You are tasked with providing sniper cover for Patrick "Packie" McReary during a drug deal. This introduces the McReary crime family, a major alliance for the rest of the game.

These missions involve significantly more gunfire than earlier ones. Use the environment to protect yourself from multiple shooters.

A direct confrontation where you must kill a group of gang members at a garage. This mission reinforces Niko's role as a hired gun for local factions. Phase 2: Transition to Elizabeta Torres

Before starting missions for Elizabeta , visit Underground Gun Shops to stock up on SMGs and body armor.

"Joining the gang" in GTA IV isn't about loyalty to one group; it's about Niko realizing that Liberty City is a "living nightmare" where everyone uses everyone else. This phase establishes that Niko’s military skills make him a valuable tool for various syndicates, including the McRearys and the Russian Mafiya.

Niko's work for Manny quickly leads him to , a powerful drug kingpin. This is the moment Niko truly enters the high-stakes underworld.

Niko's first real "gang" style hit. You must follow a gang member to a warehouse and eliminate everyone inside.