How to Play GTA IV Realistically

Last Updated: September 16, 2021

Do you want to play GTA IV but you don't want to go through killing sprees, police chases, and committing crimes? Why not play it like a normal Liberty City resident? It may seem boring or a little difficult, but it's fun when you get used to it.

Steps

1
Obey traffic laws. Drive normally and don't crash your car. Pay all the tolls.
- You can drive recklessly only when you are at wanted levels or you have to be at a destination at a certain time. Try not to kill people or crash into objects or other cars violently.
2
Try not to steal cars. Use taxis and don't skip the ride. You can also use the subway trains. For cars, use the vehicles you get in missions. Walk most of the time to a destination.
- To not waste money on taxi fees, unlock Roman's special ability (free cab rides).
3
Play missions at a reasonable in-game time. Try doing them during times where practically everyone is available (noon/lunchtime or around 17:00, where people are getting off of work). Large shoot-out ones are perfect late at night.
- Have a realistic sleeping pattern. Save the game at 22:30, for example.
- Don't play missions on the weekends.
4
Change clothes everyday. Your clothes will depend on the weather (e.g. rain)
5
Eat hotdogs/burgers and drink soda. Don't just do this if you need to replenish your health.
6
Do missions once a day. Take a break after a "big" mission. For example, Roman's Sorrow or Three Leaf Clover.
7
Avoid trouble with the law. Don't resist arrest. Don't kill innocent pedestrians or get in trouble with the police.
8
Watch TV in safe-houses occasionally.
9
Make your weapon selection realistic. Have a pistol, SMG, a Molotov Cocktail, and a knife. Carry and use the pistol most of the time. Try not to use an RPG.
- Turn HUD and Auto-Aim off.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I change controls?

Community Answer

Go to the Settings tab, press Controls button, and go to Configure Controls.
Question

What if I don't want to take a cab? Can I steal a car once a week?

Community Answer

If you want to play realistically, then no you can't. Just drive the car you started out with.