I would say MGS4 if only because after playing (and losing) the last mission in GTA IV 15 damn times, you'll probably need to invest in a new controller to replace the one you hurled violently into the wall out of sheer frustration.

I took a 2 week hiatus, saying "Fuck you GTA IV. If that's how it's gonna be, I'll play some Oblivion" before I hopped on the Something Awful forums to find out that my helicopter is supposed to get hit by the rocket and that you should basically do the OPPOSITE of what the game tells you, only to be severely disappointed by the ending.

unicronband

GTA IV was more immediately gripping and exciting, and the acting was uniformly superior. However, MGS started to resonate more with me as I progressed through the game.

Snake goes from being a dimensionless badass to an empathy-inspiring character. Niko is actually the exact opposite. You start off caring about his quest for revenge and the hardships he suffers, but eventually he comes across as a single-minded thug. MGS4 then, is my choice.

[insider.ign.com]

Swift_

@XeO3: I assume you also hate Ninja Gaiden.

Personally, I found MGS4's camera problematic only when I got knocked off my feet against a wall/corner, and the camera zoomed in on Snake, making it harder to pinpoint my assailant's position.
...something which must happen a grand total of 3-5 times in any given playthrough, unless you somehow mistake the game for a shooter and act as target practice for enemy grenades.

Changing the camera angle with the right analog stick, clicking R3 to instantly reposition it behind Snake: how can it get any easier than that?

Antiterra

I started playing MGS4 and then traded in GTA4. The repetitiveness of it was pitiful.

Iramaj1

Ironic. Bash, I am at the VERY same crossroads myself.

However, after some thought on it, I will attempt to finish GTA IV first, since everyone says it "gets better closer to the end".

I know that if I do not finish it now, it will be even harder to get through later.

Plus, I was also considering playing through the older MGS games first.

I played MGS for an hour or so when I first got it and I know that if I play anymore I will be hooked until the end.

Although...I never understood that David Hayter thing at the beginning. Very strange stuff.

Spoony Bard

Metal.Gear.Solid.4.

seriously my copy of GTA4 is gona be sitting real tight in my drawer, while GTA4 does bring the kind of instant gratification that the average gamer needs to survive.... MGS4 is a single player experience that will suck you in.

zanzibarlegend

finish GTA4.

its not like MGS4 is gonna run away right ?
i believe in finishing a game i started before i move on to the next one

Mr.Sad

I've got 100% on GTAIV, played through it three times already, I don't even own a PS3, but strongly recommend MGS4, simply because the ending of GTAIV left me with that "Oh." feeling. At this point, I'm ready to go back to MGS2 in a feeble attempt to taste a bit of what I'm missing!

Unrulybrute

Finally finished MGS4 last night. Wow, what a masterpiece. Started playing on Act 3 at 3pm and finished it by 10pm. I couldn't put the controller down :)

HobbaHobba

MGS4, without a doubt. Got about 40% of the way through GTA and then just stopped playing it. I got tired of keeping friends happy, doing the same type missions over and over again, and the absolutely horrendous combat mechanics.

But even if you do like GTA4, you can finish MGS in a few days at the most and go back to it.

AlKusanagi

Don't play MGS:4, seriously you will be spoiled and never want to look at GTA:4. I speak from personal experience, MGS:4 has almost ruined me for any other game currently out it's just that exceptional in every way. Then you jump into MGO, and there is another huge, fantastic chunk of gaming bliss for you.

No, no my friend don't do it. MGS:4 may be the Pandora's Box of games…save yourself! Alas, I could not…

-EDGE-

Play it
Play it
Play it

Punishingwombat

It depends. MGS4 is a much shorter game, and spoilers are ahoy at this stage, so I say go with MGS4, and then GTAIV. Both great games in their own right, though, I do prefer MGS4.

Zero_

I was in the same situation. I decided to get MGS4 on day one, play through the whole thing (it took me about a week)and now I'm coming back to GTA4.

One big reason to do that is that it is just a matter of time before people start blurting out spoilers about the story without noticing, assuming that everyone already knows what happens. I remember that with the movie The 6th Sense some jackass told me the ending before I got to see it and that ruined the experience for me. Because of this, for something like MGS4 I decided to play the game before I had the chance to read anything related to it (or most of it), even reviews, so that I could experience the whole thing on my own.

Also, taking a little break before replaying MGS4 might keep things a little fresher than if you start playing the game over right away (doesn't necessarily apply to everyone, I started a new playthrough as soon as I finished the game).

Masterpain22

I'd say if you care about finishing GTA IV don't start MGS4.

I say this because at least for me, by the time I was on the last 15 missions of GTA IV it started to get pretty repetitive and I was more concentrated on just finishing the game rather than enjoying those last missions to the fullest.

MGS4, on the other hand, will have you hooked all the way through, and once you get hooked on MGS4, GTA IV doesn't look as good anymore and kinda seems like a shallow game in comparison.

fenderfuel08

Finish GTAIV just to say you've finished it.

But don't be surprised in the lackluster ending for GTAIV. Just like the feeling you got in the final 20% of the game of "wow rockstar really gave up" you see that in the ending. Sure the final 3 missions are good but leading up to them it just sucks and the ending sucks.

but GTAIV as a GTA is still damn good, finish it then wrap your world up with MGS4 i am still deep into MGS4 after beating it twice now.

Zaos

Hey guys, it's cool to hate GTA IV now! Go nuts!

In all seriousness, though. Finish GTA IV first, since it's difficult to get back into.

Of course, it depends on how much of a Metal Gear fan you are. I've never had a PS, so I'm not really one.

thefais

I love them both, a hell of a lot. But MGS4 is better. You should beat GTA IV first because you've already started it, then play MGS4.

