Wondering what sort of innovations (aside from the stunning visuals) Take-Two Interactive has lined up for us when they finally release Grand Theft Auto 4 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360?

The developers recently set up a press event to demo the game's 360 port, which should also clue in the PS3 owners on what the game will be bringing to their console.

Shown were major improvements to the game's combat system. Also showcased at the demo was a new relationship system that puts as big a priority on your ability to rub shoulders with the locals, as your ability not to get caught by the fuzz.

Barring spoilers, we present you with the list:

• Police database: Stealing a police car gives you access to their station database, which marks your queries as waypoints on the map. More expensive cars also come with talking GPS.
• Free-aiming mode: GTA4 now allows you to shoot any where around your car, not just from the sides.
• B-button camera function: Allows the camera to stay focused on your target.
• Friendship rating: That cellphone's for more than just taking missions now. It can be used to call your local buddies to build up relationships - think a reverse of getting wanted stars.
• New ways to get caught: Forget to a pay a toll at the bridge, and you'll earn a wanted level.
• Enhanced drunk physics: Forget simple screen distortions or wonky controls. Getting Niko hammered will have him interacting appropriately with the surrounding environment (leaning on cars, running into people, etc.)
• Rocket Physics: Firing rockets into the ground at oblique angles will cause it to skip like a stone in water, not explode.
• Combat: You can now duck behind objects. You can also either blind-fire (RSV-style), or pop up and shoot for better accuracy
• Enhanced targeting: After getting a soft-lock, players can now aim for more specific parts on their target's body. You query will also react realistically depending on where you cap him/her.
• Hanging on: You can now hang on to moving vehicles, and board them via rapid button presses.
• Hanging on (2): Rockstar's demo also showed that drivers can attempt shake you off.