Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars is a technical marvel on mobile. Instead of trying to mimic the 3D console versions, Rockstar opted for a brilliant top-down perspective that feels like a love letter to the original GTA games, but with modern flair. The 'cel-shaded' aesthetic is sharp and helps the game run incredibly smooth even during chaotic police chases.
What really sets it apart is the touchscreen integration. Hot-wiring cars, assembling sniper rifles, and the infamous drug-dealing mini-game are all handled with tactile touch gestures that make the world feel interactive. The story is gritty, the writing is sharp, and Liberty City feels alive even in this smaller format. It is, without a doubt, one of the best 'full' gaming experiences available on a mobile device.
I’ll be honest, I was skeptical when Rockstar went back to the top-down view for Chinatown Wars. I thought it was a step backward. I was wrong. This is arguably the most 'game-y' GTA ever made. It strips away the self-serious cinematic fluff of GTA IV and focuses on making the act of being a criminal fun. The drug-dealing mechanic is a masterstroke of economy simulation—I spent more time playing the market with heroin and weed than I did on the main missions.
The touch controls for mini-games—unscrewing panels, filling molotovs at a gas station—actually add to the immersion rather than feeling like gimmicks. The writing is sharp, cynical, and doesn't overstay its welcome. It's not perfect—the driving can be a bit twitchy with virtual buttons, and the police AI is as brain-dead as ever—but this is a premier mobile experience. It’s a real game, not a mobile distraction. A rare high score from me.
Performance: Excellent port; wide-screen support and improved lighting over the original DS/PSP versions.
Buy if: You want a 'real' game on your phone with depth, story, and complex mechanics.
Skip if: You can't stand virtual joysticks or top-down perspectives.
Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod
Version 4.5.9Tue Nov 19 2024
General fixes and improvements.
Download and play up to thirty minutes as a free trial.* Purchase GTA: Chinatown Wars Full Game as a one-time, in-app purchase to play without any time limits.
Following his father's murder, Huang Lee has a simple mission: deliver an ancient sword to his Uncle Kenny to ensure his family retains control of the Triad gangs of Liberty City. Huang is a spoiled rich kid who expects everything to run smoothly, but his trip does not go exactly as planned. After being robbed and left to die, he will search for honor, riches and revenge in the most dangerous and morally bankrupt city in the world.
Software license terms in game and at www.rockstargames.com/eula; online account terms at www.rockstargames.com/socialclub.
Non-transferable access to special features such as exclusive, unlockable, downloadable or online content, services, or functions may require single-use serial code, additional fee and/or account registration (varies 13+). Access to special features require internet connection, may not be available to all users, and may, upon 30 days notice, be terminated, modified, or offered under different terms. Violation of EULA, Code of Conduct, or other policies may result in restriction or termination of access to game or online account. For customer & tech support visit www.rockstargames.com/support.
This videogame is fictional; doesn’t depict any actual event/person/entity; & any similarities are coincidental. Take-Two doesn’t endorse or encourage engaging in any conduct depicted in game. Unauthorized copying, reverse engineering, transmission, public performance, rental, pay for play, or circumvention of copy protection is strictly prohibited.
*Free trial limited to one per user. Any unused portion of a free trial period will be forfeited.
Requires iOS 13.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.Download and play up to thirty minutes as a free trial.* Purchase GTA: Chinatown Wars Full Game as a one-time, in-app purchase to play without any time limits.
Following his father's murder, Huang Lee has a simple mission: deliver an ancient sword to his Uncle Kenny to ensure his family retains control of the Triad gangs of Liberty City. Huang is a spoiled rich kid who expects everything to run smoothly, but his trip does not go exactly as planned. After being robbed and left to die, he will search for honor, riches and revenge in the most dangerous and morally bankrupt city in the world.
Software license terms in game and at www.rockstargames.com/eula; online account terms at www.rockstargames.com/socialclub.
Non-transferable access to special features such as exclusive, unlockable, downloadable or online content, services, or functions may require single-use serial code, additional fee and/or account registration (varies 13+). Access to special features require internet connection, may not be available to all users, and may, upon 30 days notice, be terminated, modified, or offered under different terms. Violation of EULA, Code of Conduct, or other policies may result in restriction or termination of access to game or online account. For customer & tech support visit www.rockstargames.com/support.
This videogame is fictional; doesn’t depict any actual event/person/entity; & any similarities are coincidental. Take-Two doesn’t endorse or encourage engaging in any conduct depicted in game. Unauthorized copying, reverse engineering, transmission, public performance, rental, pay for play, or circumvention of copy protection is strictly prohibited.
*Free trial limited to one per user. Any unused portion of a free trial period will be forfeited.










Left for dead in the worst place in America, Huang Lee must navigate the underworld of Liberty City to recover an ancient sword and avenge his father. Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars features a massive open world, deep mission variety, and unique touch-screen interactions. From high-speed chases to a deep economic simulation, it's a complete GTA experience designed specifically for mobile play.
Epic storyline with dozens of side missions
Stunning cel-shaded graphics and top-down perspective
Customizable touch controls and controller support
Vast open-world Liberty City to explore
Interactive mini-games designed for touch
When hot-wiring a car, you'll need to unscrew the panel and twist the wires using circular motions on the screen. Speed is key to avoid getting caught by patrolling officers!
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Yes, it is the full game with updated high-definition graphics and optimized touch controls.