Metal_Slug_Solid

I'd say finish GTAIV or you'll probably won't go back.

Even though I loved GTAIV, I'd much rather play MGS4 now.

technical_ta

@BtownDesignGuy: I'd say play the franchise first. They're great games and really are a precursor to modern gaming.. They're also chalked full of reasons to play MGS4. Sure, without understanding the storyline MGS4 is still something this side of heaven, but it's even better if you're a full fledge fan.

Voteforme2020

MGS4

GTA IV gets old. Fast.

mast3r_blast3r

If I could ask you guys, on a tangentially related subject:

If someone has never played MGS before, should they jump right into MGS4? Or would they benefit from playing a few of the earlier titles first?

Let's assume that one has access to the MGS Database on PSN, or story synopses on Wikipedia. What do you all think? Are the gameplay concepts developed in earlier games worth experiencing, so one could see the evolution of the gameplay experience itself?

Or is the gameplay experience of the earlier titles turned more into an antiquity than a golden oldie?

BtownDesignGuy

Finish GTAIV. It sucks to not finish a game. I started Doom 3 a week before Brawl came out and never finished it. D=

Doshi

Depends how involved you are with the characters and storyline, Bash. If you're like me, you just wanted to see what happened to everyone, so you'll keep playing until it's done.

PlayerX

LEAVE those boring games and send us some more of your GRID videos :D :D

KroKan

I gotta go GTAIV. It is a much more rounded game that MGS4.

rabidkeebler

gta 4 deserves that you finish it

JakeDunn

GTA4 kinda reminds me of what Burning Crusade is to WoW.

Some new features, some things are made more convenient, but in the end, it's the same grind.

OiScout

I haven't played GTA4 in weeks. There's just nothing to do - the story is going nowhere, if there even is a story anymore, and there are nowhere near as many side missions as in the old games. I'm still playing MGO though and once trophies are added I'll play through the single player again to unlock those and the other extras, and try to make sense of some of the more confusing parts of the story.

lordofsword

@dreadnought666: No, just crappy camera controls. I'm pretty convinced that you have to be a die-hard MGS fan to actually like the game; The ridiculous cutscenes, poor camera controls, inexplicable plot points and devices, etc. made me turn it off after a few hours.
Just my opinion, GTA4 is a far superior game in nearly all respects.

XeO3

I Like MGS4 a lot more than GTA4 but I think it will be better for you if you get the complete experience out of both seperately

eduardoj

Forget about GTA IV. Onto the MGS4. That's what I did.

broomperson

I'm the same way, have to finish one game before I start another but I don't really think GTA4 was THAT great, the ending was especially weak. Haven't bought MGS4 and don't plan on it as I haven't played MG since the NES days. Having never owned a SONY console I have God of War and Shadow of the Colossus to play, not to mention all the Wii games that got plyed for a few hours and then were set aside. The 2007 burden of too many good games continues into 08 for me.

SAKY

I'd say start MGS4.

KingBroly

I had this problem too. I decided to interrupt my GTA4 playing for finishing this great MGS4. That´s the best choice. And when you get back to GTA4, you´ll see a fresh and totally different game which you can enjoy again!

DO IT! NOW!

M.C.-Action

@XeO3: Another gamer complaining about MGS cutscenes. Dude, you might as well complain that fire burns stuff and gives off heat - but that's what it does and what you get it for, get it?

If you bought MGS4 then WTF why? If you didn't then WTF is the point?

If you want mass appeal buy Wii Sports.

DelSource

MGS4 > GTA4.

While I'm not going to deny GTA4 it's value, it's just not as well made or polished. But sometimes you just want to drive around and destroy crap.

OiScout

Finish GTA first its not that long if you start MGS4 you wont touch GTA4.....for a loooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong time

devilmaycry2020

@XeO3: The camera/controls in MGS4 are irritating? Does food irritate you as well?

dreadnought666

GTAIV seems rushed towards the end, the closing scenarios in particular were nothing spectacular. MGS4 on the other hand will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire play through.

Fallible

i HAVE TO GO WITH gta4.While MGS4 is great, it really only appeals to fans of previous MG games while GTA4 is 1. on more than 1 system and 2. has a variety of gameplay that appeals to a wider base of gamers.The games are also like comparing apples and oranges, so besides for the reasons givign above, it's isn't easy or fair to compare them to erach other.

Sugaray

If you have already started GTAIV... finish it before starting anything new.

Garo

I was in the same boat. I was on the last mission of GTA4, which is a bitch, and then got MGS4.

To answer your question, I still haven't beat GTA, and I'm happy with my decision. Liberty City will always be there, but Old Snake surely must be slowly dying of lung cancer as you dawdle.

Captain_Collide

Let GTAIV go, enjoy MGS4. Snake will smile upon thee.

kadosho

GTAIV is an abomination upon mankind it's so awful.

Play MGS4. It's not my cup of tea, but at least I can see why people are excited for it.

Mr. Fap☆Fap!

Play MGS4, now! GTAIV was such a let down, I couldn't even finish it even though I finished San Andreas and Vice City.

kumis

I ran into the same problem. I stopped playing GTAIV and played all the way through MGS4. I plan to go right back to GTAIV though.

mattstockton12

I wouldn't try getting 100% on GTA4 first.. Something about shooting pigeons doesn't suck you in like you'd think... I'd definitely try and beat the missions at least..

MGS4 has me hooked though! It beckons you to keep playing with some of the best graphics, plot, and game play I've seen yet in next gen gaming. Plus I haven't even touched the online yet.. 4 hours sleep last night, so be warned! This game will immerse you and place the battlefield in your living room.. *********

kind666

Finish GTAIV. You can always come back for the side missions and stuff later after MGS4. MGS4 aint going anywhere and you might actually want to spend your precious gaming time, I dunno, PLAYING a game and not watching one. Ohhhhh, see what I did there? ZING!

