Microsoft slams GTA IV PS3 install time in PR mail

VG247 just published the following email from Microsoft UK PR:

With the OXM review hitting streets today, and your own preview impressions which are looking great, hopefully you'll all be a bit wiser as to the ins and outs of GTA IV now.

I'm sure you've all seen the chatter from the 1up GTA IV Preview on the PS3 install time….just a few thoughts on what you could do in this time if you were actually playing the 360 version from the moment you insert the disc….

· Steal your first dozen or so cars and test out the improved vehicle handling?

· Check out the cool features on your mobile phone?

· Rack up a 5 Star Wanted Rating?

· Have a blast of your first MP game on Xbox LIVE?

· Ditch the tracksuit chic and buy some new clothes?

· Unlock your first GTA IV Achievement and boost your Gamerscore?

….Or just start downloading a film from Xbox LIVE Video Store to watch later – check out the latest batch of arrivals this weekend!

[BigKev45]

Sucks for PS3.

[sonarus]

WOW. I never bought that microsoft desperate crap from gameplayer but now i have.

Its official folks. Microsoft is in a panic and they are desperate for those GTA4 sales.

I am really in shock that a multi billion dollar corporation can stoop to this level. I will laugh the hardest ever if the ps3 runs better with installs

[tweaker]

Desperation at its finest. This goes to both Microsoft and BigKev45.

[DomUltra]

Wow this is extremely desperate your right, actively attacking another company, this is low Microsoft, your clutching at straws.

[sammy_mantra]

It is a sign of desperation from MS

see the preorder charts worldwide . which is leading?

a 5 min install for better FR is by no means bad and takes just 5 meg.

It is a shame that XBOX FANBOYS like you post in the GAme zone

[Ariexv]

360 version leads Pre-orders by 2 to 1.

[marinelife9]

MS I know you're afraid of your competition but try not to show it. You should use Dry Idea from Gillette. "Never let them see you sweat!"

[chaosatom333]

wait a sec. What the hell are we talking about here.

Whining about just a 5 min install, WOW.

-Even xbox has a INSTALL time, not only ps3 owners.
-Every xbox member is going to treat the install as mandatory, even if it is optional.

-WHY would an xbox person opt for no install and see gta not in TRUE GLORY the first time?

[red_ring_of_death]

i dont care about a little install time
lag free online game play

[sonarus]

In NA. However even in NA analysts predict ps3 gaining bigger hardware sales(keep in mind just predictions). In the rest of the world, ps3 is ahead in pre orders and even sold out in some stores. Even the gamespot ceo said the pre orders between the two in NA are a lot closer than 2-1.

I think MSoft knows they will lose this battle and they are already preparing their supply issues speech

[gaffyh]

It is quite pathetic that Microsoft feel the need to do this. 5 minutes is nothing to cry about. I swear this hurts MS more than it makes their GTA4 look good.

[Alcohog]

I was thinking the exact same thing lol...so stupid!

[Milky]

And this, ladies and gentlemen, is partly why I would never buy an xbox 360.

[chasuk08]

at 1.5, wheres the evidence ?

[Milky]

And this , ladies and gentlemen, is partly why I would never buy an xbox 360.

edit: wtf ? why has this been posted twice ?

[Megaton]

Trying to slam the PS3 for a mandatory 5 minute install time, which also happens to be optional on the 360? I expect spin from them, but this kind of desperation is just sad.

[neil_1980]

Ok so you could do one of those things if you had an xbox and chose not to install.

How many things could you do in GTA4 in the week where an xbox gets RROD and you have to send it away for a week?

Bit of a crap article really <rolls eyes>

[Kojima touches kids]

What sucks are PS3 owners with 20/40GB HDD's.

MANDATORY installs are increasing every month.

What next?

FEBRUARY Devil May Cry 4, Lost Planet
MARCH Hot Shots Golf
APRIL Grand Theft Auto 4

[Bubble Buddy]

i remember one person said sarcastically about a week ago "Soon MS and their fanboys will be boosting they get to play GTA4 5 minutes before the ps3 people do." Guess he/she was right.

[Ri0tSquad]

BTW, what a big difference. 5 minutes? Whats 5 minutes when your going to be playing this game for over 60 hours? Lol, it's Microsoft's only argument when the game launches.

[keony]

wow...

how low can you go?

[juuken]

Sucks for you the most buddy.
Let's just hope your system doesn't RROD before the title screen comes up.

I sense desperaaaaaaaaaatiooooooooon.. .

[calis]

@ 1.18 - That would be the funniest thing if Sony's PR mention what you could do while the 360 is RROD'd. lol.

[jadenkorri]

whats sad is MS is grabing for straws that they can't be mature and complain about 5 mins, if it was 20 mins then maybe they would have something but 5 mins...cmon...i guess there just a bit worried about that 50 million investment...hey i don't mind...hey MS, Barbie's Dream house is coming to PS3 and 360, pay them 50 million dollars for exclusive...don't worry PS3 fanboys will be pissed and will drive some console sales for your 360.....

[cyclindk]

You're intelligent, can I have some'o yur intelligence?

[Pika-pie]

Installs are the only disadvantage from having a blu-ray drive..

I think its only a tiny disadvantage compared to the benefits of smoother gameplay, watching hidef movies and getting monster games like MGS4.

Id choose a 5 min install over a clunky DVD drive every time.

Sorry MS, nice try but your not going to make anyone switch to the GTA360 with lame comments like that.

[TheGamer]

You can

1) RROD --> Dont read any further
2) If 1 didnt happen then you can insert disc # 2 to test the cars you stole --> oh wait the game has only one disc. They cut down the graphics to put everything in one disc.
3) RROD by now definitely --> dont read any further
4) If you are still reading then its a PS3 and not a 360!!!!!

[Ninja_Moomin]

gosh.

They really are getting desperate

[Hydrolex]

Can't you wait 5 more minutes to get rid of ugly graphics and Frame rate drops ?

LOL then Microsoft has nothing to say

[Squeezle]

Are they serious? That is just sad.

[Genuine]

Lol, c'mon isn't it obvious that they are joking around? You guys are quick to throw stones, but I'll bet you have forgotten these "Sony Gems".
http://next-generationsyste...

[deeznuts]

Of course. They are only saying this because they didn't make the HDD standard across their consoles. It's called regresssion, not innovation with MS. As their original X had a standard HDD.

Nothing wrong with doing it though, it's smart for their business.

[NO_PUDding]

Genuine, the reaosn this is sad becuase 5 minutes time difference for a better experience, for ONE game, is an awful reason to bash. It just makes them look stupid.

the 360 is alwasy gonna be HDDless unless you buy one. That was a mistake. And Effects everythign, especially their cliam they are interested in DLC.

[MADGameR]

NO it does'nt suck for PS3 owners. But it DOES suck for 360 owners why? Because the PS3 HDs are REMOVABLE AND upgradable to BIGGER storage! 360 does'nt...simple as that!

[SeanScythe]

Sigh must suck to be a 360 owner when the only bragging rights are, I can steal a car before your game starts. he-he-he-he

Well at least my game will run smoother and better.

[Homicide]

QFT! The PS3 version runs smoother and looks better according to Rock*. Also its only 5 minutes. With the 360 version having slowdowns, PS3 owners can catch up.

[Deadman64]

I agree. this article is absolutely retarded. I will be doin the install on my 360. it just makes more sense that it will run better with an install.

And we do have bragging rights as we will get two+ sick DLCs

[Qbanboi]

Man, this does it. I'm getting the Ps3 version now. MS just seen too desperate. MS, if you bought the DLC and you are so damn sure you will sell more, why should you kill on the Ps3 version for only having 5 minute install. You just lost 60 buck with me.

[RobotIsTheFuture]

I'm Not On MS Side But...(LOL)Wouldn't U Sh!t Ur Pants If U Spend 50Mill' 'n U Kno U Ain't Gonna Get 'Em Back? ...Yeah I Thought Tha Same. That Was A Very Stupid Move. They Could TRY To Fix The X360, 'n Drop Some Hott Games But Naww, They Thought They Could Make A Bill' w/ Some DLC. They've Made Lotta Mistakes Lately... I'm Not Happy Bout It, But I'm Not Sad Either... I've Always Backed Up Sony Cause They're The One I've Always Trusted, The Times I Felt They Let Me Down; They Actually Fixed Whatever It Was 'n Made Me Happy Again... They Ain't Perfect. Nobody Is, But They Make Take Some Good Desicions Most Of The Times. T/C Everybody 'n Enjoii Ur Games No Matter What Console U Have. U Deserve It...

EDIT: Whoa! This Guy From MS Is Just Plain Stupid... What Is That!? He Shoulda Put "-Payin Another $50 Bucks For The Membership So U Can Have Non-Stop GTA:IV Online Play" C'mon 5Mins Ain't 5Days... I Thought In Gettin' An XB360 Once But After I Researched That U Had To Pay $50 For Online + That I Might Need Another HDD Cause I'll Fill 20GB In A Month; Seriously + ¿Is It Truth That U Get The RRoD By Playin Online? ¿Or U Get It Offline Too?... IDK I Just Like The PS3 Way More For So Many Things That I Don't Need To Mention 'Cause Most Of Us Know 'Em Already...

ONE MORE TIME: ***Enjoii Ur Games No Matter What Console U Have. U Deserve It...***

[RobotIsTheFuture]

Aww Somebody ToOk One Of My Bubbles... I Made My Account Today :( (LOL)

[Nostradamus]

That is an amazing talent you have, capitalizing the first letter in each word; regardless of its order in the sentence!

There is something fishy about you.

[PiTCHBLaCK]

I use to type like this.
d*mn now I know how hurtfull it was!.

[RobotIsTheFuture]

LOL, Thanks Ya'll... Yeah I Like Writin' Like That XD. Somethin Fishy??? ¬_¬ Hmm... ROFL Naww It's All GoOd. Ya'll Know What? Imma Get Both Of Ya'll Some Bubbles 'Cause Ya'll Made Me Laugh. Thank's Guys... Imma Track Ya'll ToO. See Ya'll 'Round.

¬_¬ [Almost I Get Caught, Naww] XD

***Enjoii Ur Games No Matter What Console U Have. U Deserve It...***

[LJWooly]

Don't worry mate. Nothing wrong with having a unique writing style. Whether it's Dark Sniper's great use of third person, or Bladestar's constant use of "...", it's all good :)

[Harry190]

to fix the glitches and frame rate issues?
My HDD?

[wetowel]

LOL this only shows how desperate MS is.

Id take a 5 min install for smoother game play over no install and choppier frames anyday.

[THC CELL]

HAHAH M$ u need to try harder man.

PS3 ftw

[Jack Meahoffer]

Guess the only reason you're making excuses and saying MS is desperate is because you HAVE NO CHOICE. YOU HAVE TO DO THE INSTALL so what else can you do but defend it.

Having the OPTION is always better than being forced doesn't matter if its 5 minutes or 20 minutes like DMC4.

Its obvious Bluray is causing this limiation yet you fanboys just won't admit it. Keep falling back on "lazy developers"... Yeah the great Rockstar is lazy. So lazy they've developed the best, highest selling games released in 7 years.

BTW when is Bluray going to actually prove its worth? So far the PS3 blockbuster games have been VERY short... Heavenly Sword and Uncharted were LESS than ten hours of game play. How long is MGS4 with that 50gb bluray disk? So far bluray has done nothing but allow developers to put all languages on one disk. Not a benefit to gamers at all. Yeah a couple of 360 PRGS have been multi disk... I get that but I'm talking abouts PS3 games. Where is the benefit?

[Pain]

1 , Capcon is on Record saying Blu ray is NOT inferior to DVD far from it kid, DVD reads out to in, Blu-ray reads In to Out .

and since most games are Held back so that XBox can still play them the Superior Console gets the shaft. ie GTA4 and all Ports

2. GTA 4 install is a GOOD thing Moron, ill bet u your 3rd xbox that u and every bot with HD space will INstall it.

3. U always bring up Launch Games being short, how bout u talk about the 2nd gen games not needing BD hmm....

4. time for u to go get paid for all that M$ FUD they pay u to spew, u can use it to buy the PS3 version we all now u going to get, cuz u want to play it online for FREE and not have a case a RROD..

