If you don't mind, MBMM, I don't think it's a simple comparison. Even with the "IV" in the title, the design philosophies are relatively far removed from GTA3. (The "gritty, realistic" approach is definitely one of those choices.) So, I think that one aspect (Pulling back on the jetpacks and flight lessons.) isn't enough to say it's anywhere near GTA3. That's my opinion, though.
GTA IV does have a lot of reasons for being a numbered title 1) it takes place in Liberty City, like 1 and 3 did (2 was in "Anywhere USA") and 2) it's the first on a newer generation of hardware, so it was definitely a good time to go back to a numbered game instead of a spinoff like VC or SA.
Ohh, but I do mind... haha Core members of the III team helped lead IV's development. I always thought III had a semi-serious/gritty tone, especially compared to VC. Maybe I'm placing too much emphasis on the exclusion of character/car customization. To me it just felt like a return to form compared to the sprawling, RPG-esque San Andreas. But to bring it somewhat back to topic, Sonic Adventure. That damn camera... Also falling through the wall and ground. I still love it to death, though.
Can I just say every popular game with tank controls? RE, Tomb Raider, I can't think of any others off hand, but it's just not a good control method.
If you look at J-Rpg's, almost everyone of them requires a large amount of time grinding to level up. Some people enjoy that, but too me, that's quite a flaw.
I've always been a fan of JRPGs, but I agree with the grinding complaint to some degree. It has never bothered me too much, though, because it's nothing compared to most MMORPGs, where grinding is pretty much the whole point of the game. Also, it usually isn't overly time consuming to level up in most JRPGs if you just want to complete the main story. I'm sure there are exceptions, obviously.