Gray665

I've never played MGS at all. But having bought a PS3 recently, and GTA IV, man...

If I were in your position, Bash, I'd be all like, "Grand Theft what-o?"

BtownDesignGuy

I would stay "Alpha," then focus on being "Solid."

DugDawg

To me it´s GTAIV.

But I´m kinda biased because I never really played any Metal Gear games and never got into the story. But I´ve seen people playing it and I know it´s an awesome game anyway. I guess it goes down to which game you prefer.

lucasreis

Just folow your instinct... (MGS4).
I know you want it!!!

TECNAUTA

I beat GTA4 before MGS4 since I'm the same way as you...can't start something new til I finished the old

Kj719

Why not play them both at the same time? You have two hands, two eyes, and two halves of a brain.

There's no excuse!

mitsoxfan

MGS4 without a doubt. i was more than a little disappointed with GTA4.

noliferuin (PSN)

My distaste for GTAIV knows no bounds, so I'm going to say go with MGS4 posthaste. And be sure to finish it on all difficulty levels and unlock every weapon/camo/emblem/etc. before going back to GTA.

mphz

As a non-bias commenter: MGS4.

Kanik

Go straight from GTA4 to MGS4 and see if the camera/controls and silly cutscenes irritate you.

XeO3

MGS4 is a much more focused and compelling single-player experience. Gameplay is easily the best of the series. The story's not perfect (better than MGS2, but not better than MGS3), and it really does wrap things up. Although, I'm not gonna lie, it could've been better in some areas.

But if you've at played through at least MGS 1-3, you'll get more out of it than GTA IV. If not, then there's probably less urgency.

I've played through every console GTA since 3, and I'm still working up the motivation to finish IV. Too many bullshit/same missions and the more entertaining multiplayer, has kinda pushed me away.

I finished MGS4 in a week (while sort of having a life and working fulltime). I'm still working up the interest to resume GTA IV's single player.

VicViper

Now... Like anyone else, I'd say go for MGS4 IF you have played trough any other MGS game (At least 1 and 2).. Else let it wait, until you have the time to complete 1 and 2.. Maybe 3... :)

Dragzonox

@Cactuar: Hmmmm...You stopped playing GTA IV before it was released? You really didn't like it.

dreadnought666

MGS4 is probably shorter... finish MGS4 first. Go back to GTA 4 later.

rich8606

I really wanted to play GTA4 and purchased it right away when it came out. But when I started to play it, it really disappoint me. Grachically and speed, lighting wasn't up to my standards. I know I'm pretty picky. But I really like MGS4. At first it was just ok, but once you get use to the controls and get into it, it's really good. I've finished it already. If it wasn't interesting, it would be like gta....I don't have time for that.

karateka

Play MGS4, and put up GTAIV until Saints Row 2 comes out so you can write an article talking about whether GTAIV or Saints Row 2 is a better spiritual successor to the fun aspect of the previous GTA titles. I know a lot of people, both in the real world and on Kotaku, who really felt GTAIV was lacking a lot of the more absurd things that previous installments offered in spades. I'd really like to see a journalist's take on whether Saint's Row has really taken over that niche, or whether it's truly just a shallow imitation of GTA.

wild homes and gardens

I'd say go for GTA4 first becuase it will have no chance in hell comparing to MGS4 if you play that one first. So give GTA4 a chance, then play the greatest game of our generation.

~km

karamashi

I would say that if you are a one game at a time person usually then finish GTAIV then move on the MGS4. It's more your preference, since I'm sure it's not a matter of if you'll play MGS4, just a matter of when.

Dullshimmer

Clearly Peggle destroys both MGS4 and GTA4 so you didn't even make it an option... I see what you did there. HATER!!

okenny :)

@NeoStarr:

lol, the GTA series is perhaps one of the easiest to jump back into.

Go for MGS4.

NeoAkira

Finish what you started. and then go for the better game, MGS4.

KM91

forget GTA and start MGS 4, totally worth it

thefragilenin

MGS4. Period.

Al87

MGS4 will have wanting more until you finish it.

Chris167

Personally I got bored GTAIV very quickly and thought it was a shallow, repetitive waste of money. But if you're enjoying it then I wouldn't give up on it, because you won't be able to put MGS4 down.

Doctor_Fruitbat

MGS4. 3 days.

Xavior

I've got the same issue, but I'm waiting to finish GTA4

...the best things come to those who wait ;)

Shin-Kaiser

If you start MGS4...you will have a hard time going back.

As much as I enjoy MGS4, you should seriously considering going as far into GTAIV as possible until the clarion call of MGS4 becomes too much.

Marikir

MGS4 so you can wake up in the middle of night screaming, "Snake? Snaaake? Snaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaake!"

raptorsrevenge

MGS4>GTA IV no doubt. But finish this game then start on Solid Snake.

Voteforme2020

MGS4. Without question.

iamcool388

Yeah, GTA IV is hard to just jump right back into. Finish it.

NeoStarr

MGS4, if GTA takes too long. MGS4's much shorter, and it'll be an enjoyable story. GTA's story is pausable, so you can go back to it later.

Ashurahori

Beat GTAIV. That way you'll actually finish it...and never have that sinking feeling for weeks at a time that you didn't do something.

Jamez

yah, I also recommend you play MGS4, I'm on my third run through it and still enjoying it. Haven't played GTA4 in about 2 months or so. Just got tired of it. Got halfway or something, then I just..stopped.

Cactuar

Ooh, tough call! But if you're an MGS fan, there is no question. You are *honor bound* to commence MGS4 immediately.

