I played the latest GTA briefly while visiting my brother, who has a PS3 and a nice TV set. I was impressed enough with the graphics, but I agree that it wasn't anything better than what I'd seen before (certainly nothing compared to the jaw dropping Myst got it when it first appeared on the scene). From what I could see, the main appeal was the smooth gameplay and, like Andrew mentioned, the keen attention to detail. I can see why people would want to buy this game and spend time exploring the city and figuring out the rules of the game.

That said, I must admit that the aesthetics always turned me off at the get-go. I don't want to play a gangster thug, or whatever it is. I don't care for those people IRL (and have less respect for the people who try to look/act the part), so there's not much draw. I'd much rather imagine myself a Master Chief or Sir Graham or what have you. :) It seems to appeal more to kids who love gangsta rap and that whole scene.