The popularity of new release Grand Theft Auto IV has been demonstrated among broadband users, report internet service provider (ISP) Plusnet.

Figures released by the ISP have shown that one-third of its broadband users were gaming online in the hours following the launch of the game, which marks a first in online gaming history.

Products director at PlusNet Neil Armstrong said: "Our broadband usage figures have gone through the roof as customers battle it out on the streets of Liberty City."

It was also revealed that excited gamers stayed up through the night, with an increase in gaming traffic of 35 per cent between 04:00 BST and 07:00 BST on the morning the game became available.

Gaming continued through the next day, with PlusNet reporting 50 per cent more traffic than the previous day.

Broadband users can play the new game from Rockstar North on the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3.


Tuesday, 13th May 2008

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