Don't worry. It's the right decision.

Aristeia

If your enjoying GTAIV, keep on going. Just bear in mind the ending kinda sucks.

will

Finish what you've started...

Vetterli

Forget GTAIV for now and start MGS4. Its worth it.

WhiteFeather

Play MGS. Old Snake isn't getting any younger while you wait.

Humpski

@XeO3: I'm pretty convinced that you must be a fanboy to suggest that MGS4 is a terrible game in all regards. I didn't play MGS2 OR MG3, and I think alot of people on this board didn't play all of them either. To suggest the camera/controls are bad in the game is just not true. Cut scene length and the plot are a matter of opinion.

dreadnought666

I can't say that I thought that GTA IV was a masterpiece, but MGS4 was probably the weakest game of the series.

Go play some more Metal Gear Acid.

hibikir

Metal Gear Solid 4 all the way. You'll rip through it pretty fast anyways.

weasl

Have fun. A great game is always great.
I'm playing GTA4 and MGS2, and MGS:PO+ myself...

fuchikoma

@Xtreme_Hindu_Cow: the other didn't care if you liked it or not.

I assume you're referring to MGS4 for this, in which case, one could make a very valid argument, particularly if one is in the "games can be art" camp. (Note that Kojima is not, and I tend to agree with him.)

Art is, by its very nature, is self-indulgent, and is not targeted at satisfying any third party. So if MGS4 "doesn't care if you liked it or not," then that would be the precise opposite of an artistic failure.

Deuce

Depends on what you think of MGS games. MGS4 is still an MGS game, so if you hate those, don't bother. If you were ambivalent because of the controls of the previous games, then give it a shot, because the controls are immeasurably better.

Because GTA4's ending is really not worth it.

obonicus

Argh, tough decision. MGS4 is just so, so good, but you have to finish GTAIV. Whatever, GTA can wait, you must play MGS4 now!

Volgin

Send me the MGS4 while you're finishing off GTA4. Then we trade when you are done! Deal?

ARPRINCE

This is absurd. Both of these games were made with completely different goals and intentions. Although that I will add that artistic flaw in both games was simply this: One tried too hard to be liked and the other didn't care if you liked it or not.

Xtreme_Hindu_Cow

Finish what you start.

marklip

MGS4 first. I made a point of finishing up GTA4 before NG2 came out. Of course, then my 360 died on me midgame, which will make repair/replacement #2, but I digress. MGS4 has a much richer plot than GTA4, for reasons both obvious and subtle, and one which is far more liable to be ruined by the inadvertant glance at a spoiler. GTA4 is fun (even if it isn't set in Vice City...), but MGS4 is more of an experience than any GTA game could ever hope to muster.

Deuce

dude..don't even ask the question...
load yourself up with some quality MSG (a la instant noodles), then play some MGS4.

i don't think there are many games out there that MAKE you want to play multiple times, right after you beat it...and MGS4 is it.

uberLAB

FINISH GTAIV FIRST Bash! Get the anti-climax out of the way. ;)

kpugs

Beat GTA first. You seem like me, and I would regret ditching GTA all during MGS, and wouldn't enjoy it as much as I could.

syrantking

I would say to most people, finish a game start another, but for a member of the industry, that's a tricky proposition, especially with a game like MGS4 in the market. You have to stay up more than an amature blogger like myself.

You should also give proper attention to GTA's multiplayer. Since I appriciate player driven drama and action instead of a twisty-turny, contrived plot, I'm loving GTA's multi.

Edge of Blade

Compared to MGS4, GTA4 is simply medicore and pedestrian. Place it in the garbage pail where it belongs and start playing the best game of this generation.

Rinshu

You should play what you feel like playing. However, since you were kind enough to ask Bash, I'll tell you this.

Complete GTA4 first. Trust me on this one. Once you start playing MGS4, it will suck you in like Monica Lewinsky during White house visiting hours. I completed about 15 percent of GTA4 and once I started the greatness (i know what I just said. It's just that great) of MGS4, it's hard to go back. Plus, with the inclusion of the rumored trophy system for firmware 2.4, you'll probably go back. Matter of fact, you'll probably go back because the game begs multiple play-throughs.

Jun581 likes street fighter 2 but he hates zangeif

no offense to MGS4 but if you start on MGS4 you should have it done in a weekened. so set aside a few days for MGS4 and then you should be back in GTA in no time.

Dakobah

MGS4>GTA IV

B1ooDshOt

i dropped gtaiv like a hot potato once i got my hands on mgs4.

weirdly, i was way more excited for gtaiv but still haven't beat it. i'm sure i will once i finish mgs4, i guess i'm just still a little kid when it comes to new stuff!

PGGB

Well seeing as you obviously aren't enjoying GTA4 enough, you should probably go with MGS4.

TheHun

All that GTAIV hype for nothing. Sorta felt like GTAIV beta to me, but I still had some moderate fun. I really think they would have faired better if they just committed to one platform and utilized the strengths of it to create their game. They aren't a studio that can do simultaneous multi-platform releases and have AAA code...so far that title belongs to Infinity Ward (bless that game engine).

BUT MGS4!!! You better get your gamer balls back and play this game ASAP until your fingers bleed. I played it, beat it in two long sittings, and started another run through immediately after seeing the credits. Not only is this game truly bringing next gen gameplay/graphics, but the story and cinematic presentation is the proper evolution of next gen media (game/movie/teh awesomeness)

iNime

I myself am a "Play-one-game-then-the-other" guy, but I made an exception this time and Played MGS4 before finishing GTA IV.

Due to the non-linearity of GTA it allows for you to take you pace and playing it in a relaxed mood always adds to the joy. If you were to play the ending now. all you will be doing is "I've got to play MGS4 after this! better finish this soon! I have many other things to do too!"

