In addition, I've heard that GTA Online is a grind to the point where it puts emphasis on buying in-game currency as the more convenient option.
The bigger issue was that GTA Online was pretty hollow content-wise. The missions just felt like filler (which is why everyone really wanted the heists).
But to be honest, if you're up for just random, insane fun, it's great. Players in the free roam can get bounties placed on them, which can lead to some great cat and mouse moments. Or you can just decide to troll someone, or you may get trolled yourself. The opportunities are endless.
Some of my favorite moments from the 360 version of GTA Online:
- Chasing down a dude with a bounty and his buddy. They got themselves to the top of a skyscraper, where they thought they'd be safe. I chopped up the bounty guy with the blades of my helicopter.
- Seeing another Gaffer in the GAF Clan getting worked over by a handful of dudes. Swooped in with my supercar, picked him up, then we turned the tables and started mowing down the dudes.
- Finding people who were robbing gas stations and convenience stores, then parking my car at the door so they couldn't get out.
- Getting trolled by a dude in a Little Bird helo. I was swerving all over the place trying to avoid him, parking under overpasses and stuff. I died several times, but had a blast the whole time
despite being the one who was trolled.
So yeah, you often have to create your own fun in the game, but it can be glorious. I bet it will be even more glorious this gen, given the increased player counts in an online free roam session. Gonna be cray cray, as the kids say.