[Sir Ken Kutaragi 1]

...Watch your House Burn down to the ground!!! ;-D

[Jack Meahoffer]

"Jack u speak like u Retarded.."

Wow way to prove your point in one sentence! Nice grammar for someone saying another person "speak" retarded.

In all the text you said nothing. You didn't answer one of my points but just rambled more of your fanboy FUD.

I NEVER SAID the install was a bad thing. I SAID MANDATORY INSTALLS ARE A BAD THING. Learn to read before you try and call someone out little man. Maybe try again this time actually countering my points.

What PS3 game has benefited from Bluray so far?

No matter what your twisted fanboy brain thinks PS3 exclusive games are not "gimped" to play on the 360 so that point is well... retarded.

[eagle21]

They are mad they have the momentum of a newborn snail. They are mad that Sony is "stealing" their fans. BOOO HOOO cry babies! :)

[Teijo]

they forgot:

- call Microsoft service and report the RROD.

[captainjy]

"...Watch your House Burn down to the ground!!! ;-D "

Keep in mind, the POS3 has burned down a few houses, too. Not to mention, it's burned down a lot of gamer's hopes, as well.

Does this surprise anyone that the POS3 version is inferior? Here we go again, another game that has a waiting room before you can play it on the POS3. Nice move by all. But hey, don't whine at us because you made a chitty choice when bought a POS3.

[ravinshield]

oblivion...4.6gb required
sony may cry 4...4.7gb-20 min install
full auto 2...1.7gb required
spider man 3...2.3gb-five min install
hot shot golf...5gb-five min install
skate...2.5gb--five min install
rainbow six vegas 2...3.4gb required
wwe smackdown vs raw 2008....2.3gb required
F.E.A.R...2.5gb required
NBA 07....3gb-ten min install
lost....3.6gb---six minute install
conflict denied ops...2.5gb required
beowulf---2.5gb---five minute install
GT prologue--5349MB..13 minutes install
Quake=4.1 GB install
NOW GTA 4...5 min install.

Thats more than 45 GIGS.WOW.hope you didnt buy a 40 gig
WEll all i got to say is
WAIT B3YOND or INSTALL BEYOND

[BrianC6234]

What is Microsoft thinking? They aren't. While the PS3 requires an install it's an option on the 360 and a recommended option. It's only an option on the 360 because all 360s don't have hard drives. If they did the 360 version would also require an install. Silly Microsoft.

[lawman1108]

Ha-ha

[themyk]

i wonder why microsoft is even giving you the option to install? i mean if not installing it like OMG the best way to play the game ever. their probably giving you the option because installing it is going to make it run that much better. only they have to give you guys the option because of obvious reasons. so do yourself a favor and install it if you have an hdd.

now lets see all the disagree's i get.

[jacobdevos]

mgs4 = 50gb, and was supposed to be bigger to include all features

that is why you wont get it on your 360

and thus, bluray proved its worth

as far as the option to install, definately true that the option is great
however. we will see how much of an 'option' it really is when there have already been reports of the game running poorly without a hard disk.
and in that sense.. isn't installing the only option?

tell me as a gamer, that you won't install gta on your 360's hard disk.
you will, you know you will, because you know performance matters.

[Zuhk]

It's very funny when I see M$ fanboi's attacking everything little thing they can find about the PS3 and this one has always been a desperate attack. I would rather have to install a game and wait 5 minutes to play it than be FORCED to PAY to play the game online that you already paid for once. Not to mention getting reamed for accessories that come standard with not only the PS3, but the Wii, and MF'ing DS!!! Are you kidding me!?
Pay Beyond!

[Area_51]

you think they would keep there mouth shut, being that hundreds if not Thousands will recieve the RROD and not be able to play this game for weeks not 5mins.

[liquidsnake]

Very lol indeed.

[kingOVsticks]

sooner or later once the game is released some dbag at some dbag site are going to make a video showing how far they gotten into gta 4 on the 360 while the PS3 is still installing.then it will be posted on N4g reaching record high comments.(sigh) stupid fanboys are giving gamers a bad look

[Truplaya]

So microsoft have done some marketing and are trying to get people to buy their version over the PS3, maybe Sony should do the same

[Mr PS3]

· Steal your first dozen or so cars and test out the improved vehicle handling?

· Check out the cool features on your mobile phone?

· Rack up a 5 Star Wanted Rating?

· Have a blast of your first MP game on Xbox LIVE?

· Ditch the tracksuit chic and buy some new clothes?

· Unlock your first GTA IV Achievement and boost your Gamerscore?

We all know the Bots will never get this far into the game without thier God Damm Contraption of a so called game's console Blowing up on thier Candy Ass's

Oh and don't forget you loose anyway Xbot SUCKA'S !!
You know why ?

Cause you aint playing GTA4 on the PS3

[Z F1GHT3RS]

i am not going to wait 10 minutes either.

install beyond the super CELL, buuuuu-ray

[Deadman64]

we loose? dam....

[Ric Flair]

.

[DomUltra]

Why play it on the Xbox 360 if its gonna burn your house down?

@ Below

LMFAO @ RUMOURS THAT YOU BELIEVE IS TRUE LLOOOOL.

[Deadman64]

Why play on 360 when you can play on PS3 and not get vice city size DLC?

[BrianC6234]

"Why play on 360 when you can play on PS3 and not get vice city size DLC?"

That's a lie. Nobody has shown anything about what the 360 DLC will be. You know why? Because it's very, very mediocre. It's a couple dumb missions and a fancy suit. And cost $20. What a waste.

[criticalzero]

M$ are talking like there is gonna be a time restraint on GTA....Fuk it...I have my whole life time to play the game...5 min late isn't gonna make a drastic difference

[TheREALHarryEtTubMan]

HAHA They aer scared. It's so funny. They are going to lose, BAD.

They are scared. They are terrified. PS3 has outsold the FLOPbox by almost 100k so far this year in just America and MUCH MUCH more in Europe and Japan... did you forget that Microsft wishes they were doding that... and Xbox 360 is cheaper. They are scared becasue they know HOW WELL GTA 4 is going to do on the PS3(as far as selling consoles worldwide)

Notice Sony isn't saying anything, yet hey have a WAYYYY more expenisve product to sale? Sony KNOW they are going to win.

Get over it XBOT. Xbox 360 is garbage and selling like garbage in every country all over the world. A 5k victroy is NOTHING when Sony isn't EVEN TRYING to win yet hahahahahaha and winning every where else in world.... also still outselling the 360 so far this year in the U.S.

Why else are the saying these crazy Press releases that aren't even true. PS3 IS BRAND NEW. It's going to do what PS3 does... Microsft HAS NO CONTROL over the 100+ million consoles Sony is goign to sale and how CRAPPY the Xbox 360 is ALREADY SELLING. People don't want the 3fixme.

[Z F1GHT3RS]

whos scared.
why would i be scared of a game.
only a cyber butt muncher like you would think any body is scared of a video game.

[davekaos]

Complete f*cking idiot

[kevanio09]

..in the time it takes the ps3 version to install i will be

installing the game on my 360 HDD lol

[jackdoe]

I'm weary about the validity of this "Microsoft PR" letter. Seems a bit too fanboyish. 1up NEVER mentioned install times in the preview. The install times were mention on a FORUM post. PR is never this idiotic. Sounds FAKE. Read it. It sounds suspicious.

[Surfman]

ah cmon, i dont care about a wait-time for installing.

[Hercules]

reading this article correcly, M$ is saying that the 360 has some counter things to do towards the 5min (i repeat FIVE MINUTES) install? one thing, why try to bash if you have the option to install also?

[RobertGonz69]

We will see who has the best frame rate. Can not wait for the flame war on this. Lock and load my friends. You will see an all time high on comments section.

[LarVanian]

Here are some things PS3 owners can do with the PS3 version while Xbots wait for their broken 360s to come back from the repair shop.....

Steal cars
do missions
roam around the city
get into a police chase
play online for free
play the game without having to worry about the console breaking
.........................Comp lete the game

[Deadman64]

& wait for sweet DLC? oh wait....

[LarVanian]

Yes, thank you for giving me another reason deadman.
Btw are you still waiting for your balls to drop?

[DomUltra]

"Yes, thank you for giving me another reason deadman.
Btw are you still waiting for your balls to drop?"

LOL OWN3D.

[IzKyD1331]

hmmmmm, you still have to wait 6 months just to play your DLC am i wrong?
really, get a better argument.....DLC that comes months after the release is not gonna be the deciding factor for the GTA war

[Xiru]

Best post in the topic right here. The more you play your 360, the more chance it has to break and you will be without a system for 2 weeks. 2 weeks > 5 minutes? You tell me...

[Deadman64]

Really mature Larvan, makes me wonder if yours really have?

Anyways, all you guys really care about is if sony sells more than microsoft in GTA sales right?? Will sony pay you some part of their profit if you win? Will I get paid by microsoft if they win? No. Your just being a fanboy b*tch.

However, buying the 360 version. I get the option to extend the life of grand theft auto 4 once it has become boring. But its ok, cus in august you will at least be able to say...sony sold more.

[Teijo]

by the time ur extra missions come out well be playing MGS4 aka. GOTY

[jacobdevos]

a good response to a really stupid PR representative

they should have asked him what he thinks about the length of GTA4 versus how long the average 360 lasts.. and how many people wont beat it out of pure failure rate.

remember it's not that your 360 is or isn't broken
it's that your 360 is broken, and you have a matter of time before you bring it in.

[IzKyD1331]

OMG, we have to wait FIVE WHOLE MINUTES!!!!
ours lives are OVER

[pp]

hahaha it's not sonys day today .but thinking about it it never is

[Hercules]

YOU my friend are retarded as this M$ PR...do you really think 5mins is too long..you act like its an hour wait...and i take that back..you are super retarded

[themyk]

i could care less if sony sells more gta4 games than the 360. because it won't. what it well do is sell a ton more consoles than the 360. that is what sony is going after. and i'm sure it well accomplish that.

time well tell.

[nutjuice]

I doubt it. Sounds like a little kid wrote the email because it's not professional and shows no class.

[jackdoe]

That's what I've been saying. While PR borders on the fanboy fringe, it never truly crosses it; this letter crosses it and thensome. It even bases its whole point on a FORUM post (install times were NEVER mentioned in the 1up preview).

[The Lazy One]

look at M$'s response to the NPD. That's about the quality you'd expect from a M$ press release. I have a near impossible time believing this article. He doesn't even hint at where the email came from, just says "got this from M$ PR".

The only reason I'd see it as plausible is if he has a friend that works for M$ and he sent him that as a joke.

The worst part is, if sony sent something like that out about the 360, the first 30 posts would say "Wow, M$ just got pwned!"

[proArchy]

i thought Shane from 1up actually explained the install differences on a podcast. could be mistaken, i'll try to find it and share.

[heyheyhey]

oh come on, we're not going to do what MS wants us to do an make a big fuss over a 5-minute install time

[LOFT316]

Hmmmmm
What could i do in that 5 mins
Throw one off in excitement cause i just popped GTA4 in to my PS3

[bigcheda]

nice :)
+1 for you sir

[monkpunk1]

Maybe not spin one off because i just put gta into my ps3, but in 5 mins i could probably spin 5 or 6 out! i'm looking forward to having 5 mins spare to do it!

[RiseOfMonster]

Imagine all the things you can do on the PS3 version while you wait for your coffin. o.O

[Hercules]

there will be videos posted all over the place to see whether which game is better..you know what? i am not going to do neither..instead i will just be playing the game, hell my PC may collect too much dust..hell i may even connect my modem to my ps3 and start playing it thru there, instead of wifi...anywho this game is good..no matter wat...and if any xbox fans try to say "the 360 version is far my greater" just four letters: S-T-F-U

EDIT: thats just weak, how can you disagree with me, but leave no comments...oh well

[ItsIncognito]

They should better write a PR statement what you could do in the time vista is booting up.