So... play MGS4 and then GTA IV, which you can hop in and play at any moment (which is good as you might be getting off your seat because of the bajillions of work you have to do)

Reetesh

Hmm, I've completed both and mgs4 will take you about 15-20 hours and gta 4 about 30-40 hours, so if you're anywhere near finishing the main story of gta 4 (about 75% complete normally) then id finish that off first. Depends whether your getting tired of gta 4, if not then just save mgs4 for a rainy day as there are no triple A titles coming out for a couple of months now. Personally I feel that gta 4 is the more coherent and consistent experience, where as parts of mgs astounded me and parts left me so flat (the 3rd act has all of 25 minutes of gameplay in a 2:30 hours, the 4th act gets heavy handed force feeding nostalgia rather than just letting the user feel it naturally and the ending should have ended about 20 minutes before it did).

ali_g_84uk

MGS4 is a short game (for what I expected it to be) unfortunately, but a good ride. If you have a long way to go in GTA go ahead and knock MGS4 out in a few days.

It won't interrupt your GTA playing long enough to forget what you were doing.

Shandy706

GTAIV or MGS4?

Burnout Paradise.

jettokisora

i picked up both GTA4 and MGS4 at the same time and i played through MGS first. After, finishing it and starting GTA4, i just couldn't enjoy the game and i had to force the fun.

So i recommend finishing GTA4 first in order to get the most enjoyment. Cuz mgs4 is that awesome

ScYze

finish gta 4; finishing the story after mgs4 will be like finishing a book after you read another book in between

genbeef

GTA IV is nothing compared to the might of MGS4.
The beauty of MGS is, even with all the cutscenes, there is actually some fun and exciting gameplay in there...

I was a HUGE fan of the GTA series, but IV feels weak to me. It won't run away if you leave it for a bit. If you want some proper FUN though, go for MGS.

Ungruntled

@BtownDesignGuy: great question dude. you will do your self a great service in playing MGS1-3. i bought the eesential collection in may to replay the experience once mroe before mgs4. best thing i could have done. youre looking at

- a complete fleshed out experience in game (no diss to MGS Database that thing is awesome to the 2nd power)
-see the evolution of Gameplay
- obviously graphical evolution

so yes pls play all 3, and then immerse yourself into the journey that is MGS4. {^_^}

zanzibarlegend

Not owning or even played either Id say go with MSG4.

Metropolis

I'd say my answer is two fold.
First, the answer for the masses. Generally when someone decides to go off and play a new game it's because they do not want the ending spoiled. This can occur with movies but with games you invest time and effort and do not want the experience sullied. In this circumstance, GTA4 VS MGS4, I'd actually say go ahead and beat GTA. Why? Did I just contradict myself? No. The reason is clear if you've ever played a Kojima title. The only way this, or any other Kojima title, can ever be ruined is by an exceptionally lengthy conversation about the game, by which time you'd figure out an ending was coming and could put the kaibosh on it. So beat GTA4...if you're the majority.
But if you're someone who needs this material to accurately portray how you feel about it and to get the first run experience on it, then you might want to get it started. There are many things in MGS4 which should be experienced sooner than later by someone who reports on this topic simply to see how future title might emulate it. There are several ideas in the game which, albeit not very original, are done in a way which makes them actually enjoyable. So in this particular circumstance go ahead and play MGS4.I can honestly say it's a quicker game...but Kojima makes certain that multiple play throughs are neccessary if you want to make any sense out of the convoluted story. I find I'm generally "too smart" for Kojima's work. Why would someone have the audacity to say such a thing? Well I get a little peeved when he has to "explain" things when I already got them or cement in an idea with some overly goofy visual or concept. But hey, I wouldn't want to go out and say Kojima is a nut job.
I had to stray off topic...as I found this is the moral of MGS4 at times.
(DOH)
-Adam

ApocalypseVII

Well, I had done the same thing...sort of. I stopped playing GTA4 a few weeks ago because I just simply lost a desire to play it. The game just isn't fulfilling to me at all. I started to realize that I was only playing it to finish what I started and wasn't really enjoying it, which is exactly what happened w/San Andreas.

Now on to MGS4 - I know it sounds ridiculous to say such a thing but...It is by far the best game I've ever played. No "ifs" "ands" or "buts" about it. It is simply that fucking good. From beginning to heart-wrenching end, it is an experience not ever achieved before in video games. As I play it I am constantly over-whelmed with a feeling of sheer amazement at what is going on and not only am I watching it but actually controlling it (especially Act3). MGS4 is purely a perfect game. I genuinely have no complaints about it. The story alone will grab your heart and squeeze from the moment you start the game and see the title screen.

So...after all that, YES you should stop playing GTAIV and put Snake's final mission in your PS3. You will not regret it. If I was in your position (living in Japan), I would try my hardest to be able to shake the hands of ever person working at Kojima productions.

prodld50

MGS4.... Nuf said..... After playing MGS you will wonder why the fuck you even played GTA

Xuchilbara

Alot of folks here that are recommending MGS4 are forgetting that MGS4 is a game that really apeals to fans of the series and if you're not a fan of slow paced/strategic QUASI SHOOTER/STRATEGY/RPG games, then chances are you don't care about the Metal Gear series all that much.No denying that it's an excellent game for it's genre, but it's far from the best game ever and even whether it's the best in the series is up for debate.

Sugaray

FINISH HIM IT

William "Killer" Shatner

GOTY - MGS4 of course

JimmyHACK

So what I've learned from this thread is BASICALLY...

