Microsoft have announced at the Leipzig Games Convention that, ‘In autumn there will be news from Liberty City; the first episodes of GTA IV will be available for download, exclusively on Xbox LIVE.’ However, no other details on Microsoft’s $50 million investment were revealed. All we know is that there will be one downloadable package this year, but no clues as to pricing or what it will contain.

The first details and screenshots of the PC version of GTA IV have emerged online today. Features revealed include a replay editor, better search options for matches online, the ability to play with a controller instead of keyboard and mouse (for all the masochists out there) and of course polished visuals worthy of the platform. Oh, and also fingerless gloves.

• The number of multiplayer slots may be expanded for the PC version (16 is the limit for the console versions).
• The maximum resolution is 2560x1600.
• Players can record 30 second clips and then they can add filters and adjust the camera angle using the replay editor. They can also paste clips together and then upload them to R* Social Club for others to view online.
• Players can search for multiplayer games more specifically (e.g. a deathmatch with pistols only).
• The Xbox 360 controller is compatible with the PC version.

Link: Eurogamer - First details emerge of GTA IV PC

According to videogaming247 the PC version of GTA IV is to be shown at Games Convention in Leipzig. Given the location and PC focus of the event it's hardly surprising, but this is the first time it's been confirmed by any source.

VG247 has learnt from a source close to Rockstar that the PC version of GTA IV will be shown behind closed doors at Games Convention next week.

No clue on specifically what’s to be shown, but expect the first pieces to pop up after the show.

GC’s looking quite hot this year, innit?

Link: videogaming247 - GTA IV PC to be shown to press at Games Convention

Rockstar Games today announced an October 30, 2008 release date for the localized Japanese version of Grand Theft Auto IV. A statement containing the announcement was posted on Take2's website earlier today:

New York, NY – August 15, 2008 – Rockstar Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today an October 30, 2008 release date for the localized Japanese version of Grand Theft Auto IV for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.

Developed by series creator Rockstar North, Grand Theft Auto IV was released in North America and Europe on April 29, 2008, selling 3.6 million units on the first day of release, and 6 million units in the first week. Critics from across the globe have showered the game in unanimous praise for its immersive storytelling; culturally eclectic soundtrack; an unparalleled level of detail in Liberty City; and sixteen player multiplayer with more than a dozen online modes for endless replayability.

Link: Take 2 Games Press Release

Rockstar Games have announced that GTA IV will be arriving on the PC on November 18th and 21st in North America and Europe, respectively. Hurrah!

New York, NY – August 6, 2008 – Rockstar Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), is proud to announce that Grand Theft Auto IV will be arriving on the PC on November 18th and 21st in North America and Europe, respectively.

"We are very excited to be releasing the PC version of Grand Theft Auto IV," said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games. "The whole team is dedicated to bringing an amazing gaming experience to the PC. The game looks and plays beautifully on PC and we can't wait for people to play it."

Developed by series creator Rockstar North and set in Liberty City, the latest installment in the enormously successful Grand Theft Auto series features a painstakingly detailed and life-like city for players to explore; a rich, immersive narrative experience; an original soundtrack highlighting the cultural eclecticism of Liberty City; and newly expanded multiplayer just for the PC.

Link: Take2 Press Release