By Neil McGreevey BBC Northern Ireland

Gaming masterpiece makes it to the Xbox

Until recently, the fabulous GTA III and GTA: Vice City were only available to PS2 and PC owners in the UK.

But now the infamous steal 'em ups are up for grabs on Xbox as a double pack.

You earn cash by completing jobs for the Mafia, the Yakuza and other criminal organisations.

Behind the hard-boiled action and wicked sense of humour lies a gaming masterpiece that has finally made it to the most powerful console on the block.

Retro sounds

The radio stations are back.

Each time you nab a vehicle it'll be playing the ex-owner's favourite tunes from licensed bands, while the voice talent bursts forth from the throats of Michael Madsen, Kyle MacLachlan and Joe Pantoliano.

The Xbox version offers tarted-up visuals

On its own, GTA III is essential Xbox fodder.

But - like a pair of Siamese twins - you get a double dose of action in one package, with GTA: Vice City thrown into the mix for free.

Scarface meets Miami Vice in the 80s-set sequel that "stars" Ray Liotta, Burt Reynolds and Dennis Hopper amid totally new gameplay - including piloting helicopters, riding motorcycles and buying property.

The massive soundtrack is a retro-tastic collection of 1980s cheese.

Touted as two of the greatest games ever made and boasting sales figures that put most movies to shame, the Xbox incarnations of GTA III and Vice City even sport extra features, such as the ability to rip your own soundtrack and tarted-up visuals.

Beg, borrow or steal for it.

The Grand Theft Auto Double Pack is out now for the Xbox