Not every game inspired by Grand Theft Auto has limited itself to copying Rockstar Games. Several action open-world titles have taken the formula in different directions, establishing themselves as acclaimed works in their own right.
Mafia is presented as one of the clearest examples of a game that significantly expanded on the formula, even indirectly. Released in 2002, the first installment is still regarded as one of the strongest and deepest third-person open-world action games. Its technical presentation was impressive both at the time and in the remake, but its greatest strength was a mature story that contrasted with the more light-hearted approach associated with Rockstar’s games.
Saints Row 2, released in 2008, took the GTA-inspired structure to an extreme. The game stood out for the freedom it gave players to decide how to approach the experience, as well as for its extensive character customization. The series developed by Volition is remembered for offering an especially unrestrained version of the open-world formula.
Sleeping Dogs offered another mature take on the genre. Set in Hong Kong, the game is particularly appealing to players interested in Asia and its culture. Its depiction of the former British colony was praised for its realism, while its combat system drew clear inspiration from beat ’em up games.
Together, Mafia, Saints Row 2 and Sleeping Dogs show how GTA-like games could move beyond imitation by emphasizing different strengths, including mature storytelling, player freedom, customization, setting and hand-to-hand combat.
Sources: Everyeye.it.