[DarkSniper]

Microsoft has finally let out it's final cry of desperation. Each last ditch effort has been documented as a mere joke of their efforts. Both versions of Grand Theft Auto IV will have installation methods. It's good to know that the PLAYSTATION® 3 iteration is mandatory due to Rockstar and Sony making sure each Sony Sniper enjoys the game at it's fullest and true potential.

Microsoft gives you "the choice" on installing the game to your hard drive. The choice hurts each Microslave due to the fact of if you decide to install, you will need to clear out at least half your hard drive due to it's limited space. The choice of not installing will leave each Microslave playing the gimped version due to framerate hiccups, jaggies and poor detection rates.

"The choice" has placed Microsoft in doom before, and Deja Vu will arrive on April 29th.

$niper

[captainjy]

So much doom that the 360 continues to spank the POS3 and the Wii in attach rate and outsell the POS3 in March. ONE top 10 title for POS3?!?!?! That's a failure. The only reason why people are buying the steaming black pile of poo is for Bluray. More movies have been sold on the POS3 than games. I can't wait for the 29th not only for the game, but to hear all the problems the Phonyites are having with GTA 4. It's gonna be a riot!

[slowlearner]

It's just business. Msoft has no reason to be desperate, it's not like they're betting the farm on the xbox division. This is no different from pr from sony saying Msoft punched themselves out. You gotta go with what you got and that means undermining the competition.

I know it's ridiculous, but come on video games is big business.

[Hercules]

then i dont know what is? you mean to tell me you dont believe M$ needs the sales? sony hasnt done ONE thing towards M$, but here comes m$ saying that you spare your 5mins doing something else...well, i could list some things to do:

- take a dump
- listen you your fav song (most are 4-5mins)
- watch a show
- eat a snack
- play with your dog
- read the manual

these are just the few things to do during the install...seriously 5mins isnt that long, no if it where 30-60mins then yeah i can understand this article, but 5? c'mon thats just pitiful...oh well

[nutjuice]

The comment about Microsoft punching themselves out was a broad statement in reference to the attempt of Microsoft to win over customers while the PS3 was still new. This email if true is far more direct, and borderline insulting.

[slowlearner]

giving away one of the biggest games this gen free with the purchase of a new console. Honestly though i don't think either company is desperate, they're multi billion dollar companies. One has their hands in all sorts of hardware and the other is gonna make money for years on their software licensing. No reason for desperation, neither company is gonna go bankrupt from the video game division.

@nut juice (i thought i could go my whole life without typing that word) sony's statement wasn't a broad statement it was aimed directly at Msoft, practically an insult of the future of their game development. Maybe you're right, but this is all just silliness.

[Whoooop]

your name suits you up perfectly...

Bundles??... Now that's business strategy. Talking cr*p about another's company feature to better the experience?? that's being low and desperate.

If SONY started releasing bundles with (MS paid 50mill for nothing) or (you won't be able to enjoy GTA4 on 360 due to RROD) or (when DLC releases you will be playing MGS4, HAZE, Resistance 2) printed on the box, then you can call SONY desperate.

wake up buddy... MS 's being desperate since GTA4 got delayed last year.

[slowlearner]

So... attacking me for my name is what then? I just don't think it is desperation, i didn't attack sony or you. Settle down or you're gonna get gray hairs before your time. The only one that is desperate around here is you for trying to insult me for adding my opinion to a thread. I guess i should change my name to fastlearner, cause you can see your bias from a mile away. I am merely amused by companies acting silly.

edit: You know what whooop, i think giving away a third party game for free with a console is desperate. Wake up buddy, sony is desperate, msoft already has it in the bag.

[Vip3r]

Just when you think the communities are bad for fanboyism, its the companies themselves that take it to the next level.

Come'on Microsoft, bashing other will just result in something bad happening to you.

[Hydrolex]

PS3 version FTW !

Installations are always good, that means they have extra things

[Meus Renaissance]

No one cares

[Doctor Strange]

Exactly.

[Hydrolex]

Have you seen Sony posting these kind of bull**** as news ?

Sony sits quiet and always win

[heyheyhey]

meh, every company does it

Nintendo not so much, but Sony and MS pull BS out of their arses daily

its called PR- and its a damn shame that a lot of idiots fall for it

[Mr_Luke]

Poor M$... poor M$... they could avoid this kind of things, they don't need them. OR maybe they start fearing Sony?

[DrPirate]

I'm sorry, but this is the most pathetic thing I've ever read in my whole life. Honestly.

[sak500]

And yet you blind bats accepted the toystory2 graphics blowing 360 games on day one, 4d, 120fps blah blah and other pieces of krap their marketing spew since ps2 era.

THe only thing they were right about "instilling discipline among men and children owning ps3" You guys have learned to wait forever.

[Skerj]

Actually kid, I think you need to take another look at Ratchet and Uncharted.

[DomUltra]

Also have you seen Naruto ultimate ninja dumbass? It looks twice as good on the PS3 than the 360 Version, there goes your argument.

http://www.gametrailers.com...

There even got the link for you, sit down and shut up, everyone is saying it looks exactly like anime, and it does.

[ssbains]

How many XBOX 360 units will have Red Ring of Death when GTA IV is powered up!

So what is worse a 5min install and enjoy playing for weeks .... or having your XBOX360 die with RROD and be out over a month awaiting a swap?

Sony should capitalize on this and have a rebuttal rather than take the high road.

[kewlkat007]

sheesh look now ms is desperate, I mean do some people on here have anything better to do? I swear websites use big games and flaim materials to get hits. Almost like the "TMZ" of the gaming industry.

Man I can't wait for this game to come out....everyone is looking for the littlest flaim material, as well as anything to downplay at every chance.

This reminds me when halo 3 was coming out, which said would be the death of the 360, now were back on the same BS, I can't wait for another big game, maybe Gears 2 to signal another downfall of the console.

Plus I thought both consoles had Optional installs? Plus who gives a sh^t, why are people feels hurt...haha

@Hercules Well fanboys always seem to think there is only "1 Game" that is the say all end all to the 360. Every year there is only 1 game that some say, "that's all the 360 got". Is what I meant. Trust me you'll hear it.

I could of sworn the PS3 install was not Mandatory(article), that's why I said who cares. Oh well, I guess not.

[Hercules]

i never read that halo 3 should be a downfall, as a matter of fact 9.25.07 didnt that HELP the 360, and then have a limit, and temp shutdown on LIVE? and the ps3 install is mandotory because most ps3 owners has over 20-30gb free, but most 360 has the 20gb HDD so the 360 one is optional

[SRuN4]

Desperation at its finest.

[DrPirate]

Pathetic as hell. Honestly.

I don't have a 360 because the game son it don't interest me, but I don't support Microsoft because of crap like this.

People said if they took the market leader position they wouldn't be arrogant, bullsh*t.

These guys are worse than Sony is when they were in the lead with PS2.

[nutjuice]

is market leader by a ton

[DrPirate]

Very good point.

So then why does MS act like they are the market leader? It just reinforces my point.

[The Lazy One]

It's because they're leading in the core gamer market and software sales. Wii is winning hardware by a ton, M$ is winning software by a ton, they both hold a good share of the gaming market right now. If this gen ended today, it would be easily debatable as to who won it because of that fact.

[InMyOpinion]

This is just silly.

[nutjuice]

the game isn't even out yet. And if you can unlock an achievement in 5 minutes what is the point?

[slowlearner]

I know it's completely silly. But i like these giant corporations acting immature. To me it makes them more human and saying stupid things that come back and haunt you is part of that. I doubt Sony cares, i bet they just have a laugh, say "Oh no they didn't", and come back with something of their own.

[Alcohog]

And hundreds of other PS3 users will have beaten the game by the time hundreds of 360 users get their refurbished 360's back from its two week vacation. What's their point?

[sabbath420]

you sony fans should come up with something new. The rrod is no longer a factor, and never was a factor for most people including myself.

[Hercules]

here is something new..the Cell chip is far more powerful than the Xenon chip...and then combine it with the RSX, is superior...if you dont believe look it up...its jsut game devs are still figuring out how to take FULL potential of the ps3..

[DomUltra]

"you sony fans should come up with something new. The rrod is no longer a factor, and never was a factor for most people including myself."

your a Ϝucking idiot.

[captainjy]

Once again DomUltra, you are talking out of your ass. Obviously the RROD issue is NOT really an issue afterall, considering the 360 outsold the POS3 in March. Look at the attach rate and then look at how many titles POS3 had in the top ten. Dismal. Again, the POS3 is a glorified movie machine and that's it.

[she00win99]

tell that to my friends (10 of them) who just got a RROD that it's no longer a factor...

[FOXDIE]

You and your attach rate, your talking about a consol that came out 1 year ahead. That means that it has more software developed for it and that the software price has gone down. So of course, why not compare it to ps2, then we will see who has bigger attach rate.

[Azures]

Have you ever noticed Sony and MS let their euro people make themselves look like assholes?

[kewlkat007]

we will hear something from somebody that works for both companies, not knowing if it's some random guy as you can never tell from the articles but because they are attached to Sony or MS it makes the corp look like, that's what would come out the mouths of top execs.

That's why I don't get my feelings hurt or read into it. Really who the fk is this guy anyways?

That's like a member of Dr. Phil's staff that went out on his own to liberate them kids with bail money, that gangbeat another, on youtube video.

Some people withing corps, sometimes over step their boundaries. Not the companies fault.

Anyhow , I didn't think the PS3 install was mandatory, now I can ask Why like I always do but, only the devs know why, when they have Blu-Ray at their disposal. Plus the game is not out yet and plenty of more reviews to come...everyone keeps grasping at one review, as to why this or that is better.

[red_ring_of_death]

PLACES YOUR BETS
FAVORITE-----ODDS-------UNDER DOG
RROD--------3-4----------360
COMPLETEING THE WHOLE GAME
WHICH WILL COME FIRST
RROD__5--TO-4_ODDS
-------------------360___75-T O- 1_ODDS
-------------------PS3___EVEN

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

OUCH!!! Burn baby burn

[harpua]

good point, the x-kiddies are getting killed in this thread.

[aceman7]

This makes me hope that the GTA4 PS3 bundle is exclusive.

[Chug]

At least all PS3 owners are able to do this in favor of a smoother gaming experience (tis looking at you 360 core owners). This is a pathetic argument.

[whoelse]

If they carry on, people will lose respect with them.

[joevfx]

all the xobts do realize that the PS3 is gettign exlcusive DLC down the lien too, it s jsut after teh 360, so who really care , exclusive DLC is still coming to the PS3.

[Lionsguard]

If they're really going to brag about being able to play 5 minutes earlier then I just dont know what to say...

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

"Unlock your first GTA IV Achievement and boost your Gamerscore?" I would say somthing but the PS3 got pre owned before I came in the door.

[slowlearner]

that you take the high road on an anti-sony article. That was clever too, thanks for making me laugh.

[BardockS30Z]

This is the kind of sh!t that pisses me off. I can't believe microsoft would stoop so low. I love it how MSFT tries to make themselves seem better than everyone else when they are just digging a big hole to dump all those 360s in. this is truly Xbot food. This is all over 1 game, just 1 game out of the many many many games are coming out. When MGS4 comes out I won't give a sh!t about GTA

[Lookbehind]

wow I can't believe I just read that crap.. Ms truely is run by kids.

[cr33ping_death]

jesus christ its only 5 minutes to install......some of you bashing this must have some A.D.D if you cant do some little thing to keep you busy for 5 minutes. as for the DLC i can give a rats @Ss as i play GTA games finish them and move onto the next. sure ill be playing some MP on the PS3 but once im done with the game.....im done. besides im tired of overpaying for MS points that get left over that i cant use.

[sabbath420]

I and many other people like me stopped playing pc games due to the hassles of installs and the like. Console games are supposed to be a no brainer and no wait, put the disk in and play. And just so you sony fans know, the rrod comments don't make any of the xbox players flinch. We will all be playing gta4 for months maybe years to come, and xbox owners will finnish the game fine with no rrod. But when we do finnish the game we have a little something more to look forward to. And you sony fans may also but...you guessed it, you will have to wait for it.

