Grand Theft Auto IV, released in 2008, introduced us to one of the most complex and relatable protagonists in the series: Niko Bellic. Unlike previous GTA characters, Niko isn’t just after money or fame — he’s a war-hardened immigrant trying to escape his past and build a new life in Liberty City. This post takes you through the full story of GTA IV, focusing on Niko’s journey, choices, and fate.
Niko’s Arrival in Liberty City
Niko Bellic arrives in Liberty City aboard a cargo ship, lured by the letters and promises of his cousin Roman. Roman claimed to live the American Dream — with women, money, and luxury. But in reality, he’s drowning in debt and runs a small, failing taxi business in Broker.
Niko’s real reason for coming to Liberty City isn’t just to chase the dream. He’s looking for a man who betrayed his military unit during the Yugoslav Wars, leading to the death of most of his comrades. Niko wants closure… or revenge.
Caught in the Underworld
Soon after his arrival, Niko is pulled into Liberty City’s criminal underworld. He starts working for Roman, but also does jobs for small-time gangsters. His skills quickly attract the attention of bigger players:
- Vlad Glebov: A Russian thug who’s sleeping with Roman’s girlfriend. Niko kills him — the first big move that gets him noticed by powerful people.
- Faustin and Dimitri Rascalov: Russian mobsters. Niko ends up killing Faustin on Dimitri’s orders, only to be betrayed by Dimitri, who tries to have Niko killed.
From there, Niko’s journey becomes a desperate climb through Liberty City’s crime hierarchy — dealing with the Irish mob, the Albanian mafia, drug lords, corrupt cops, and government agents.
FIB, Revenge, and the Past
Eventually, Niko is forced to work with U.L. Paper, a shadowy government agency, and FIB agents like Michelle (his ex-girlfriend, revealed to be undercover). They promise to help him find the man he’s been hunting — Florian Cravic, now going by the name Bernie Crane.
Surprise: Bernie isn’t the traitor. He’s changed, and he genuinely regrets the war. That leaves Darko Brevic — the real betrayer — who Niko finally confronts in one of the game’s most emotional moments.
You choose:
- Kill Darko in rage.
- Spare him, seeing he’s already broken.
The Ending – Deal or Revenge?
The final part of the story revolves around a heroin deal. Niko’s associate Pegorino pressures him into either:
- Taking the deal with Dimitri, despite everything.
- Getting revenge and killing Dimitri instead.
This choice leads to two different endings:
Ending 1: Deal
- Dimitri betrays Niko again (of course).
- At Roman’s wedding, Dimitri’s hitman kills Roman.
- Niko kills Dimitri in retaliation.
Ending 2: Revenge
- Niko kills Dimitri before the deal.
- At Roman’s wedding, Kate McReary (Niko’s girlfriend) is shot by Pegorino’s men.
- Niko hunts down and kills Pegorino.
What Happens to Niko?
No matter the ending, Niko is left broken. Whether Roman or Kate dies, Niko loses someone he loves. His quest for peace and a better life ends in more death and regret.
In GTA 5, a character mentions that Niko “went off the grid.” The official canon ending is never confirmed, but it’s implied he survived and left the criminal life behind.
Why Niko’s Story Still Matters
Niko Bellic’s story is about survival, trauma, betrayal, and identity. He isn’t just a criminal — he’s a man shaped by war, searching for meaning in a city that only offers chaos. That depth is what makes GTA 4 stand out, even today.
Related post: GTA IV Remaster
What do you think — did Niko ever find peace? Let us know in the comments!