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3rd best GTA

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 3 / 39
Date: June 06, 2006
Author: Amazon User

Grand Theft Auto is one of the nations most popular series because of the violence,when i was a kid violent games were Doom,Duke Nukem,Wolfenstein 3D tose were bloody as hell games,This is a Great GTA game becuase Liberty City is were the GTA series started it is good because People couldn't buy PSP's and they were die hard fans of the series so this is a chance for them to play it.:p

Back home again!!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 45 / 54
Date: June 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

I don't own a PSP so I didn't pay much attention to Liberty City Stories when it first came out. I just happened to see it today and picked it up. For $20, why not?

Have you ever moved away from home for a long time and had to learn new places and figure out new things? Then you finally visit your home and feel that comfortable familiarity? That's exactly how this game feels. I had no idea until I started playing and began to remember the streets and buildings. There's the pay-n-spray, here's Harwood. Very cool.

If you played GTA III until your fingers bled when it first came out, until it got completely mind-numbingly repetitive (or until Vice City arrived), then you're going to love LCS. Same map, but a whole new story. (And directional button steering again, thank you!!!) Plus a lot of the upgrades from post GTA III editions (motorcycles! improved targeting!)

The missions are varied and fun (and challenging). The old side missions remain, and the ability to just cruise around or cause havoc are there as well.

Spend the $20 and relive the awesomeness of GTA III, but with a whole new plot and cast of characters. And hey, you won't have to bother learning a brand new map. You'll know immediately, "Hey, I've been here before..."

More than solid GTA side story

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 36 / 46
Date: June 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

Originally released for the PSP, GTA: Liberty City Stories is a side story returning you to Liberty City for the first time since GTA 3 hit the PS2 way back when. Liberty City Stories puts you in the shoes of Tony Cipriani as you return to Liberty City to reclaim your place in the Leone crime family. You do pretty much everything you'd expect to do in a GTA game: a free roaming city, steal cars, outrun or kill cops, mow down pedestrians, and partake in side missions and the like. Now that Liberty City stories is on the PS2, the control issues that plagued the PSP version are gone thanks to having a right analog stick, but the graphics are grainier and blockier than any of the previous GTA console games (which is about what you'd expect when a PSP game gets blown up on a full-screen TV). The biggest complaint of Liberty City Stories is that the game doesn't have that super big budget feel to it like the previous games had. Frank Vincent once again lends his voice as crime boss Salvatore Leone, but there's no other big names to the voice cast; a first since the series has entered the 128-bit era. Despite it's flaws, Liberty City Stories is more than worth the budget price tag, and it's a worthy distraction for fans until GTA 4 comes out for next-gen consoles.

Liberty City: the home that was everso sweet

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 9 / 11
Date: June 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

I have been waiting for this day since I first found out "Liberty City Stories" would be releasing on the PSP console, knowing full well that I wouldn't be handing over two hundred and fifty-five dollars for one game. Regarding the game itself, I had heard of its storyline from everywhere, and always wanting to try it, I knew it'd never be, because let's face it: the PSP console isn't really that wonderful.

I heard that the game's protagonist was none other than the mama's boy himself, Toni Cipriani, and immediately I felt envious because on the "Grand Theft Auto III," Toni was one of my favorite characters. He perhaps isn't as silent as most "dumb muscle," but his loyalty is respectable (in some parts, anyhow) and I think he was a great role to be made the lead in this game. I mean, considering "San Andreas"' front character, who was fine in his own right, let's not get all worked up over morality for Toni Cipriani. Incorporating his story into this one, I enjoyed all of his scenes with his "Ma," who was no less than downright brutal to him, in every sense of the word, throughout much of the game, and since I enjoyed the scenes in "GTA III," these were delightful enough as a sort of reminiscence kicking inward.

On the environment: Liberty City has always been my favorite area, even with Vice City and San Andreas. It's the most interesting, has the greater characters (except for maybe Woozie, who is known on "GTA: San Andreas") and the surroundings alone gratify my needs. The vehicles, perhaps, aren't as preferential, or as stylish, but there are enough to make me happy, and in this game I have the Colt Python weapon again, the hand cannon I've been longing for since Vice City. I think Rockstar did an exceptional job recreating Liberty City down to its nominal detail and whilst roaming the streets, a feeling of nostalgia always comes over me, like being in the identical place yet different all the same. From Saint Mark's to Hepburn Heights, the streets look better than ever, flourishing still as, though the time is set three years prior to "Grand Theft Auto III," Salvatore Leone's crew have overwhelmingly taken over on all sides of town. As each scene unfolds, it's quite enjoyable seeing an empire crumble slowly - that's the way I see it, anyway, but I've told I'm wrong.