[Hercules]

wait? how about you talk about WAITING? im not talking about RROD, because yes you are right the is old, but its only a 5min install, so if anyone on this earth cant wake 5mins, then thats a shame..but back to my point, by waiting 5mins, ps3 owners get the complete package, with out waiting...dont get me wrong 360 has DLC and Live, but if im correct, dont you have to WAIT on DLC? so if i were you, i would get ready to WAIT

[cr33ping_death]

damn kids take my bubble again..... lol well im getting GTA 4 for my PS3 as i would love to finish the game before MGS4 comes out and i really dont trust my 360 since its probably some refurb MS sent back.

[juuken]

Sabbath, so you're saying that the average gamer will choke over their saliva and go undeniably insane over a five minute install?

What gibberish do you speak of?

[njd82]

I'm ashamed to admit I once owned their piece of junk console.

Ps3 FTW, always.

[jkhan]

Last time I installed a game (DMC4), it looked better on PS3. So I have a life and I have a very social life. So 5 minute wait won't end my life.

[Noah]

This is the funnest sh!t ever, looks like M$ only hired FanBoys.

[bigcheda]

How ironic is it going to be if GTA causes RRODs in the first 5 minutes?

If it wasn't for the RROD, i would be getting the Xbox version for the DLC, but the calmness of not being paranoid and worrisome while playing GTA will more than make up for the DLC.

[Mike Bowden]

(y)

[joevfx]

if people are complaining about install times for games then they are not true gamers and are just wannabees . what the hell, there have been wait time for installing on PC for ever (the original console ) it takes like 30min to install some games and high end PCs. how logn did crysis take to install? are anyo of tose PC gamers whining about the install time once they fianlly open the game and see how it blows every other game out of the water. gimme a break stop your whining.

[nitramn4g]

Oh,here's an article pros 360!! Quick, attack!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They responded to the false rumor (360 version having an install). Sony fanboys have been spreading negative rumors about the 360 version for the last couple of weeks: frame rate issues, no split-screen for 360, hdd install optional, dlc nothing to get exited about. And then people say: "Look M$ is desperate!". Why because there defending there product? The 360 version has more, the END.

[ItsIncognito]

The general consensus is, that this kind of PR isnt doing any favours to your company, it doesnt matter what company it is.

[JVIDICAN]

who let you out of your cage?
back to the open zone with you chimpy

[9331]

Some people do not realize that it is that bad on the Xbox 360 hardware front...even the new machines are crashing...but I have a machine that is about 2 years old...and it still runs...do you know why? I never turn it on much. I know if i bought GTA4 and played it all the way through...my 2 year old Xbox 360...would not make it
...I would not be affraid to play all the way through GTA4 or MGS4 on that machine.

[nitramn4g]

I also have a 2 year 360 and I play alot (10 hours straigh sometime) and it didn't crash.

[JokesOnYou]

lol, these sites are just looking for hits and anything about GTA doesn't fail to get the fanboys all excited, this site takes an "email from microsoft UK PR" and acts as if micro has made a whole PR campaign out of the ps3 mandatory install time, ha ha its just a little PR jab in an "email" and the funny thing is the 360 version has an optional install feature, which micro allowed so that the HD owners would be able to do the same, which is actually a *Good thing* to do. ha ha maybe this site should have cherry picked the email and posted the part where micro said the 360 install time is only 2 min; so why does that pos3 take so long?(I bet some will miss the sarcasm in that statement)...ha ha you guys crack me up, with your whining, you do know that PR people are paid to point out anything they *percieve as an advantage, right?

JOY

[IzKyD1331]

and when your 360 is RRoD-ing we will be able to do explore the game for 3 whole weeks while you wait for your beloved 360 to return...

[Coke-a-Cola]

On a serious note though , I would like to know about these mandatory installs and the
True reason for their being .

[Jinxstar]

Main reason far as I know is the BR disc gets read slowly. If they load the Graphics engine on the HD and then read the story off the disc it can run load that much quicker in game. Essentially the 360 version will run of the ram and disc while the PS3 will also run off the HD. In theory giving it less framerate issues, less pop up and just a generally better experience. If this proves true or not is to be seen.

Wonder when they will have the comparison vids out. Prolly very soon now. huh?

[DJ]

2x Blu-ray overall is faster than 12x Dual-layer DVD.

The mandatory installs usually put redundant pieces of data that need to be loaded into memory on a constant basis (so that the engine can load other data off the disc simultaneously) such as on Ratchet and Clank (120MB install).

Devil May Cry's install existed mainly because the development team didn't have enough time to implement HDD Streaming, and because the higher ups didn't think we would care. They have since apologized.

Now I just bought Gran Turismo 5: Prologue, and the team did one very stupid thing. They installed the HD videos onto the hard drive, which makes no sense since the BD Drive can play that video just fine. The upside of the mandatory install though is that I can jump into a full race within about 3 or 4 seconds. This is a far cry from other racing titles, despite the fact that GT5 is the pinnacle in terms of graphics.

I hate the GB+ size installs, but done right they really do enhance the gameplay experience. I'll probably race thousands of times in GT5:Prologue, and not having to sit through a single loading screen really is a blessing.

[Jinxstar]

Ah TY DJ. I was just trying to make sense of it. Game on!

[Bladestar]

This is all PR.... Sony does it all the time too. Hey... Sony didn't shut up about HDMI and 1080P... well microsoft should use wherever they can to promote the console and their service... well maybe Sony should stop developers from requiring the install... If the blu-ray drive is faster or equally faster than the drive the xbox 360 have; then why are developers (including Sony) using it to improve loading times? HOw about making it optional? Sony is asking for bashing for allowing this required installs...

Hell if I was microsoft I would make an ad ala MAC vs PC where the 2 gamers turn on their console... one of them waits 10 mintues for the game to install and the other start playing the moment he ads insert the disc...

PS3: Hello, I am a PS3... mmm..... mmm.....

XBox 360: Hello, PS3 what are you doing?....

PS3: Running Folding since there arent any good games...

Xbox 360: mmm that's too bad I have plenty of games to play... But, aren't you trying the Metal Gear online beta?

PS3: I tried... I can't get to register... It keep crashing... I didn't go to sleep last night trying..

Xbox 360: that's too bad... How about you play COD new maps?

PS3: nope.. can't do that... not out yet...

XBox 360: hey... UPS is here you got mail...

PS3: yes! is GTA4! That's what I am talking about!

Xbox 360: Yeah, I have that game... is great.. ehh? what are you doing now?.... PS3... PS3?... PS3!

PS3: [Installing.... Please wait]

XBox 360: ... ohh... yeah.. I forgot when he starts doing that he can't do anything else...

[JUMP IN... OR DIE INSTALLING]

ohh and I know someone is going to say; Sony shoudl do it for the RROD... but you see... I never had a RROD myself... but you all will have to do these installs...

[nitramn4g]

And don't forget: "WAIT until the super ps3 linup: MSG4, ... GT5 (82% meta), .... eeeh LBP?". Wow, how come I don't have a ps3?

[Hercules]

why be biased? when you can add to it?

PS3: install complete. hey 360 how is game play?
360: this game freakin ROX MY SOX!
PS3: Well I am playing it too. It is pretty neat.
360: Man you should have been there, Niko had this one girl and....ERROR: Cannot read disc. *the red links are blinking* Please call Microsoft Customer Support for help and troubleshoot.
PS3: 360 Where did you go? Oh I see, Niko gets the girl and they show it like a porn movie. Too bad you missed that part. I feel sorry about your red ring.

-PLAY BEYOND-

[Whoooop]

I sincerely beg you to never EVER, consider being a screenwriter, book writer, hell any kind of writer...

please

:)

[heyheyhey]

haha Bladestar that was so funny and original, i mean saying the PS3 has no games is just so cool........

[DomUltra]

Bladestar you always talk bullshit, when do you not have feces in your mouth seriously? Jibberish and jargon constantly keeps pouring out.

[PimpHandHappy]

the blueray is slower! Thats why it took some devs time to learn a way to use it! It reads info slower! Its not the same as what PC's and the 360 use

Rockstar said themselfs they think the PS3 is slighty better looking so i guess they learned how to use it..

anyway

i have been on this childish thread for 2long. Enjoy spinning PR because thats all you do.

[SnakeShady]

microsoft pr please, do us a favour, shut the fuk up!

[rawd]

haha, this made my day LOL

MS are a bunch of weenie tots

[tatotiburon]

in the last mont we saw dozens of post bashing the DLC, even from Sony, the real panic is in Sony.

[nitramn4g]

360 bashing is allowed on this site, not the other way around. Wait until MSG4 GT5(82% meta) and LBP!!!!! yeh!!!!

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

No kidding if it was the other way around Xbox fans post would all say "post deleted" but this site has always had a double standard. They even delete our post from our news, while Xbox news is 80% PS3 fans. I wouldn't be suprised if this got deleted.

[heyheyhey]

@nitramn4g

why do you think putting (82%) meta next to GT5:p makes any kind of a point?

first off- ITS A PROLOGUE, why cant you people get that through to your thick skull- all the GT prologues have scored much lower than the full game

and secondly since when is 82% bad?

your about as smart and open-minded as your avatar suggests

[nitramn4g]

82 is not bad. It's just that I'm use to 91% games on my 360. But your right, I should not judge the ps3 with the same standards has the XBOX360.

[DomUltra]

Lol, Let's do a recap of those awesome awesome games, Halo, mediocre upgrade from Halo 2, not even true HD (640p) repetitive gameplay mechanics some how scores high just because. Mass Effect while good, suffers from many FPS Drops, graphical glitches and texture pop ins (clearly Xbox can't handle the amount of detail).

Gears of War suffers from a horrible brown filter and more than expected FPS dips in the game, plus screen tearing, but some how they didnt get marked down for it in the graphics section, and a story that's only 4 hours long which is extremely linear, and lots be honest it's pretty one dimensional gameplay, with the hue at negative -50, the game is grey thus Gears of Grey, Gears of Grey lost it's shine when Uncharted:Drakes fortune came around and delivered graphics we haven't seen before on a console, proof that really reviewers say it is the best for graphics: http://www.ripten.com/2007/...

http://www.gametrailers.com...

. Forza Motorsport 2, come on it's obvious there is no replacement for the GT series, a it's a GT wannabe that falls short on all levels but, grasping at straws like most do, they gave it a high score, sympathy vote anyone?

The only true game that comes without bias/fanboyism is Bioshock, it was done dead on.

[ChanDangle]

Funny seeing Microsoft acting like their fanboys.

[IzKyD1331]

dont lie, EVERY 360 owner will do the optional install, it makes the FR better supposedly....you guys are so desperate to play GTA IV that you cant wait 5 minutes to get the best experience possible?

[harpua]

M$ = desparate

[enigmaticheretic]

It's five minutes you people are acting like its a long time to download people don't know how to be patient if it helps the game run smoother I'm fine with that it doesn't bother me at all.

[Wolf873]

M$ is quiet scared from the looks of it. Who's the one tryin' to steal competition's base now, eh? Hypocrites. They'll stoop to any level to get more people to like their console. Have some dignity M$.

[Obama]

Optional install? Don't install and you get pop ups and framerate problems. In any case, the install for the 360 is optional because the core doesn't have a standard harddrive.

[rawd]

Its too bad the Xbox360 doesn't have the system option to 'Not Suck'

[DomUltra]

"Its too bad the Xbox360 doesn't have the system option to 'Not Suck'"

Lmao!

[Mike Bowden]

I don't think anyone knows what the install does and if the game will run poorly without it. You're just guessing in order to make an argument.

[Adamalicious]

Why do they have a question mark after each bullet item? Are they not sure? Do they just fail at grammar?

It does come off as pretty lame - trying to get the media to make hay over a very minimal install. Makes them sound pretty worried.

