The Cousins Bellic

Overview

The Cousins Bellic is the first mission of Grand Theft Auto IV. Niko Bellic arrives in Liberty City aboard the cargo ship Platypus, says goodbye to his shipmate Hossan Ramzy and is picked up at the docks by his cousin Roman, who is visibly drunk. Roman's emails promised mansions and sports cars, but the drive ends at a run-down apartment in Hove Beach, and the opening sets the tone for the gap between the American dream and reality that runs through the whole game.

Walkthrough

1. Watch the opening cutscene on the Platypus and the arrival at the docks.
2. Get into Roman's taxi on the driver's side, since Roman is too drunk to drive.
3. Follow Roman's directions and the GPS route to his apartment on Mohawk Avenue in Hove Beach. The drive works as a tutorial for steering, braking and the handbrake.
4. Park in the marked spot outside the apartment and watch the closing cutscene, in which Roman admits that he exaggerated his success.

Tips

• There is no time limit, so drive carefully and learn how heavy Grand Theft Auto IV's cars feel compared with earlier games.
• Avoid hitting pedestrians or other cars in front of police, or you can earn an early wanted level.
• Listen to Roman's chatter during the drive; it sets up his gambling debts and the Albanian loan sharks.

Rewards and unlocks

• $25.
• The Broker Safehouse becomes available for saving and parking.
• It's Your Call is unlocked, and the Off the Boat achievement or trophy is awarded.