The radio stationing is almost identical as its original, only different material; the music is still horribly disappointing, but the talk shows are still delightful to listen to. My favorite would have to be the show Chatter Box, as usual, with its best moment being when Lazlow is stalked by the "goth" chick with the creepy laugh; every time she strikes that chortle, I burst in guffaws. The music in general, as already spoken of, just disappointed me because my tastes drastically vary from that of the ones who have chosen the soundtrack for every "Grand Theft Auto" title, and I'm not complaining; I full well know that people must cater to the wide public, and I'm sure they've done their best, but would a true progressive metal or psychedelic song be too much to ask for? Like, something from Dream Theater or Spock's Beard, or Porcupine Tree, or even some of the more publicly-accepted bands like Tool or The Mars Volta. I just thought it could be better, also.

The graphics have improved greatly. I didn't have any issues with the first one's graphics, but seeing how they have been enhanced, it makes for game play to run that much smoother. The sound effects, in particular, are what I love: the assault rifle's ammunition clinging as it heads the soft gravel is amazing. It sounds just like I'd have it sound like, as with all the weapons' aftereffects; it's just all so beautiful. My only issue, I think, is with the methods of shooting: okay, I wish it was as advanced as "San Andreas," where 1) you don't have to hit L3 and it'll just automatically allow you to manually aim once you hit R1, and 2) you can ran while still firing weapons like the Colt Python and other subsequent pistols. It's not as big of a deal that you can, I just wish you could for personal inclination, I guess. It'd be a lot more enjoyable . . . though, with the Python, it's understandable because of recoil conditions. And seeing as how I'm sure the creators have only been trying to stay as loyal as they can to "Grand Theft Auto III," I respect their choices, anyhow, disregarding my own issues.

Well, that's about it. I think if you've enjoyed the previous "Grand Theft Auto" titles, you should definitely give this one a whirl, especially if your favorite one in the past has been the third game. It's intriguing and beautiful and its scenery is so awe-inspiring, one can't help but want to dive into the ocean and swim the lighthouse (but alas, not possible because you can't swim - use the boat). Plus, if you liked the ruggedness that is Toni Cipriani, I'm confident you'll have fun irritating the local police force with your idiosyncratic sense of correct thug-uality.

A Worthy GTA Game for your PS2

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 5 / 7
Date: June 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

When I first heard that this game was coming out for the PSP I was a little upset because I really wanted to play it but I didn't want to spend $300 for it. When I heard Rockstar was going to release it on the PS2 as a budget title I was thrilled!

Liberty City Stories isn't exactly a new game, it's more like an expansion pack for GTA3. All of the missions and story are new but there are many changes as well, such as it being 1998 in the game instead of 2001.

It's a lot of fun going back to Liberty City and being reminded of all the fun I had 5 years ago while at the same time getting to do new things such as riding motorcycles and jumping out of cars. The new story is interesting as well and the voice acting is great.

However it does have some flaws. It's kinda weird going back to the way GTA3 was played and losing some memorable features from San Andreas. You can no longer go into most buildings, swim, or workout. The graphics also closer resemble GTA3 instead of San Andreas. There is no multiplayer as well.

For the most part this is a game that was meant for fans of GTA3 who didn't get the PSP version. If you enjoyed doing the missions in GTA3 then you should enjoy this game. But, if you only like using cheats and killing people for a few hours then you'd be better off just sticking with San Andreas.

For only $20 this game is highly recomended!

A Small Let Down

3 Rating: 3, Useful: 2 / 7
Date: June 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

I was atually going to buy a PSP so i could play this game. I got to save myself $250 now. I Know that this game is based in Liberty City. But I was hopeing for better graphics. The Graphics are after VC (becuase the car engines have more detail in them) but before SA (becuase the car engines don't have as much detail in them. I still think that the GTA series is the best game series out there. I just wish it had better graphics.

A great little package for a bargain at $20

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 7 / 7
Date: June 10, 2006
Author: Amazon User

For a game like Grand Theft Auto to be only $20.00 should strike you as odd. That is because this version of Grand Theft Auto is not as complete as the past ones. Everyone knows the third game in the series rocked both the gaming world in 2001 and created a stir of controversy. That revolutionized gaming, and many followers have tried copying the formula we have grown to love, and have failed. After the subsequent release of "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City" in late 2002, it added a new, fresh feel to the game with the throwback 80's gameplay, new characters played by real Hollywood voice actors and a bunch of new stuff in it like odd jobs, side missions and overall a brand new gaming experience. The 2004 release of San Andreas brought even more controversy, and added a ghetto theme similar to something like Boyz 'N The Hood or Menace II Society. This was addicting because of fun missions, a great storyline, plenty of space and tons of additions that just brought loads of fun and waste of time into every fans lives.