[Ru]

The Gamer Zone is for members who want a more friendly and civilized discussion. This section is heavily moderated by the N4G staff, so leave your fanboyism at the door please. Members who are unable to behave in a mature and respectful manner will be temporarily or permanently restricted from posting in the Gamer Zone. Using words such as Xbots and Sony droids, or other words from the console war vocabulary, is strictly prohibited in this Zone.

If you cannot follow these guidelines then post your comments in the Open Zone

[zypher]

everyone knows that the 360 version's install isn't mandatory because there are tons of poor souls who were stooped into the whole "360 at a mass market price" nonsense and bought gimped 360 Core/Arcades without hdds. now these same poor souls will have inferior versions of GTA IV, that is unless they upgrade their systems with the outlandishly priced hdds you sell. and even the people who have 360 Pro and Elite would be fools not to opt for the optional install, as i heard it increases framerates and draw distances, eliminates pop-ins and decreases load times.

[Saint Sony]

All this PS3 fanboy whine makes the decision easier. I will buy this for 360 just for better MP company if nothing more.

[Xiru]

This is so dumb. Why attack a 5 minute install? 5 minutes is literally nothing. Especially if it helps frame rate and pop up issues. I am glad I am buying the PS3 version if for no other reason than MS doesn't deserve my money.

[okcomputer]

Is that actually from microsoft and not some fanboy site? If it is thats pretty pathetic. I'm gettingthe 360 version for the dlc only. If it wasn't for that I'd get the ps3 version. I really couldn't care less about the five minute install time.

[dfire1212]

this PR guy whines more than my son does. fukin grow up already

[beans]

If these words were from Sony I'm sure there would be a different tone right now!

[zypher]

not sure about everyone else, but if Sony had said something as stupid my reaction would've been the same. however, the point is Sony didn't say this; Microsoft did. and it brings into question the validity of every other statement they've made about GTA IV PS3 vs. 360.

[beans]

I'm not evading anything Zypher but what I am doing is pretty much telling it like it is! Some of youor most of you take this gaming stuff way to serious by the way!

[macalatus]

@sak o' sh!t,

"THe only thing they were right about "instilling discipline among men and children owning ps3" You guys have learned to wait forever."

I find this quite ironic coming from a person who probably had his "RROD casualty" 360 replaced by MS with a refurbished 360 (which probably came from a dude who never washes his hands after using the toilet). So yeah...MS itself tells you to shut up and accept a refurbished 360...or plunk down an extra $100 extended warranty from your retail store.

[Mike Bowden]

...or give you a 3 year free warranty against RRoD...

[xg-ei8ht]

I'll say this once more.

The PS3 version looks better. You'll notice as soon as u play it.

The ps3 has more going on per scene.

The ps3 is the smoothest version.

THe 360 is the only console that does rrod. Congrats and enjoy!!

[V0LT]

Just think of all the things you can do when you get an RRoD! And they are picking on the PS3 install times. LOL!

If anything GTA is going to cause more RRoD's because of the time ppl will spend playing this game...

LOL!

[SL1M DADDY]

"MS version outsells the PS3 version."

PR Rep: Well of course it did, we have downloadable content!!!11

SL1M: So it had nothing to do with the larger install base and that the 360 has been out for over a year longer than the PS3?

PR Rep: No, of course not. We're in the lead due to people that love us!

SL1M: Even those suffering from RROD?

PR Rep: *shakes*

Sl1M: Well?

RP Rep: But, but... I'M A PEOPLE PERSON MAN!!!

SL1M: *sigh*

MS PR Reps suck. What do you call 100,000 MS PR Reps chained to the bottom of the ocean?

- A good start.

[4D]

Dear SDF:

It's sad enough you C0CK BITERS gotta wait for games. But now when you finally get a game to launch on time. You get it out of the package. Go to play it. and guess what. Your still waiting. LMAO. Idiots. You waited a year longer for the PS3 instead of buying a 360. Waited for force feedback. Waited for PSN to not suck. Still waiting for Home. Still waiting for in game XMB and in game communication. Waiting for 4D. Waiting for the cure for Cancer.

Damn you guys are patient.

The 360 version will be just fine. I could care less about RROD because I have never experienced it. I wont have to replace my controller. I will actually be able to find my friends and talk to them online while I play this game with them. I wont have to sit right in front of my HDTV when my controller has to recharge every few hours because the damn cable was too small. I didnt pay $600.00 for a Blu-Ray player. I got HD cables in the box when I bought my console. My console never collected dust because I have had great games available since I bought it, and they keep on rolling in.

In other words. SUCK IT. You guys lost. Get OWNED!!!!!

[Deadman64]

I agree. We have been playing hits for years now.

[achira]

.... roddddd.

[PimpHandHappy]

we have ingame commucation dumb azz. Its called a mic! Its cross game we dont have. I guess your not waiting on the cure for cancer huh? I guess you dont think its worth working on? Thats cool! Go play your 360 and 4get there is a whole other world out side besides the fast food joints and gas stations you probaly drive by daily

If installing the games means it suffers from less frame drops and gives the colors a more life like look then yea its well worth 5min. WELL WORTH IT!!!! Its funny because i would have thought 360 gamers are also big PC gamers and they would know almost every PC game has you install.

go play this game on your launch 360 with its memory card and tell me how it runs!

its funny what a win will do for you ppl. Whats even more funny it wasnt even a win! Anything under 300,000 sold is not doing so hot. Atleast Sony has more then one dog in this race

[Deadman64]

What do YOU get if sony sells more? Do you get a portion of the money they make? Can you go about your everyday life 'walking tall' because you know that sony sold more? Can you put on your resume, "I predicted sony would sell more GTA:4's than microsoft"?

[Ali_The_Brit]

honestly xbots..i own both consoles but i know IMHO ps3 version will rock the socks compared to the xbox version, oh WOW 5 whole minutes of installing something which will make my game run better. you talk about choice? HA! most xbots dont HAVE the choice because unlike PS3 not all xbox's come with a HDD so the xbox owners have to suffer a more jaggidy slow down frame rate issue version of gta, not one ps3 owner will.

[wow4u]

No. The PS3 version *might* be as good technically as the Xbox 360 version, but as history has shown us, that may not be the case.

The PS3 version will not have a unified Friends and invite system, will it have custom soundtracks? doesnt look like it... how about cross game chat? Nope.

Also, the PS3 will not be getting the GTAIII:Vice City and GTAIII: San Andreas-scale Exclusive Expansions.

Also, you'll have to use the PS3 controller which isnt as well suited to 3D games as the Xbox 360 controller is.

And, if you want rumble, you'll have to go and buy a new $60 controller.

How's that for a rude awakening to reality...?

Time to stop pretending... the Xbox 360 has the premier GTAIV experience, and denying it will only cause you additional pain. Time to man up and admit it.

[DJ]

Next they're going to slam Resistance 2 for being "Too next-gen."

[hay]

omg, it's so low.

[NikV3]

360 download is optional is because not all 360's have a hard drive. for you people who dont have a hard drive or chose not to install. ou will see frame rate drops and screen tears and im sure a few other things. so enjoy

[wow4u]

The reason the PS3 has a mandatory install is because of the BR drive isnt as fast as DVD and without it, the lag and load times would be "unacceptable".

[Skater]

Unbelievable. These kind of comments are what make me dislike the 360. Microsoft arrogance at its finest. Don't they have some DLC to be bragging about? Oh, that won't be out for six months.

[himdeel]

...I'd love for someone to read me these comments in this thread, I'd appreciate it. But speak up I have to hear you over the twin engine sound that is the 360 fan. And no I wont read them myself I because the PS3 will be on the 5 minute patch update on my tv screen. Oops did I say that?! My bad...

Anyway, get the game on whatever works for you enjoy it steal your cars, shoot your guns, stfu the gtfo!

[proArchy]

you can be sure that the hands-on builds, regardless of console, that Rock* has shown everyone have already done the install to give the journalists the best possible experience. Microsoft is grasping at straws with this. They are trying to throw mud at Sony and the PS3, but all they are REALLY doing is insulting Rock*. The PS3 installs are a developing crutch right now. Training wheels if you will. They'll get smaller, and go away with programming efficiency. But right now MS is slamming Rock*'s abilities as programmers. Which is an awful thing to do to someone that is making a game that will make you millions. Way to go MS, way to treat one of my favorite developers like dirt.

[GiantEnemyCrab]

MS: "What did the 5 fingers say to the face? slllaaaaaappp!"

Nice to see MS b*tchslap $ony like the fugly b*tch she is.

Don't worry the fishheads will be defending this all day long. Now you know why Sony lets you swap out your own HDD because if they didn't people would be running out of space after a dozen games or so. I really feel sorry for the 40gig owners because just a few games and almost all your space is gone.

wait for it..

wait for it...

waaaaiiittt....

MasSiVE DamAGE!

[Nagthragarthoth]

Who can really complain about five minutes? Personally I think pre-installations are a good thing.

You don't expect total flawless HD without calibrating a an HDTV... You expect can't the most out of a Hifi stereo or surround system without breaking in your speakers. You can't pwn the auto-bahn(sic) with out finely tuning your high performance sports machine... Optimisation is part of the next-gen and all things HD or Hi-rez.... Fools are kidding themselves with having the one up on five minute installations... And there will be no sympathy for fools.

[mboojigga]

Sony's Greatest Quotes!
Here are some of Sony's greatest quotes. Most of them are about their gaming division and the competition, but there a couple other gems in there, too.

"Most people, I think, don't even know what a rootkit is, so why should they care about it?"
- Thomas Hesse, Sony BMG's president of global digital business, responding to the outcry over Sony's DRM Rootkit spyware uncovered on its music CDs

"You can look at the software that they sell. All their licensed kid stuff. So, what we're doing with the PlayStation Portable is really establishing a new marketplace, and establishing, frankly, a new beachhead."
- Peter Dille, Sony US Senior Vice President of Marketing, on comparing PSP to DS

“The idea of a handheld rivalry with Nintendo is an irrelevance. Those formats don't appear in our planning. It's not a fair comparison; not fair on them, I should stress. That sounds arrogant, maybe, but it's the truth. With the DS , it's fair to say that Nintendo stepped out of the technical race and went for a feature differentiation with the touch screen. But I fear that it won't have a lasting impact beyond that of a gimmick - so the long-lasting appeal of the platform is at peril as a direct result of that."
- Phil Harrison, president of Sony Worldwide Studios, on comparing PSP to DS in an interview with MCV

"It’s probably too cheap…"
– Ken Kutaragi, Regarding the $499 to $599 price point

"(the PS3) is not a game machine…"
- Ken Kutaragi, Regarding the machine’s beefy hardware architecture

"The name of the game is not market share, it’s how fast we (Sony) can grow the industry."
– Ken Kutaragi, regarding competition from Microsoft and Nintendo

"…for consumers to think to themselves ‘I will work more hours to buy one’. We want people to feel that they want it, irrespective of anything else."
– Ken Kutaragi, explaining their marketing goals for the PS3

"We do not care."
– Kaz Hirai, current President of Computer Entertainment, regarding competition from Microsoft and Nintendo

"I don't think the battle would be any different with or without Grand Theft Auto... I don't think it (losing Grand Theft Auto would) hurts us. No, I really don't."
- Jack Tretton, Sony Computer Entertainment America president and CEO

"If you can find a PS3 anywhere in North America that's been on shelves for more than five minutes, I'll give you 1200 bucks for it."
- Jack Tretton, Sony Computer Entertainment America president and CEO

"The first five million are going to buy it (PS3), whatever it is, even [if] it didn't have games."
- David Reeves, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe CEO

"Microsoft does not concern us. Microsoft is not a technology company."
- Nobuyuki Idei, Sony chief corporate adviser in an interview with BBC NEWS

"A bit pricey."
- Michael Ephraim, Managing Director of Sony Computer Entertainment Australia, speaking about Nintendo Wii in an interview with the age.com.au

"We have a lot of respect for Nintendo, but with a December launch, how much stock are they going to get at a AU$400 price point? What is the consumer offering? So I don't think anyone will do more units than a PS2 this (Christmas)."
- Michael Ephraim, Managing Director of Sony Computer Entertainment Australia, regarding the launch of Nintendo Wii

"Sorry you didn't have the opportunity to buy a PS3 this year, but I'm sure it beats lining up in a queue for hours on end only to be told the store has sold out."
- Michael Ephraim, Managing Director of Sony Australia in an interview with the age.com.au

"There’s this sort of misunderstanding that the Blu-ray disc player for movies is somehow burdening the console with unnecessary cost. That is completely not true... Once we had that storage capacity on Blu-ray Disc, adding the movie playback functionality was extremely cost-effective, [the cost] is actually non-existent."
- Phil Harrison, regarding the wholesale cost of the system’s Blu-ray player

"Nobody will ever use 100% of PS3's capability"
- Phil Harrison, president of Sony Computer Entertainment's Worldwide Studios speaking with MTV news.