Just do whichever one you want to do! Everyone's got a different opinion on it :)

Spoony Bard

I haven't beat GTA4 yet either. I drop it and started MGS4 and beat that first, IT was worth it true next-gen experience.

Ryosukekun

GTA IV

MGS4 is amazing, but I prefer the choice I am given in the more realistic situation that is a sandbox game. Seeing as GTA IV offers the most realistic world to explore, it gives me more enjoyment.

HaydenTenno

FORGO SLEEP AND FINISH BOTH!!!!

Nihon no Purin

wont most say GTA4? considering both console owner's have it? (more fanbase)

I have both and MGS4 to me has a better storyline, hands down

so finish MGS4 first

White-Sharingan

Finish GTA. I didn't finish GTA and "popped in" MGS4 to check it out. I'm still hooked on MGS and wish I finished GTA.

Sickofitall

I think you could play both simultaneously. While you wait for one of the lengthy cutscenes to finish in MGS4 you could be completing missions in GTA4. Either way it's a win/win. Both games are amazing in completly different ways. As for me I have to stop playing COD4 and get ready for BF2. HAVE FUN!

illdaddyj

@Frank: and MGO isn't completely free?

Playstation

GTA IV, probably because its online mode is completely free, you can customize your character whenever you like - not exactly one character per system - and you don't have to log in twice (not counting "Save My Password" bits.) Seriously, just register at the Rockstar Social Club and sync your PSN account there and you're good to go.

Frank

finish gtaiv. that way you can take your time with mgs4. i hate rushing through video games.

ninjarice

Finish GTA IV first. Otherwise you never will.

Quivx

The world should stop for MGS4.

JN64Lover

MGS4 changed my life last night. I only play MGS when I can focus without interruption and hence it has taken me awhile. Unlike GTA4 -I saw the future of games through MGS4. THose who have played it and seen the light know what act I started last night.

Punkateer

PLAY MGS4!!!!!!!!

SilkRevolver

@dreadnought666: I'd be careful with him, he's a new breed of troll. I've been keeping a close eye on the trolls (except for okenny) around Kotaku while I lurk in the shadows and I've noticed a change in their behavioural patterns.

I'm not sure if it's all the food the commenters have been feeding them over the years (I'm guilty too, I give out Bananas every Friday), but they have begun to evolve into beings capable of articulated thoughts. I couldn't believe my own eyes when I stumbled upon this discovery in my research, I mean... a troll with a functional brain? Who would have thought?

XeO3 currently leads one of the larger tribes, they respect him for his ability to go unnoticed while blatantly hating on a game (in this case, MGS4). You will see him in many parts of the vast world we call Kotaku, most likely rounding up copies of MGS4 for his children to feast upon. In short: Watch. Your. Back.

Finish GTA IV first. Now to find another way to procrastinate.

Libo

gah ofcourse start playing mgs4

runandgun

What the hell? No offense but its not like you don't own both. I mean they're both served to you on a hot plate and you can play what you feel like playing. Just think to yourself what you want to play, what you feel like playing. and play it. Some others don't even own one or the other and are still making do. >:(

Jagzthebest

Forget about Grand Theft Ass, if you have MGS4 in your possession you have absolutly no reason, no excuse to not be playing it aside from "had to send my PS3 back to Sony."

Bricked

I doesn't really matter.

Just alternate between the two.

Willy105

MGS4. You can finish it in a few long sessions or over a week. It's great.

GTAIV you can always come back to. It's not going anywhere.

Ishmae1

Finish up GTA4 if you're close, then move on to MGS4. MGS4 won't take that long to beat (my first playthrough was like 15 hours, including time to explore, mess around and watch all the cutscenes (which count towards total time) so you can have it done in a weekend for sure.

ビッグ ボス

Throwing in my vote, finish GTA4 first. I got Bioshock and GTA4 at the same time and urged myself to finish the main storyline of GTA before popping in Bioshock.
In the end it's always better to finish one before starting the other.

Poison

Let me share you my experience. I beat MGS4 a few days ago then switched back to GTA4.. and I was wondering why was I doing.. sneaking behind people and.. where the heck was my CQC?? I want my night vision back!!

It was frustrating enough that I didn't continue.

Playstation

@lucasreis:

Outside of about 15 minutes at a friends place 9 years ago I've not played a MGS title. Until MGS4. This game is sooo much better than I'd have expected being unfamiliar with the material. Guess I get more of the "A HA!" moments that way.

I dunno but I was in the same boat as you before and I'm happy to be playing MGS4. *thanks wife for getting*

On topic:
MGS4 may not beat GTA on Metacritic but this forum seems to suggest something. I've played 42.X% of GTA and felt bogged down in repetition. I'll go back but MGS4 was there for me when I needed it. Sheer genius.

I think Kojima should get the Golden Globe for "Best Director" this year.

Glen-L-Ivet

@Rinshu: damn that was harsh...lol i mean GTA4 isnt the worst game ever made! it just doesnt hold a candle to MGS4 that's all! {^_^}.

zanzibarlegend

GTA didn't deserve the ratings it got imho so I'd go with Metal Gear but then again I don't know your taste in games. I'm personally selling GTA.

Spigget

Go to MGS4, life it too short and it's the better game.

proust

I had the same dilemma, and I went ahead and finished GTA before starting Metal Gear. I'm on Act 5 of Metal Gear Solid 4, and I feel like it has taken me much less time to complete than GTA, although that might be because I have been so absorbed in it.

Squamden

MGS4. There will always be more GTA games, with some washed up criminal as a main character; however, there won't be anymore Metal Gear Solid games with Solid Snake in them.

You can easily beat the game in 2 days; and, it will be worth it. You will be rewarded with one of the most genuine AAA stories on the market, as well as a sense of closure on the series.

