Depends on the predecessor, but overall no. GTA games will always be micro-reviewed by GTA fans with a wide variety of views. Just google, "Best GTA game" and you will come across many forums with arguments over Vice City vs. San Andreas vs. GTA 3 vs. GTA 4.
I think it only matters in terms of sales figures regardless of genre. There is a certain expectation that sequels are a building on the predecessor and if the sequel does not sale as well, then the integrity of the predecessor is called into question.The logic goes, if sequels are iterations with updated graphics, a new story, and additions to the cast of characters, then how can you possibly make a sequel, iterated on a proven success, which is inferior to it's predecessor?
Games such as Gran Turismo 5 and Call of Duty: Black Ops come with expectations not seen since MC Hammer had to release an album after Too Legit to Quit.
I expect both will be expected to sell at least 5 million in their first year. If they don't reach that, Gran Turismo has the valid excuse of being 5 years since GT4, the racing genre has changed, and it was not bundled (if GT5 isn't). The excuses for Black Ops will be that the lawsuit with Infinity Ward negatively impacted it's development, Treyarch is an inferior game developer, and Modern Warfare 2 was a once in a lifetime game.
Excuses or not, there are expectations and consequences regarding sequels and the future of a gaming studio if publisher expectations are not met.