"The PlayStation 3 is a computer. We do not need the PC."
- Phil Harrison, president of Sony Worldwide Studios, in an interview with GameSpot

"I have no concerns about the competition."
- Phil Harrison, president of Sony Worldwide Studios speaking at the Game Developer Conference

"I don’t think we’re arrogant."
– Phil Harrison, regarding consumer perception of Sony

"We're certainly not interested in Gimmicks."
- Kaz Hirai0 E32k6, right before showing off Eye of Judgement.

"Nintendo knows its target audience, because it has really narrowed that down; and it’s pretty much defined by a boy or girl’s ability to admire Pokemon."
- Phil Harrison, president of Sony Computer Entertainment's Worldwide Studios

"But I fear that it won't have a lasting impact beyond that of a gimmick."
- Sony executive Phil Harrison cuts to the chase with his incisive analysis of the Nintendo DS in gaming paper MCV.

"Consider the US with its massive land and cheap people. Then you look at the UK - a little island where rent and rates are at an absolute premium, and the cost of people is a lot more."
- Sony's take on the consumers, as told by UK Managing Director Ray Maguire to website gamesindustry.biz

[Nagthragarthoth]

Yesssss.... That is what I'm talking about... AN industry leader who almost single handedly made gaming what it is today who knows their position in this market.

Sony know how to do what they do and do it well. When all the people in the world are stuck in the now, Sony will be there to push the bounds further than people want them to.

I miss Ken... More industry leaders in the world need real vision like he had.

[DJ]

Wow, you really are a loser. =P

The thing is though, even with the two dozen so called "arrogant quotes", many of which are simply just explanations of marketing strategies or how software implementation has zero cost, etc, there's not a single person on the Sony side that attacked a game developer.

Microsoft attacked Rockstar with their public statement, and that is a BIG no-no. In fact, I've never seen a console company ever do something that insulting.

[Fishy Fingers]

Seem MS PR are taking some inspiration from the forums.

[synetic]

or get a rrod they forgot this one

[Delive]

All the mandatory installs combined on the PS3, talking grand total, would stop me from playing for a few hours total. Hell, I'll say a whole day. Still does not compare to the weeks I could not play on my xbox when it was being repaired for it's RROD and when the HDD was corrupting game saves. I lost HOURS of gameplay from GRAW alone. Stop the silliness.

[Mikey Mike]

and do nothing while the game installs, rather than play it for five minutes and see a red ring of death.

[zonetrooper5]

Sigh...I knew this would end up in people bashing MS as usual while not thinking about the other countless times that Sony and Nintendo have done this, and nearly every other company out there in the world.

You know, god its madness to be doing marketing this day and age.

[proArchy]

read 26.2 or my previous comment. what makes this outrageous is that MS is slapping Rockstar across the face by saying, "Its not Rockstars talent that makes this game good it is our console". When i'm sure Rockstar would have loved to make the 360 have a mandatory install, but are not allowed to.

[Fux4Bux]

Installs make the game run better so whatever. All non-core 360 owners are going to do it too.

[Defectiv3_Detectiv3]

W/ a mandatory install it will cut down on loading screens. Think of the time you waste loading a game every time you play it. That far outweighs a paltry 5 mins. of mandatory install. Not to mention better performance from the game in general.

And another thing - I would install every game if I had the opportunity. If you have an XBOX I could see how this would be a problem, you are stuck using MS's crappy HDD that are overpriced and too small.

As a PS3 owner, I have the option of installing whatever HDD I want. I can go get a 300gb HDD for less than a 120gb XBOX HDD. Space really is not an issue for a PS3 owner.

[PimpHandHappy]

you can do all that in 5min?

thats really impresive

after i steal my first car i will take 10min just running over ppl.

MS is evil and full of sh!t

[4D]

Is give your self some happy hand time with your supposed pimp hand. You need a 4D b!tch slap to the face from a real Pimp Hand sucka. Why are you defending a pre-install???

Feeling insecure that maybe just maybe 360 owners will get a superior version of this game??? Would serve Sony right because thanks to thier craptastic bottlenecked hardware and poor software development tools us 360 owners had to suffer through this game getting delayed. That may be the norm for PS3 owners, waiting for games. But us 360 owners are used to getting games on time. So you and Sony can BL0W me.

[achira]

wow, ms is a joke company. ps3 is the best console, with the best gta4. period.

[PimpHandHappy]

im happy Sony has more class then to call out MS. The biggest shout out was Phil when he said

Well 1.2 billion is kind of a step backwards if you ask me..

Sony shows class and MS just shows the world why they hate Americans! We are full of sh!t and we think we are the best at the same time!

and btw

If you can steal 10 cars in 5min then i guess your just stealing cars. I would have thought it would take atleast 5min to run over some ppl in one car!

anyway

this shows a real lack of class and its not the first time MS has shown lack of class or even knowledge of gamings future

I seen a 360 sales man again in GameSpot! This is no joke!

[niall77]

"ecperiance slowdown due to no install?"

"hear some 13 year old call you a F"G for useing a sniper rifle?"

or you could just enjoy your game and not have billion dollor companys poking fun at someone playing the same game there advertising

its a 40 hour game, the first 5 mins wont matter

[f789790]

At least all PS3 owners have a hard drive. Its not that bad to wait a few minutes. It really shouldnt be in an argument over which console you should buy.

[Ri0tSquad]

Make bundles, make price cuts, and spend 50 million for exclusive content.....but don't....I repeat....don't bash the 5 minute PS3 install time. I have waited 1 month for my 360 to come back, another month the 2nd time, and a week the 3rd and you guys are bashing a 5 minute install? If the 360 comes with an optional install, what now? What does that say about the loading times? Probably that by the time PS3 users install it they will probaly catch up to 360 users from them waiting for the game to load multiple times on different parts.

[Jdoki]

Come on, let's be realistic here.

The ONLY reason the 360 install is optional is because Microsoft screwed up by not fitting an HDD as standard to all models.

What 360 owner is their right mind (if they have an HDD) is NOT going to do the install? You'd have to be an idiot not to.

"OMFG I'm not going to wait a few minutes for an install on my 360, because the lame-o PS3 has installs. I'd rather have a crappier frame rate"

So what's really being argued here is '3 minutes'... The difference between the 360 and PS3's install times.

My goodness, that really makes a compelling argument to buy the 360 version!!

In a game reputed to take upwards of 40hours to complete, and many people will play for years, fanboys are reduced to flaming each other over 3minutes!! (Which is probably the same amount of time the average fanboy takes to jack-off to the opening cinematic!!)

[memots]

Your right and also lots/most developer did mention that the 360 not having a harddrive on version was a mistake.
The Harddrive is next Gen and developer want consoles to have it .
Why would we complain when they are using the hardware the way it should be ?!
I have a harddrive use it god damnit its there for a reason.

Soon xbox360 owner are gonna start complaining because the game want to use their DVD-drive......

[proArchy]

"OMFG I'm not going to wait a few minutes for an install on my 360, because the lame-o PS3 has installs. I'd rather have a crappier frame rate"

Solid gold comedy my friend, HAHAA! The sad thing is that i actually know people that are that stubborn

[RealTimeWeaponChange]

We all know PS3 sucks, but it's only five minutes. Jesus.

[PimpHandHappy]

thats the truth

[Gaara_724]

the opening move will be longer than 5 mins so none of the above will be avalible coz u want to know whats going on in the game dont u?

[4D]

While were playing the game after watching the game intro movie, your going to be watching the game intro movie??? Either way you cant defend a mandatory preinstall. I thought these were consoles not PC's. I think the Ps3 is trying to be more of a computer than the 360 ever was. KB and mouse support. Built in web browser. Standard HDD. Ability to run Linux. The PS3 is suffering from an identity crisis. Judging by game sales vs Blu-Ray movie sales. I would say that the consumers are confused as hell about what the PS3 actually is. They just see the brand name Sony, look at all the Marketing crap on display and buy it. Not realizing you need to go buy an HD cable to hook it up to an HDTV. I mean seriously WTF??? No HD cables at all??? Chincy a$$ bastards at Sony.

[solar]

you fanboys make PC gamers fell more elitist everyday. thank you.

[pp]

if i wanted a pc i would have brought a pc.why is it everytime i have to install on the ps3. worsest decision i made purchasing a ps3

[life_sucks244]

u sound so stupid. if the 360 didnt have a core you would be doing the same thing so chill out and stop B!tchin

[andron]

Lets see how the story goes after the launch...

[ack591]

You can also do alot when waiting MS send you back a RROD-repaied-but-prone-to-happ en-again xbox back to you.

[the_pitt]

microsoft thinks more about the consumer, which is why they let you decide to play the game as you get it instead burning 5 minutes into your box' RROD meter.

[CaliGamer]

If this is the best MS has to offer in terms of "slamming" Sony then they really have an uphill battle ahead.

It's actually making me question the performance of the 360 version when you have to take measures such as this poorly thought out PR release, perhaps the future of the 360 version is not so bright. This really does make MS look desperate, especially for a multi plat.

Poor guys at MS PR, you have to laugh at how pathetic they sounds.

[LinuxGuru]

WOW hahahahahahahaha I can't believe how fickle and desperate companies are when it comes to making stabs at one another.

Unbelievable.

[keony]

at the time the ps3 version is installed...

they got a rrod??!?! just a though.

[G1L]

WOW! 235 comments! havent seen that in a while :P
Really this is very poor PR attitude..
Let's see what benefits the install on the PS3 brings ;)

[perils]

shock! sony steals 5 minutes of your life! how dare they!Pretty pathetic! this is what i call grasping at straws. hey they should put this as a feature on the back of every xbox.
-XBOX 360! SAVES YOU 5 MINUTES!
-Er...........
-Watch as xbox 360 AMAZES your friends with mystical flashing red lights! ooooooooh!!

[beans]

Honestly I just wish this game would come out already so we can all play it, enjoy it, and quit whining over stupid sh!t that really has nothing to do with the game in spite of each other! I personally don't care what version anybody gets and will crack up if next generation or the generation after theirs only one console to choose from! It would be so cool if we could play message rather then read them on n4g just to see how stupid we all sound over constantly fighting and defending our consoles of choice!

[wow4u]

The State of the Fanboys on N4G:

Instances of M$: 3
Instances of $ony: 1

A good indication of who is causing the problems with N4G.

[RealTimeWeaponChange]

I just put 20 bucks down on this game today. Going to pwn so hard, on 360.

[GametimeUK]

I hate to sound like a broken record but "gta4 will probably be killer on both consoles"... Does a 5 min install bother me? no... Does it bother me that almost all my 360 games update everytime I put in a game?... no...

End of the day im getting it for my ps3 simply cos I like ps3 more... does that make me a fanboy? no... Its just an honest opinion and im getting it for the system I like to play more... Im in no way bashing the 360 cos I like that too... (plus another family member is getting it for 360 so if the DLC is worth it I can still play it)...

In my HMV I was told it was more likely to get a 360 version than a PS3 on launch without pre order but thats only one store...

MS are trying really hard to promote GTA4 and to be honest I think it may pay off... Sure its seen as a sony franchise (come on gta reminds me of sony just like splinter cell reminds me of x-box) but with the TV advertising people are gonna see a 360 logo fullscreen... sorry but thats pretty powerful advertising especially if sony dont have any GTA4 advertising of their own...