You can pretty much guess the ending of GTA IV, right? I dare you to try that with MGS4, and be right.

severeon

@Sugaray: Thank you. I think its hard for some people on here to grasp that someone might not be a fan of the MGS series or the genre in general.

Gray665

MGS4 right now.

Barbara

MGS4 = crap, honestly its bloated garbage(yes I own it and am too bored to finish chapter 3.) Finish GTAIV which atleast will provide some entertainment.

RuneX21

Finish GTA IV first.. you will like actually like MGS4 after you are done with GTA IV

imique

I suggest you finish GTA IV first. At least for me, MGS4 required my undivided attention.

flashtut

If you've played other Metal Gears, MGS4 isn't really that new or great or anything. Might as well play through it though and see for yourself. GTAIV can keep you busy for months

GhaleonUnlimited

You owe it to Niko to finish his journey. The ending doesn't suck. What happens after the final interactive moment where you play and take down someone is kind of a let down, but otherwise it's amazing, what makes Niko go down the path that he goes down and the final mission has a little bit of everything in it, it's real fun. It's worth finishing before MGS4, and then you won't have to worry about going back to GTA IV, you'll have only MGS4 to concentrate on.

nobodysleeps

Play MGS4 for sure. I just don't understand a lot of the reviews. On www.metacritic.com, GTA4 is 98/100 whereas MGS4 is 95/100. In my opinion, if GTA4 is 98 then MGS4 would therefore be at least 99 or 100.

will52

Simple, anyway you want it. That's the way you need it.
Play how you want, you can even alternate between playing the games.

Angryrider

Definitely MGS4

I bought GTA at launch, and I'm usually the first to beat a GTA game 100%, but I still have yet to even finish the story on IV. I don't know, the game just kind of lost my interest.

It really fells like a chore to play the story because it's so cookie cutter do the same damn thing you've done for the past 10 years. I mean, I have fun just fartin around but the missions just aren't fun anymore.

I couldn't put Metal Gear Solid down, however. The story just had me enthralled the entire time.

His_Shadow7

Finish what you've started, then move on. I refuse to start shadow of the colossus until I beat MGS3, Ico, and Okami.

Talleh

@DOC409: sounds like you need a ps3 mate. cuz even if you had ur 360 back from repairs, it would be hard to debate on a game you don't have or might not play.

zanzibarlegend

metal gear is the best 4th entry in any series ever.

and from what i've been hearing "around the netz" the ending to gta 4 is pretty "bleh". I'd say you're better off starting MGS 4 now.

demonknightinuyasha

GTA4. Ok, seen that, done that....this again? again? looks nice..basically some evolution. Same shit polish in next gen. 10/10 & Oscar worthy story. Good game to get same shit. Game doesn't sell consoles.

MGS4 = SPASMIC ORGASM with 8/10 & convulted numb sucking mental disorder state of mind story that doesn't let you play 50% of the time. Game that sell consoles.

ahmeng

Forget about GTA4, by the end it was already too repetitive for me. Just play the greatest game ever made, MGS4.

mnml10387

MGS4

y2kenjination

I wish I had this choice to make! Unfortunately, my Xbox has been broken/lost since April 29th, despite the fact that I set up my repair with Microsoft that day.

Over three weeks (and three separate boxes) they failed to provide me a viable shipping method. When I finally did manage to ship it after printing out a UPS label myself, they just lost the fucking thing. They still haven't been able to say for sure when I'll get it back.

Today is the nine-week anniversary of that fateful Tuesday, when GTAIV was unleashed on the general public and my Xbox apparently fucking died of sheer joy five hours into it.

Nine weeks later, I'm still waiting to get an Xbox from Microsoft, despite calling almost daily. I paid $99 for this service, too. It's bullshit, is what it is.

DOC409

Well, I feel that by nature, GTA4 has a lot more to do than MGS4 and that it will take less time for you to get through MGS4 than GTA4. So go on with MGS4, see if you miss GTA4. Sometimes the only way to tell how much you love a game is to try and go without for a little bit. If you crave GTA4 while playing MGS4, go back to it knowing your true feelings.

Ryodestined

MGS4 is better in my opinion. I played a good chunk of the way through GTA4 and yet my no-alert, no-kill MGS4 run (I've never done one before--it's really hard given the battlefield environment, sometimes...) is much more interesting. The story is so much more touching than that of GTA4. I mean, it's interesting and comedic in GTA4, but Solid Snake's final adventure is just too epic to wait, in my opinion. Plus, how often do you get to see a monkey in a diaper with a nicotine addiction...?

TuxBobble

I don't really understand all of the GTAIV hate!? The only reason I am kind of bitter is because it stole my precious life from me for a sad amount of time. Playing MGS4 right now and it is good but I am not quite blown away by it like everyone else yet. I think that will come.

Finish what you started. Move onto MGS4 after that, otherwise you might not go back to GTA ... there will always be something to get in the way.

cmcginn

MGS4 FTW! Totally worth it imo.

Khalil

There is no wrong answer...

Shiroi Kaze

Give MGS4 ALL your attention, so finish GTA4, then play MGS4.

artofwar420

MGS4 is amazing. I've only played through MGS3 before I picked up 4 and it still explains the whole series even if you haven't played 1 or 2. Not to mention that the gameplay is vastly improved over the earlier installments. I would strongly recommend MGS4 over GTA4. Actually I'm going to go play through it again right now.

thePhilosopher

Even though I don't have a PS3, I never was interested in getting GTA IV because I was never into the GTA series, I would much rather happily play MGS4.

Shaverdian

I think you should jump in if you're an MGS fan. Though there is the backlash of maybe not enjoying GTA's story after playing MGS'. I never finished a GTA game. Ever! I always run amok and kill everyone and then get bored and play something else. Repeat cycle...Though I admit I do enjoy playing it.

