Maybe you've heard, but there's this game called "Grand Theft Auto IV" that just came out.

Really, you hadn't heard?

Well, I hope that excursion to Siberia was worth it.

Honestly, what more needs to be said than, "Hey, the new 'GTA' is out. We've got to play it!"

That's really all you need. But if you are in need of more convincing, I'll give it a shot.

First off, the story alone is worthy of cinematic genius.

You play as Niko, an illegal immigrant (sorry, Lou Dobbs) with a skill for killing and not much else.

Not that you need any further skills, because your touch with the steering wheel and the trigger of a gun are your best friends by far in "GTA4" (PS3, Xbox 360; Rockstar Games; M, for Mature).

The characters are compelling and well-defined.

Everyone has a purpose, and a life that seems completely honest and real.

Next you have the game play, and while not much has changed since the previous editions, it still feels fresh.

Niko can hijack cars, fire off a few RPGs and still have time to kick it with the ladies after a long day's work of being a citywide force to be reckoned with.

The controls handle decently, though driving is still a chore because of the traffic and somewhat poor handling of the vehicles.

Finally, there is Liberty City itself. It's massive.

And not just massive in that "Oooh, so cool to drive around" kind of way.

No, Liberty City is a thriving metropolis, with great visuals (given its scope) and lots of interactions.

It has bars, bowling alleys, eateries, clothing shops and tons more to keep you entertained even when not fulfilling mission requests.

When it comes down to it, there is just no reason for gamers to avoid playing "GTA4."

It ranks among the most impressive franchises in gaming history along with "Halo" and "Mario."

To miss out on it would be to do a disservice to your console, your TV and your life.

OK, maybe that's a bit much, but it's one heck of a game and you would be a fool not to play it.