But, after the PSP explosion, this game was granted an exclusive. It was just recently that it was released on the PlayStation 2. It is not well-known about, mainly because there is nothing new to offer. The game takes place back in 1998 and you are Tony Cipriani, the guy who you took missions from way back in the third one. It is the same Liberty City from the third game. And when I say exact, I mean exact. The only difference is where guns and other items are placed. The storyline is pretty repetitive. It is very similar to many other games released in the past few years or so. There is no new additions to the game. In fact, since this was really, as another reviewer stated, a blow-up of the PSP version, you lose your abilities. Those include swimming, going into various shops excluding your safehouses and the gun store, "pimpin` out your ride" and other really great features that were in San Andreas. Basically, it is Grand Theft Auto 3 pasted with new characters and a new storyline. But, admist all the negatives, this game is certainly 5-star material. But if you are expecting something of the past three Grand Theft Auto games, you will be shut out. This game still has the fun blood, gore, sex, foul language and use of drugs that make it fun.

If you are hesitant to purchase this game, then I tell you, go out and sacrifice your money on it. If you were to pay $50.00 for this game, then maybe I would call you crazy, but I say paying only twenty is a steal. This is still the Grand Theft Auto game that we love, and the controls, character models and controversy that had parents, priests and politicans running mad are all back. But, if you have to have stunning X-Box 360 graphics, then stay away. These graphics are not that good, and even though I haven't noticed any glitches or bugs yet, I am sure that they are in there somewhere. In other words, this is a game that if you are a die hard fan (like me), then you must grab it without hesitation. If you are new to the series, and I ask you where have you been the past 5-6 years, then I recommend that you get the prior three releases. They are all timeless classics that will go down as legends. In the end, this game is a nice, little throw in for the series. Maybe it is a cash-in for Rockstar, but whatever. I still think it is good `ol Grand Theft Auto fun!

Another reviewer stated before that the engine that keeps the Grand Theft Auto series is dying. I have to agree with you. I could compare the series to a band that is starting to fade away and not get as much steam that used to power them. The video game world has been on a huge decline since, maybe, three years ago. All games are just not interesting, and they are too expensive and usually are rushed. I sometimes are pulling out my classic games from 5-6 years ago and buying used games to get enjoyment out of them. This is a problem with big markets taking over. Sure, video games were always huge, but now it is just too expensive and m,anufacterers feel that they have to release this game before someone else releases the same carbon copy. This saddens me, as I used to get extreme enjoyment out of my gaming system. Now that big money is in the mix, the world of gaming just isn't fun anymore. As for Grand Theft Auto, they are going to have to release something legendary as the next project, or else interest will be lost.

Great, but not "San Andreas great"

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 5 / 5
Date: June 10, 2006
Author: Amazon User

When I found out that this game was only 20 dollars, I picked it up without hesitation. You should do the same.
I have found several problems with the game, but overall it is better than worse.

The Bad: Don't expect SA-type graphics. Expect a blown up version of the PSP game. You cannot swim, enter shops, buy clothes, pimp your ride, or any of that good stuff. You are not really dependant on money, so there is no real incentive to get any.

The Good: You're back to Liberty City, arguably the most fun and interactive city in this great series. The missions are fun and addictive, and the cars are fun to drive. The music on the radio is excellent no matter what you like listening to.
If you like to do the main missions but also enjoy being a Taxi Driver, Cop ("vigilante missions"), Firefighter, etc. at times, then this is the game for you.

If this game were $49.99 as the other games in this series tend to be, I wouldn't have been as happy with my purchase. But you're getting a lot packed into a $20 game, and I would have been willing to pay even more. Granted, the graphics are not up to the San Andreas par, but the fun you got from playing Liberty City a couple of years ago is back and intensified. Recommended.

Both past our primes....

3 Rating: 3, Useful: 3 / 5
Date: June 10, 2006
Author: Amazon User

When GTA 3 was released,it was a revolution in video gaming.Go anywhere,do anything,interact in pretty much anyway you want.
All of the extras being unlocked,and straying from the norm of the video game hero (doing moraly right things) was also a breatkthrough.

I played through and enjoyed GTA 3 and Vice City,and quite frankly,that's enough for me.I didn't care much for San Andreas because I felt Rockstar made it too ghetto storyline wise.Sure there is some cool stuff added here and there,but in the end this is just the same thing over and over.

Liberty City Stories is a pretty cool game,but to me personaly,
I just can't get excited over this series anymore.I find it hard to get psyched over finding those 100 secret packages yet again.One of the major kisses of death to the GTA series was how they changed the firefighter,vigilante,and paramedic missons.In GTA 3,all you had to was meet 50,60 goals (can't remember the exact number,it's been so long) BUT THEY DID NOT HAVE TO BE IN ORDER WITH A STUPID TIME LIMIT!!! Of course Rockstar cuts us a break with the taxi cab missons,but THAT "reward" is far from "rewarding".

