The first trailer was published tonight GTA 6. But even before its release, we knew that the new game would be set in Vice City. It is noticeably different from Los Santos and Liberty City compared to previous games in the series. In this article we remind you what our last visit to the City of Vice was like and why we can’t wait to return to the city.
What Vice City looked like twenty years ago
Formally, the first time we visited Vice City was back the very first part of the GTA series. But few people remember it, and the local towns differed little from each other. Therefore, we will not dwell on the original game, but immediately go to 2002.
By that time, a year had passed since the release date of the revolutionary Grand Theft Auto 3. It has changed the entire industry, in particular, the development of many other projects with similar mechanics has already begun. Rockstar had to show that only they could make a ‘real’ GTA. New game with subtitles Vice City was released on October 29.
The cruel city turned out to be different from Liberty City from the third part. Instead of gray, gloomy skyscrapers, there are bright, sun-drenched dikes and a turquoise sea. At night, the streets are illuminated by neon signs from shop windows, on the beach you can see beauties in bikinis, and next to them guys are on roller skates. It immediately became clear: we were in a seaside resort, which was imbued with an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity.
Vice City looks particularly beautiful from a bird’s eye view. The developers have added dozens of new types of transportation, including helicopters and airplanes. Thanks to them, players were able to see the local equivalent of Miami in all its glory.
Inhabitants of the city of Vice
But don’t think Vice City is just a beautiful backdrop. This city is inhabited by people of different nationalities, views and attitudes to life. As the game progresses, protagonist Tommy Vercetti encounters aggressive Cubans and cruel Haitians, fringe bikers and rock stars with their annoying fans. International criminals with their own ambitious plans and Vietnam War veterans who deal in weapons are hiding in the City of Vice. Printing companies are involved in the production of counterfeit banknotes, construction magnates do not hesitate to physically eliminate competitors and ice cream machines secretly sell banned substances.
Closer to the end, you will gain a full understanding of Vice City’s internal structure. Moreover, Tommy himself will not occupy the last rung in the local criminal hierarchy.
The most atmospheric part of the GTA series?
The Red Thread. Scarface and Miami Vice
Each part of GTA contains many references to cult films of the past. But none of them turned to classic cinema as often as Vice City. Her main source of inspiration is the film Scarface starring Al Pacino. We’re talking individual storylines, sets, Tommy’s mansion, costumes, a chainsaw in the bathroom and much more. It is important to note that we are not talking about plagiarism, but about respect for the original source. In this regard, Rockstar’s developers approached the legacy of the original cinema much more reverently than the authors the official game based on the movie, released 4 years later.
In addition, in Vice City you will see many references to the film “Carlito’s Way” and the excellent TV series “Miami Vice”. All this, combined with the study of various subcultures that we described above, recreated the era of the 80s as accurately as possible. Bright and bold, which seemed to challenge established stereotypes.
And the main character corresponds to his time. They wanted to get rid of him while they were in the middle of closing a failed deal. But he survived, made connections and built his own criminal empire. And when it came time to pay the bills, he didn’t die at the hands of an assassin like Tony Montana, but fought back against his former boss and emerged victorious. The further fate of Tommy Vercetti remained unknown. We are waiting for mentions of him in GTA 6.
Why GTA: Vice City became a hit
The main advantage of the game is the incredible feeling of freedom and indulgence. It was really interesting driving through the streets of Vice City, exploring the open world and fighting local cops. The developers have lowered the difficulty compared to GTA 3 and added more content, mainly weapons and new types of transportation. As a result, they have managed to achieve the perfect balance. It’s no secret that the ability to “cause chaos” on the city streets turned out to be much more important for many players than a well-thought-out plot and references to the classics.
Return to Vice City three years later
In 2006, the PlayStation Portable was released. GTA: Vice City Stories, a prequel to the main game. It is dedicated to the story of Victor Vance, who died during that same fateful deal. The plot explores many of the original’s storylines, focusing particularly on Diaz, Gonzalez and Lance. But we didn’t see anything new in the game. It was a good project at the time, especially for the PSP, but over the years it has become noticeably outdated.
Why do we miss the vicious city?
Years later, when we mention Vice City, we first of all remember the thick atmosphere of the 80s. It was achieved through a combination of elements from a bygone era, colorful decorations and the already mentioned feeling of freedom. We expect this feeling to return from GTA 6. So that we once again want to put aside all pressing matters and simply disappear into the virtual city in the coming weeks. Note that ten years ago the fifth part really aroused similar emotions.
Are you excited about your upcoming return to Vice City? Maybe you have your own interesting stories related to the GTA series? We’re waiting for your stories in the comments!
What are your expectations from GTA 6?
Source: VG Times
Christina Moncayo is a contributing writer for “Social Bites”. Her focus is on the gaming industry and she provides in-depth coverage of the latest news and trends in the world of gaming.