I agree with your topic title OP but for different reasons. The cover system really made this game great, the driving (while slower) was better in it's own way, it just felt better over all. There is more substance in GTA4 (more variety of people and conversations, everywhere you go looks different, the ability to redue missions immediately, instant traveling, a more intuitive way to be a cop with a computer system, the list goes on).
The only complaint I have is the lack of a jet pack and a jet itself.
This will only take a moment of your time. *steals your watch*