If given a choice, I'd choose MGS4 any day of the year! C'mon it's MGS...This game is tempting me to buy a PS3 just for it! Heck I'm even justifying it myself! =)

excaliburps

Finish GTA. It's not that long and it won't be such an extreme, immediate transition. Do realize that the last mission is a pain in the fucking ass. I think it took me three or four hours to beat it. I should have started recording all the lame ways I died.
@will: Which one? Ooooooh... Unless you mean both.

Erwin

I would suggest that you finish GTA first. Then you can enjoy Metal Gear without that nagging feeling in the back of your head.

shak_0

Bash, as a journalist, you have to finish GTA4 at some point, or else you will not be able to write an article later this year that references GTA4. What if the "game of the year" title comes down to choosing between GTA4 and MGS4? If you don't finish GTA4, you simply won't be able to make that call with a clear conscience.

But... it's really hard to go back to GTA4 from MGS4, so instead of torturing yourself later on, just be patient and finish GTA4 first. It only takes... what 30-ish hours, and then you won't have to go back to it ever again.

orakga

Go ahead and finish Grand Theft Auto IV, then start on Metal Gear Solid 4. Both are great games, no question, but for me, I like to get immersed in a single-player experience from beginning to end; breaking that up with another game always diminishes the end result, IMHO.

kylenalepa

I myself stopped GTA4 to alot myself some time to play through MGS 1, 2 and 3 before number 4 came out. I must say that I'm glad I did, and MGS4 was AMAZING. I'm just getting back into GTA 4 now, and it's going to be tough to get through now that I have experienced the awesomeness that is MGS4. Then I gotta do NG2 after that.

Polyh3dron

I'd finish GTA IV first so you won't feel like you're missing out on something when you start your second playthrough of MGS4 within hours after you finished the first one. I just started Act III on my third playthrough...got 2:30 on the clock I'm hopeful I will get Hound and/or Fox badges this time, then the fourth time will be about getting the badges for playing messy and taking the opportunity to use all the cool weapons I've unlocked but cannot use because I'm on a "no-kill" playthrough.

With the GTA games once I beat the main story I lose interest rapidly.....but I have played the Metal Gear Solid games over and over again (except for MGS2 where I have only did that with the Tanker part).

Tibeerius

MGS4 all the way

youngn134

I traded GTAIV to get MGS4 for five squids. Best gaming deal of my life.

DelSource

Finish GTAIV. I love MGS4, but both games have a large narrative and keeping track of both of them might be an issue. Especially since MGS4 references twenty years of plot twists, turns, and seizures.

Legion329

Finish what you started...lol

enawazh

GTA4 is so freakin' long I lost interest right about the time MGS4 arrived. Do yourself a favor, beat MGS4 (you'll do it in like a week) and then if u want go back to the forever no ending GTA4.

Alex_Mexico

MGS4 FTW, as GTA IV is garbage compared to MGS4.

Grimmjow Jeagerjaques

Play Metal Gear Solid IV, then finish GTA IV. Join the Hype. It's a short game anyway....

kingme

I put GTA4 aside to tackle the beautiful MGS4 experience. I recommend you do the same Bashcraft!

sascha23

It depends on how far into GTAIV you are, but I'd generally suggest to finish what you started. That way you won't have anything distracting you from MGS4 when you're playing it. Also, here's a tip: select Big Boss Hard as your difficulty - it's not really that hard, it makes the game more fun, and completing the game will be more rewarding.

I finished GTAIV on June 11th and picked up MGS4 the following day, so I got lucky... just finished MGS4 last night, too. MGS4 was way more fun and interesting in terms of the missions and general gameplay, while GTAIV is more fun because of the freedom the player has.

Blah8

Definately, Start playing on MGS4 that is one of the Best Games Out there even better than GTA4.

My Humble Opinion, Just Play MGS4.

joemin97

I've been playing GTA since the first one, and while I couldn't get into San Andreas, I totally loved GTA IV.

MGS4 is my first MGS game, and even though I'm not finished yet (only just beat the 3rd boss) I think it's a significantly better game.

I'd go MGS4 first. At the end of GTA IV, I wanted more story and there was no more to be had. It was disappointing. I think you'd enjoy it more if you stretched that experience out. The MGS4 story just pulls you in though.

Doshu

MGS4, depending on how far you've on in GTAIV, it's a little anti-climatic towards the end.

Might as well play MGS4 when the internet is still abuzz with excitment about it. You'll end up getting more into the game this way.

eoaa

I couldn't bring myself to finish GTA4. I was too fed up with it by the end and had absolutely no motivation to keep playing. MGS4 is top-quality and definitely worth it. After I got MGS4 I sold back my 360 copy of GTA4 along with a bunch of other 360 stuff and got 3 ps3 games and it was by far the right thing to do. They say GTA4 is non-linear, but only in terms of who you take missions from and when you want to start them. Once you're on a mission itself, it practically punishes you for trying to do things your way instead of the way the game wants you to do them. MGS4 grants you an extraordinary amount of gameplay freedom. I've beaten it 3 times already and have gotten exponentially more replay value out of it than GTA4, considering I was bored with GTA4 by the time I unlocked Algonquin and tried to shoot all of my contacts because I was so sick of them calling me every 4 seconds to go fake bowling only to find out that they just call me AGAIN later for a ride home from the hospital. Seriously, just fucking DIE. Brucie can suck my balls.

Rant over.

MistaJeff

mgs4 is game of the year

33cbg2113

I still can't bring myself to play MGS4. :(

Polite Society

MGS4 without a doubt.

For me, GTA4 quickly drifted off into "meh.."

Scarleth