Ricky Gervais putting in Grand Theft Auto appearance

Early reports have indicated that Grand Theft Auto IV is attempting to bring a whole new level of realism to the GTA series, but things just got a little bit more serious(ly funny). Kotaku reports via ShortList that Ricky Gervais will be playing a part in the upcoming game, not just voicing a character but rather playing some embodiment of himself.

"Ricky Gervais . . . will even perform three-minute skits of never-before-heard material and classic Fame gags in the digital comedy club in which you find him," writes the article. Still unclear is whether the character will literally be "Ricky Gervais" or just a role like in The Office or Extras. In any case they made him wear a motion capture suit in order to render him just right.

"I got to wear a tight lycra suit as part of the digital process," Gervais is quoted. "Unfortunately they captured the whole horror, except I look slightly tougher." See, Rockstar is so committed to realism that it insists on motion capture even when it's completely unnecessary.

The article also notes that the comedy club isn't the only place Gervais will be found in the game, but that the other roles he'll play are still under wraps.

GTA IV will be released for the XBox 360 and Playstation 3 on April 29.

Related links:
This Side of the Truth Blog
GTA IV on Rock Star Games
News: Gervais to direct first feature

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