Is it wrong to feel incredulous when writing a list of my desires for the most anticipated title of all-time? In retrospect, perhaps. But no single soul can blame millions of fans for wetting themselves. Dare I say it: Grand Theft Auto 5 is finally coming! Following months upon months of speculation and rumours and more rumours and even more speculation, Rockstar's greatest franchise is back. Thousands have weighed their opinions, and I have yet to do such a task, so it's my turn! November 2nd can't come fast enough (trailer pending!).
Location
[aditude-amp id="flyingcarpet" targeting='{"env":"staging","page_type":"article","post_id":689380,"post_type":"story","post_chan":"none","tags":null,"ai":false,"category":"none","all_categories":"gbunfiltered,","session":"A"}']Early reports, apparently "confirmed" by Kotaku, suggest familiarity is the likely culprit. San Andreas had players trash a fictional version of Los Angeles, known in-game as Los Santos, and Rockstar appears to be revisiting the metropolis. It's discouraging to see the studio do something of old, not attempt to move the franchise forward and freshen things up.
I'd love to see an entirely new setting not previously introduced in the series, possibly somewhere outside the United States. Shanghai, Hong Kong, Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro could act as great playgrounds for destruction, but the next game will likely take place on American soil. If that's the case, Chicago or Washington, D.C. would work beautifully. Both cities have recognizable landmarks, centuries of history, and are prominent enough to feature an open world environment. Other choices were Seattle, Miami, Phoenix and Charlotte.
Campaign
Not the focal point of the series, but a terrible campaign reflects poorly regardless of importance. I want to feel an emotional attachment to the main character, not just treat him/her as a vessel for destruction. Rockstar is known for crazy and extremely colourful characters, purposefully (and almost ridiculously) flamboyant, to suit the tone of the storyline. A character without basis, without an attachment to his/her actions beyond murderous tendencies, shouldn't be considered as a character at all; merely an empty shell so the player can dissipate real-world frustrations.
A heartfelt campaign, maybe revenge for a loved one, isn't necessary. It's obvious why someone plays a Grand Theft Auto game. But it will show the audience Rockstar is serious about evolving this series, a process it definitely needs. GTA IV was a step in the right direction, and if the developer can continue pushing the boundaries, fans won't feel remorse for their pixelated victims. Maybe they don't anyway. (I know I do.)
Multiplayer
Grand Theft Auto has always been about one man's quest for validation, for a spot among warlords. But why blow stuff up alone? Enjoying the many sultry explosions and maniacal ponderings solo soils the fun rather quickly, and having a buddy means more explosions. Who doesn't love more explosions? The competitive multi-player introduced last game needs to stay. Not innovative, but brilliantly executed by Rockstar. More character and match customization and more unlockables, and fans will be singing in the clouds (in pieces, after being shot by an RPG).
Co-operative gameplay is essential and should be worked into the main campaign. Other games have worked around this: Fable 2 had partners labeled as henchman. Presuming the next game is rife with gang violence (of course it will), gang lords have cronies and personal bodyguards. But this person really likes blowing stuff up. And can magically fly helicopters and operate military equipment. The setting is picturesque. Oh, and all stats acquired in a friend's game are carried over.
[aditude-amp id="medium1" targeting='{"env":"staging","page_type":"article","post_id":689380,"post_type":"story","post_chan":"none","tags":null,"ai":false,"category":"none","all_categories":"gbunfiltered,","session":"A"}']
Downloadable Content
Continue the episodes! Continue the episodes!
The greatest GTA V wishlist ever written. Tell your friends. No, really, please do. The blog can't reach new readers without you guys spreading the word! I love you guys, my readers, and I devout all of my waking moments conjuring up ideas to give you the greatest commentary possible. But I want more people to read my work! Tweet, subscribe, even resort to Facebook and Google +1. I'll love you in return. I make cookies! Jeff out.