Grand Theft Auto IV is set in a fictionalized version of New York City, known as Liberty City. The game follows the story of Niko Bellic, a former soldier from Eastern Europe who moves to Liberty City to pursue the "American Dream." However, upon arrival, Niko discovers that his cousin Roman's promises of a luxurious lifestyle were exaggerated. Roman is deeply in debt to various loan sharks, and Niko soon finds himself entangled in a world of crime.