2 interactive have delivered the best over all gaming experience ever!