Lastly,the radio station is there,but again,it's just not unique anymore.Also all the little verbal stabs and insults become annoying;one ad boasts "become a cop and beat people whether they're getting on your nerves,or you're just drunk!" Also the stale Lazzlo is back yet again,and one of his
quips is "I just don't get as good of ratings as self-righteous rednecks" Ha ha ha hee hee ho hum blah.

Ah yes,and the story!You guessed it! It's pretty much the same.
In a nutshell,gangster/thug/criminal comes into town and wants to place himself high on the dark underworld ladder.Kill, destroy do whatever to achieve this.That's fine and all,but so very unoriginal by now.Oh,and the hookers are back too and they're just as willing as ever.Yes,you can sleep with them for lack of a better term.-YAWN-

I guess I'm just getting too old for this leisure now and it's time to start hanging this hobby up;these games are quickly losing their luster.If anything else,I'll stick with the classics and cherish those fond memories.

For those without a PSP

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 4 / 5
Date: June 11, 2006
Author: Amazon User

Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, which was more or less an expansion to Grand Theft Auto III, was a grand game on the PSP. But not everyone has a PSP, and so it's now availible on the PS2. If you've got a PSP, you might be better off buying Liberty City Stories there. It may not have the same twenty dollar price tag, but it is the game with better quality. Simply put, a handheld game being ported to a console doesn't work quite as well a console game being ported to a handheld. Still, that shouldn't suggest that the PS2 version of Liberty City Stories isn't worthwhile. The game, upon playing it on the PS2, you realize, was far better on the PSP.

There's not much of a story to Liberty City Stories. After important missions when a cutscene would usually play, there is none this time around. Perhaps for the PSP this was okay, but on the PSP, Liberty City Stories didn't have to worry about the other Grand Theft Auto games casting a shadow. Simply put, the PS2 version doesn't offer anything that wasn't on the PSP. The PSP version could've also used more cutscenes. They were not put in place here. As far as the differences between the PSP and PS2 versions go, there are more people on the streets and more vehicles you can steal (not "types" mind you, there are just more vehicles), and better load times. You won't find any new missions to do. If you have the PSP version of this game, don't bother with the PS2, these changes are hardly worth it. If, however, you don't have a PSP then this is your chance to play Liberty City Stories. Either way, however, it's sad that the story in Liberty City Stories doesn't get fleshed out.

The good news is, the free roam style of Grand Theft Auto hasn't changed, even here. You can pick up guns of many different types. Pistols, Machine Guns, you name it. You can only care one type of each weapon, but each type shares the same ammo. So even if you have a high powered machine gun you can still put the ammo from the weaker versions in there and it'll be absolutely fine. You can still go on a murderous rampage and still several cars. The missions themselves aren't as dynamic as Vice City or San Andreas, but they're still a lot of fun. Like I said, however, these missions don't really help to flesh out the story.

You also won't find a whole lot of interesting characters in Liberty City Stories. This might disappoint those who loved some of the crazier characters from Vice City and San Andreas, but in the long run, it doesn't hold the game back. The cutscenes are carried out in voice overs and as usual, the voices are pretty good. Graphically, however, the game suffers. They look just like they do on the PSP, only bloated to fit your big screen TV. Some things that looked good on the PSP, don't on the PS2. Some characters are blurry and just all out neglected in the detail department. They looked fine on the PSP, but on the PS2, they don't look nearly as smooth and detailed. Does it still look good? Well, yes, but it's not detailed good. That and the frame rate issues that plagued the PSP version are still there.

The game, I'm proud to say, still sounds good. The radio stations sound fantastic, although there really aren't any licensed songs that play on them. Most of them are original songs made directly for the game itself. The talk shows are still interesting and funny, and as I noted eariler, the voices are still good. If you've played Grand Theft Auto III, the radio stations can easily be compared.

The only thing that holds this game back is if you already have it on PSP version. It's pretty much the same game. Only on a console instead of a handheld. Blowing up a portable game to the console is not usually done, and here it works out just fine. It may not look as good, but the control scheme is better and so are the load times. As I said, though, if you've got the PSP version you might as well not even bother with the PS2 version, no matter how tempting that price tag looks.

The Good
+A port of a great hand held game
+A lot of fun to play, free roam is still fantastic
+The price is right
+Faster Load Times
+Better control scheme
+Excellent voice work

The Bad
-Frame Rate issues
-There's not much of a story to this one
-Not enough depth to the missions
-If you've got the PSP version, there's no use getting this one
-Graphically, when you take the PSP graphics and blow them up on the big screen, they don't look nearly as good

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