As we approach the launch of what is possibly the most eagerly awaited game of all time, many gamers are chomping at the bit to get hold of their copy of GTA IV. But is it as good as they say? Can it take the crown from earlier games in the series?

Many games stores have let it be known that they will be opening at 12:01am on Tuesday so that gamers will be able to buy their copies as soon as they are launched. Rockstar Games, who produce the GTA series, have hit the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 first to get maximum publicity and allow maximum pricing – but it is sure to be launched on the other gaming platforms some time very soon.

Those who have followed the GTA series will know that it has attracted more than it fair share of criticism due to its often violent content and bad language, but apparently it is what the gamers of today want to see. The Series has sold over 70 million copies so far and while they continue to push gaming technology to the limit each time, they have not failed to deliver so far.

The latest in the series brings in an interesting partnership with Amazon whereby you can “pickup a phone in play” and order the song which you are listening to. This will then be delivered direct to your email box for download as soon as you have paid. So far it is believed that the tunes on offer will include :-

• Soviet Connection (Theme from GTA IV) by Michael Hunter
• Dirty New Yorker by Mobb Deep (feat. Havoc & Prodigy)
• No Sex for Ben by The Rapture
• No Fraid A by Munga
• Where’s My Money by Busta Rhymes
• I Want You by C.J.
• Rocky Mountain Way by Joe Walsh
• Stand Up Jamrock by Bob Marley & The Wailers and Damian Marley
• Liberty City: The Invasion by Seryoga
• Vagabond by Greenskeepers
• On a Journey by Electrik Funk
• Nickname by Qadir
• Holy Thursday by David Axelrod
• War is Necessary by Nas
• Zombie by Fela Kuti

With more to follow.

The game itself is expected to sell up to 9 million in the early days of launch and become the best selling computer game of all time.