Rockstar had this game under a tight leash. Those who were privy to a review had to do so in very controlled conditions. Basically, Rockstar had it tied up from the get go, if this game didn't get a major score from whoever they gave access to it early on, you didn't get to release that review. Now, from there, having a game that gets early high scores creates a synergy, very few guys want to be the odd man out in all the hype, because that's the condition this current industry has created for itself.
Now, GTA4 isn't a bad game, I enjoy it to some degree. But there are issues that I have with it. I think it's unfair to me, and others that would purchase it, to have info withheld of items that I should be cautious of after purchasing the game. GTA is already an established series, so scores shouldn't really be an issue to anyone but the internet crowd. Reviewers don't need to drink the kool-aid when it comes to bringing you info, they do us more of a favor by bringing up proper concern, instead of sounding like a mouthpiece of the game's PR.