This battle could go either way... both games have slight pros and cons that the perfectionist will consider if they own both consoles... single console owners shouldnt care (obviously)... 360 may have better online but people may think why pay £40 a year to play online when I can play on ps3 for free... PS3 imo has a better controller but over here in the UK people may want rumble...

Now the biggest thing to remember is its not which version will be better... because both are essentially the same... Its what console's features will be better... As far as i know this list describes it perfectly

heres a list of features that will swing multi console GTA buyers to the version they want... all points have nothing to do with the game itself but the console its on

- Pad Preferance
- Rumble
- Online
- Fan Noise
- Console Reliability
- Custom Soundtracks
- Installs

as you can see all is affected by the actual console and not version... The only difference version wise I have heard of is the warmer / vibrant color fanboy crap...

In short get it for the console you like more... just dont bash other consoles cos then you're a fanboy and you smell like poo

and to add for no current gen console owners the ps3 bundle looks tempting so maybe that will help ps3 move more units... maybe the 360's advertising on TV will... either way enjoy the game we will find the answers to all the questions soon enough...

[KingItachi]

You guy are right Ms is getting pretty desperate.

[TUFFnNYC]

Just lost all respect for 360 fannys. What a shame. What a new low. They cannot just understand that the PS3 version is better. DLC can kiss many peoples behinds. Everyone i speak to dont give a hoot about it.

[juuken]

with yet another cry because they're getting their asses handed to them by a console their little followers were flaming since 2007.

Give it up M$, it's over.
You lost.
Go home.
Take the RROD with you.
Give up your developers.
And go back to developing software, like the greedy morons that you are.

And for the record, I can use my computer while the game installs. It doesn't take THAT long so once more, you guys fail at downplaying the PS3.

[gnothe1]

wow, some body from MS(supposedly) takes a dig at sony an you fanboys go nuts an say MS has no class an is desperate an all that crap!! what about the xbox 1.5 comments that were made by KEN K. when will you guys get it!! every company takes shots at the competition. thats why its called competition!! but for you guys to carry on an act the way your acting about this is truly PATHIC, PATHIC.

http://www.joystiq.com/2005...

take about no class, this is from the big man himself!!

[HelghastGeneral]

While i wait for the install i can think about how much more quiet my ps3 is than xbox1.5. Summer is almost here and its funny i think xbox1.5 is louder than my air conditioner. Oh just to warn xbox1.5 fanboys dont play gta4 without an air conditioner on cause you know with this heat you may get your red ring of death.

You know microsoft i think you should be ashamed that the ps2 beat your red ring of deathbox 1.5 every month that is so shameful you may want to be be quiet about your future crying.

[juuken]

Oh my god M$...you're killing me here. I almost fell off my chair laughing my ass off here.

Let me get this straight...you're slamming the PS3 over a five minute install? Holy crap...people will probably drop dead before the installation is finished then!

These guys are so damn stupid...*shakes head in the middle of laughter*

[Mr Tretton]

the install on the PS3 is like 5 minutes. What if I actually purchase my copy before a 360 owner? What if my trip home is shorter than him?

The logic of time here is ridiculous.

Also, RROD will keep a 360 player waiting for weeks. lolz

[kanedaakira]

I am also ashamed to say that I once owned an xbox 360. Pile of junk. I feel used and can't believe I let myself give Microsoft some of my money...Never again. BTW - I bought it for gears and it RROD'd on me so I got my money back and bought the best machine I have ever owned !

[00]

and by the way the title was written made it sound like it was worse then what it actually was.

[GroovyMcCool]

microsoft are really giving away how scared they have become with these comments. this PR guy sounds like an annoying kid in the playground - pathetic. i'd rather install a game to my hard drive (especially for just five minutes) than suffer longer load times for ever more.

[Stagerman]

our society today is so unpatient. good god. its 5 minutes grow up microsoft.

[t-0_ot-]

"our society today is so unpatient. good god. its 5 minutes" Exactly.. But, ya know.. it takes 5 minutes to install a game to play on the PS3.. It take 2 minutes to eject a game from the 360 and put a new one in and start playing again..

Soo, yea.. the PS3 fanboys always say "LoLz U gots to change Cd'S!11! OwNzeRsz! LoLz" But, it takes less time to change a disk out and start playing then to install a game on the PS3..

[air1]

desperate? that sh*t was funny to me, and true i mean while you sit there and wait ill have 5 min. into the game. like if sony dont talk sh*t.. you fans are so lame..

[Sackdude]

Microsoft is so unprofessional, they so panic, they dont know what they are talking about.......

[SWF Joker]

fanboys are the gayest people on earth

get a life

if people choose to buy this on the 360, then thats thier choice

get over it losers

fanboys are sad virgin never had sex losers

[M4RT1NATOR]

Well MICRO$OFT...

Us PS3 owners dont care about the Install as it is making the game run better!

plus during that time.. when installing we can go get summit to eat or drink (or both), go to the toilet, walk the dog, do something usefull which then would be over and done with and the 360 owners are going to be hungry and need a whizz at sumtime so they will lose the time that they have saved while ps3 owners play on their smooth running GTA4!!

[ceee227]

All of the new games that ask you to install them proves that the only reason Sony put Blue-Ray in the PS3 was to win the format war. I would rather have paid $300(US) less for my PS3, and bought a Sony BD player later. PS3 would have dominated the console war from day one.

The good old PC days of multi-disc installs were not that bad.

Am I alone on this thought.

[Big Jim]

Yes, you are. Lost Odyssey was on four DVDs for the 360. If Lost Odyssey was made on the PS3 is would have been on one Blu-ray disk. Wouldn't you rather have your game on a single disk than on four disks? Of course you would. Everyone would.

[ceee227]

Sorry, I'm new to this (double post).

I would rather put my $300 bucks towards a BIG ass HDD instead of a BD reader, and installed all my games on it. I have over 30 PC games on my HDD, and guess what, some came on 3, 4 or even 5 CDs. Once the game is installed, all you need is 1 disc to play the game. The rest of the content is on the HDD. Anyway, Sony gambled and it seems to be working. But you can't deny PS3 was very expensive when it first came out. Expensive component #1, BD reader.

[djroberts]

Then your PS3 would still have more capabilities than a 360 and only cost $100...

The 360 is a rip and deserves a price drop. $350, no brd drive, no wireless, no rechargable batteries, no upgradable hard drive... geez, give up on the "PS3 is expensive crap". Argue about game quality instead.

[ceee227]

Don't get me wrong the PS3 is a great buy right now, only $50 more than the 360. This was not the case when I bought mine. I'm just mad because I feel like Sony used me to help them win the format war. If I need to install the games anyway, I don't care how many DVD discs the game needs.

[Descendant]

Stuff like this actually makes me want to switch my pre-order to the PS3 version....

[ceee227]

I would rather put my $300 bucks towards a BIG ass HDD instead of a BD reader, and installed all my games on it. I have over 30 PC games on my HDD, and guess what, some came on 3, 4 or even 5 CDs. Once the game is installed, all you need is 1 disc to play the game. The rest of the content is on the HDD. Anyway, Sony gambled and it seems to be working. But you can't deny PS3 was very expensive when it first came out. Expensive component #1, BD reader.

[djroberts]

Sony should come back with: "Things you could be doing in GTA IV while your 360 is bricked".

[mistertwoturbo]

Yeah, pretty easy answer for a PS3 owner.

-Beat GTA IV. Maybe even twice lol

For the 360 owner

-Go on N4G comments section and bash on UT3 PS3 for not having splitscreen and "inferior graphics."

That should last about two or more weeks.

[farhad2k8]

I was going to buy both versions since I had enough money but now I aint buying the 360 version, Infact! Because of this stupid desperation of microsoft Im going to sell my 360!!! Had the RROD 2 times and dont wanna have it again so im gonna sell it, and btw, how the hell are you ment to play the 60 hours story mode with the RROD dawning on you?? Yep, be scared 360 users... Be VERY scared!!!

[Neo604]

every second of loading time count.

[daveman3]

poor representation by micrososft, if they had any class they would let something this insignificant go without making it seem like the biggest thing in the world. not to mention most gta players on the 360 will be doing the same as what all ps3 owners have to

[Mikey Mike]

M$ never said that.

[ElementX]

Why does it take 5 minutes for a 5mb install?

[Voiceofreason]

Gimped console. Its held back by a slow drive that cant keep up with the speeds of DVD just yet but SOny forced it into the console anyway.Guess its going to be real fun deleting and reinstalling games for those with a 20gig HD. 4 games and its full. Of course someone will say jsut buy another HD but I thought that was the big thing with Sony. Unlike Ms I dont have to buy a ton of add ons. Only now I have to buy a new controller for rumble and a new HD to have room for all my games.. And some fanboys would try to make you believe that this is "next gen" and a good thing..If not for the RROD I'd own GTA on the most powerful next gen console. The 360.After all it doesnt require 5 gig installs just to be able to play the game at the same level as its competitor.

[yanikins111]

So i got to thinking the other day, what is next gen?
- hdd storage?
- increased capacity storage media?
- Wireless controllers?
- impoved graphics and processor power?
- Wireless internet?
- Larger games (in terms of code size)
- Ability to read nearlly any type of digital media
- Ability to interface with portable music devices?
- Web browser?
- Ability to stream from a pc?
- Online play?
- Motion sensitive controls?
- Unconventional Hardware architecture?
- High definition picture quality?

That is pretty much just my opinion on what next gen is. Notice how few of those boxes the core 360 ticks? Dont talk to me about gimped. And yes i think it is fair to compare the core to a PS3, because MS released it as part of their 360 product line.

[Asurastrike]

Honestly, open world games like this are the only ones that SHOULD have an install. I would install oblivion if I could.

[t-0_ot-]

Do I even have to read the comments? Nope. I already know 3/4 of these comments are from PS3 fanboys saying "but, but RRoD1!1! OwnZersz LoLZ"

Jack Meahoffer - The only reason they are "praising" the mandatory install is because it's on the PS3.. If the mandatory installs were on the 360, and not PS3, then you know they'd ALL be dissing the 360 and the installs..

[life_sucks244]

Duh!

[JeepGamer]

Microsoft is desperately trying to convince everyone of their own relevance in this console generation and the question is... Why? I could understand if they were doing badly but they're not. It's like you're watching some type of sporting event and a strong player keeps trying to tell you he's good... Yes, we know you're good, so maybe you're not the superstar (Wii) but you're still a major contender here... What's the problem?

[BISHOP-BRASIL]

Now that is pretty pathetic... There is install for 360 too, it's "optional" (aka we can't count on HDD on every console) and who cares about gamerscore and achievements (messages on a screen), real bonuses and unlockables for me please.

Not to say that those some minutes would never been even noted as problem (and they aren't) if it wasn't internet... Really, go for that sandwich and stop complaining, you'll get to the f*ing game some minutes sooner or later than you expect to.

[yanikins111]

Complete GTA4
Complete HAZE
Complete MGS4
Complete GT5P
Complete Condemned 2

Complete BS from MS.

I own a ps3 and i just pre ordered and paid for in full my copy of gta4. So suck it MS. You had me, and you lost me with your rediculously useless hardware.

Edit @ Below
Really? My brothers launch ps2 still works. Try saying that about a 360 in 7 years.

[Voiceofreason]

Yes MS paying the bill is just so unforgivable. They need to be like Sony was with the PS2 and force consumers to pay for the repairs on faulty equipment... I cant blame MS for learning from what Sony did last gen and repeating it this gen. Hell it obviously isnt that bad, you bought Sony just one gen after a console with a 95% failure rate.

[she00win99]

if sony can deny that they have a faulty equipment and get away with it, then the allegations is a lie..

