A talented modder has managed to bring path tracing to Grand Theft Auto IV on PC, marking a major visual leap for the 2008 Rockstar classic. This addition introduces modern rendering technology to the aging engine, allowing the game to benefit from realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows that rival more recent releases.

Path tracing is a highly advanced global illumination technique that simulates the physical behavior of light, resulting in far more accurate color bounces, soft shadows, and reflections compared to traditional rasterization or even ray tracing methods. In GTA IV’s dense and moody Liberty City, this effect dramatically changes the atmosphere—wet roads gleam under streetlights, interiors appear more naturally lit, and time-of-day transitions feel smoother and more immersive.

According to the mod’s description, this is an experimental project and still a work in progress. The implementation may demand high-end hardware, as path tracing is known to be GPU-intensive. Players using modern RTX graphics cards will likely see the best results, though performance optimization remains a challenge given the age of GTA IV’s engine.

This mod builds upon years of fan-made enhancements, from HD texture packs to lighting and weather overhauls. It continues the community’s long-running effort to modernize the game’s visuals while preserving its gritty aesthetic. For many PC players, GTA IV remains one of Rockstar’s most atmospheric open-world experiences, and the addition of path tracing breathes new life into it once again.

Those interested in testing out or seeing the results can find details and footage of the mod here .