In my opinion, GTA IV is a much better game than GTA V because it has a stronger story, better atmosphere, and more realistic physics. GTA V was disappointing compared to what came before. While it had a bigger map and more things to do, it felt less meaningful and, at times, boring compared to the darker and more serious tone of GTA IV. GTA IV’s dark and gritty atmosphere made Liberty City feel like a real place. The rainy streets, realistic characters, and serious story about Niko Bellic’s struggles gave the game a unique feeling that GTA V never matched. GTA V focused more on comedy and over-the-top action, which made it fun, but it lost the grounded feeling that made GTA IV special.  
The physics in GTA IV also made the world feel more realistic. Cars had more weight, crashes felt heavier, and character movement looked more natural. GTA V improved some gameplay mechanics, but it simplified many of the realistic details that made GTA IV stand out. Overall, GTA V is still a successful game, but GTA IV had a better atmosphere, a more emotional story, and a level of realism that made it feel more immersive. The dark and gritty style of GTA IV was a much better direction for the series!

Hot Take: GTA IV Is Better Than GTA V.