[Voiceofreason]

Gotta love you Sony fanboys..MS states the obvious and rather than just admit they are right you try to turn it into some kind of act of desperation..They arent the ones in last place and 360 isnt the system thats mainly bought for Blu ray movies..The only thing desperate around here are you lame attempts at trying to hide the truth.Sorry but they do have a point. Why waste time on installs when you can be up and gaming in no time? Anyone but a fanboy is going to take playing the same game now over playing the same game later.With MS you get the full game experience, better online, better graphics and frame rate.. Well I am not sure on graphics and frame rate but since every other multi plat game look better on MS according to the majority of reviews I see no reason to expect a change now.I refuse to own a MS console but I am not such a loyal fanboy that I cannot give them props when they do or say something that is right. They made the superior console this gen while Sony crippled the PS3 with an extremely slow rate of data transfer. Hell it needs those installs on Ps3 just to be on par with the 360 version. Imagine how much better it will be on 360 with the install.

[samfk]

360 owners wiil probably be using 5 mins to msg each other whilst gaming laughing at an install for an inferior game ! you lot annoy me ive a ps3 myself but its the bull u come out with that makes me wonder!!!!

[RAM MAGNUMS]

what!?! What am I gonna Do?
you gotta love the corporate janitors trying to clean-up the microsoft mess!
xbots got alot of stock on this one since their crash on January 1, 2008.
notice all the xbox news at the end of this week has been from microsoft corporate special council.
where's rockstar? They ain't saying nothin.
5 minutes it took me to type this message from my iPhone. I'm so angry with it...
my hybrid ps3 is too hard to understand, it won't fail on me no matter what I do to it.
Worst of all, I'll be playing grand theft April 29, 2008. Damn.
I enjoy watching xbots get played openly by the corporates and vomit their propaganda. I really enjoy it when
they rehearse it.
5 minutes suck, repeat it for microsoft. 5 minutes suck.
Calling support because you can't turn on your box is great. 3year warranty on a lightbulb & visiting best buy is fun like the wii because of heavy lifting & walking, cool.
Laying on your carpet pressing eject & pulling on your disc tray because its stuck, is a blast.
Getting up to restart the game because "it froze" 12 times in a hour, good times.
the live servers decide to crash & 2 weeks later its back on with the official apology, wow they really mean it. They don't have to give me any refund for time lost. I forgive them.
me too.
xbox scratched your game now it plays weird, oh well trade it in, get another. Or hold it.

But please, please, please Dont Make Me Wait 5 Minutes!!!

[bakasora]

I just upgraded my PS3's HDD. Installs are no big deal.

[jacobdevos]

things you can do while you don't install your 360 version of GTA4 aren't that important, instead they are just slanderous.

competing is such a way proves weakness, just like how mac does it with PC.. well mac doesn't own as much of the computing market as Microsoft...
Pepsi vs coke.. coke owns more of that market
now think, have you seen a windows vs macos commercial? no
have you seen a coke commercial with them nipping at pepsi? no
have you seen both from the other side? yes

it is a very dirty way to represent your product, if your product is good it should sell itself, period.

ANOTHER HUGE CONSIDERATION
----------------------------
install on a 360 isn't mandatory, you know what else isn't mandatory on a 360? a hard disk.

in my eyes that means that the 360 version MUST come with the option as they would misdirecting consumers into having to buy over priced hard disks for their consoles, after their demographic was told they could play 360 games without one.

if all 360's came with hard disks.. do you really think they wouldn't make it mandatory? of course they would.

everyone know access time from a hard disk is literally a fraction of what you gain from an optical disc. a hard disk can also write, which allows paging , etc. a hard disk is a VERY helpful tool when trying to squeeze performance out of consoles that only have 512(max) memory to allocate.

[Lord_Ash]

Things you can do in 5 Min:

- Prepare lots of towels to ensure smooth RROD-Free playing (or to wipe your tears if the trick doesn’t work).

[she00win99]

i don't why the 360 fanboys are complaining about the 5 minutes installation and not complaining how long it would take to fix a 360 if you have RROD.

[uie4rhig]

erm lol.. 5 mins installation ? you here is where i wonder, if the Xbox fans had a PS3 and could only buy the PS3 game, would they care about this 5 mins? or would they be like '@#%$ I WANT TO PLAY'

anyway, its only five minutes: grab a drink, grab some food (your already through at least 2 mins) eat food and drink aswel (another 5 mins).. and when you go back, the installation is finished ;)

greeetzz

[leon76]

MS in its best!!! ...this guys are dirty, they just play dirty, that's the only way they knew to work!!! What's the need of bashing the install time of the competitor? Because they are TOTTALLY SCARED, COMPLETLY DESPERATE!!!!! They know PS3 version will be the best selling version WORLDWIDE, and nothing they can do, even their stupid dlc, they spent so much money!!!!
They just play the same way when PS3 was launched in Europe, sending messages to the guys in the stores telling "x360 is the best, don't waste time waiting"!!!!! Didn't work, x360 is dead in Europe, Japan, Australia and even in the UK, and the same thing is happening in the US!!!! Ahahahahahahahahah!!!!!!!!!

[crippler666]

IMHO 5 minutes is nothing and if it installs and cuts out any load time at all, all the better.

And lets face it, you may save well over 5 minutes off loading times by the install. The game is 50 hours long.

Also if every 360 owner had a HDD in thier console, I would hazard a guess there would be a 5 minute install too.

[awesomef]

"Preview on the XBOX RROD just a few thoughts on what you could do in this time if you were actually playing the PS3 version from the moment you insert the disc…"

Could be the Sony email :p

[kalel333]

I think it gives Microsoft a really bad image , to diss the ps3 install time. And I just hope Sony does not sink to their level by doing something similar. If anything they should just take the hits and let the people see that Microsoft are B*tches !

[Citizen Cook]

HA HA HA HA!

[Rageanitus]

Why do they offer the optional install.

Worse, dont you need an HD to get the extra content working??

I think that would take more than 5 minutes .

As a pc gamer I find this argument moot, console fanboys tend to hit pc on this point, my answer is SO WHAT, you install you gain from faster load times and the abiltity to have better textures in the game simple..... then again most console extremest tend to think shortsited and look for short term gains.

[PirateThom]

I think this is one of the good things console gaming has taken from PC gaming.

Installing to the HDD means faster load times and less wear on the optical drive (the number 1 cause of failures on every disc based console before the 360 came along).

I can almost guarantee anyone who gets this on 360 and doesn't have a gimped HDD-less model will before the install anyway and any who don't do it right away will when they see the slow down.

[the1bandit]

More like PC3 - If you have to install games buy a PC. Consoles should be for shoving in the game and getting into it straight away!

[demonrock]

Microsoft has brainwashed 360 users. Its a great console, but can never be compared with PS3 at all since the PS3 had a year to improve on basically everything. The potential of delivering the best graphics will be shown throught this year and next year alone. Microsoft has made nothing but bad choices, yet people stick with them. The have screwed over gamers by taking Windows XP out of the picture and everyone knows all the flaws in Vista. They have chosen HD-Dvd over Blu-ray and which one came out on top? They panic and as a solution decide to offer Blu-Ray support to keep the console alive. They also released the 360 in a rush to get a larger audience. Any game when designed for a specific console in mind will in no doubt look better on that system, but the potential of the PS3 has yet to be seen. Thats why its more superior. Microsoft didn't go with motion controls , but in a panic since the motion controls are popular decide to create a new controller combining this all into one, that only shows me that they are desperate now. I really don't care about which system has this or that though, I am here solely for the purpose of enjoying great games and both systems offer that, so for that I am thankful. I cannot however, support Microsoft because of their methods.

You know what I have the time for while the game installs.

I can grab my old Xbox and take a leak on it , drink another 12 pack and then continue to take a leak on my Xbox.

I will sit back in my chair, relax while eating some pasta. At which some point I will get up check my email, make a quick phoen call. Play with my cats, take the garbage out, go grocery shopping. Buy a few more games from EbGames and after all that I will take a nap, wake up and throw my Xbox out the windows. I will then take the elvator down while , talk to the neighbors for a while. Check my mail, bring in the paper. Find my smashed up Xbox. Brig it in the house, put it back in the damn closet and sit back down to play some GTAIV.

Or in reality I will only have waited 5 minutes. While I sit back relax and play some GTAIV while my buddy calls me up saying his 360 copy is loading the next section, but not I . I get nothing but smooth gameplay. Wow, I am glad I waited the 5 minutes of my life for this, it was worth it.

[ReBurn]

Would your buddy really call you and tell you that his 360 was loading the next section?

[brothersimon]

Microsoft know theyre gonna win, thats why they trashtalk

[bootsielon]

desperation

[TheWickedOne]

wow, stupid.

[junk56]

so instead of reading this news and typing up this comment i could be
-making a sandwich
-taking a whiz
-kick my neighbor's dog
-look up porno pics

but no i decided to do this.
you can do anything you want with 5 minutes, too bad 360s wont be booting up in that time anyways

[Hercules]

you make it sound like we have an hour to wait...and its REALLY stupid...well you read this article and a few of the comments, then left your own comment...guess what my friend? that took you more than five minutes! if 5mins is going to hurt..then i feel sorry for you, but all i have to do is listen to a song, and my mind will be off the game, until i see "GRAND THEFT AUTO IV" on the screen..really you are all dumba$$, and if i were you i would take advantage of this install, that way you can have better gameplay, but i guess the dummies will rather bash on the ps3 people for waiting 5mins...whoop-ti-doo!!! now when those 5mins are over and we are playing, you would probably not even be on mission yet...and i dont mean to bash on the 360, but i bet you TV has to be LOUD to play the game *wink*

[mmj]

Sony should do one too:

"5000 things you can do whilst waiting weeks to get your 360 back from repair following a RROD...."

...but then they aren't that desperate to resort to such mud-slinging.

[Nathan Hale]

The reason why this is so rediculous for Xbox fans is that they are getting worked up over a minor 5 min install...its only 5 mins

And then when their Xbox gets Red Ring of Death, their like "OH its not a big deal I'll just send it in a wait a month to get it back" Look whos waiting...

Now tell me 5 mins is too long

[ReBurn]

I think it's funny how when Microsoft highlights any sort of advantage over the PS3 the fanboys start yelling "desperation!" and the Sony Defense Force comes out in full armor. Do people really not have anything better to do than defend their choice of console? Guys, just play your games and have a good time.

Personally, I don't think that 5 minutes of install time is that big of a deal if it saves hours over the life of the game in load times. Seems like a good return on the time investment.

[mmj]

Whilst 5GB installs are a minor inconvenience, they sure beat the excrutiating noise generated by the 360's "faster" DVD-ROM all throughout playing any game.

I am perfectly willing to wait 5mins for a one-time install, than to put the game in and spend 500hrs playing with the noise generated by a 12x DVD drive in the background.

The storage space argument isn't really an issue because you can upgrade the PS3 to 250GB for next to nothing.

[TheD_R_E]

If this really is from Microsoft then it is completely tasteless from a professional standpoint. I can GUARANTEE you all that if the 360 came with a hard drive STANDARD, that GTA4 would also have a mandatory install on that version. It's a 5 minute install for cryin out loud. Some of you are really reaching with some of the negative articles on this site.

[boJABER]

*admire the piece of art u have in ur hands
*read the booklet and the other goodies that comes with the game
*smoke a cigarrette(for me atleast)
*hug the game case for 5 minutes!!

[mistertwoturbo]

All this for 5 minutes? I could understand 15-20min for the whole Devil May Cry 4 thing, but 5 minutes... A one-time install of 5 minutes. Come on, most of you are probably going to wait an hour standing in line to pick the game up anyway. What the heck is a 5 minute install on a 100 hour long game going to do to you?

[NaViTo]

Well, its clear that XBOX360 version dosen't includes an optional HDD install because the low models of XBOX360 doesn't include a HDD! LOL It's so simply. I wish wich version of the game takes more time to load...

[bootsielon]

It took up to one month the last time I sent it. What should I do in that time, microshaft?

And by the way, what if my house burns? How much time do I have to wait to get a new house and play GTA4? What if my insurance company doesn't cover Xbox 360's "burnout"?

Microsoft, so childish and desperate, they need to resort to crap like this.