I think the general consensus not that the game is bad but that it is lacking in variety and doesn't have too much originality.

I think the game is awesome. The city feel very vibrant and has a great atmosphere. i don't need to play pool with my cousin or some other bullshit that some of you feel that you're missing. The story is enjoyable as well.

Its "open world" is mostly just window dressing. There's nothing to actually do within it. Also, there is apparently hours upon hours spent driving from one location to the next.
 
(Based on what I've read on NeoGAF, GameFAQs, here, etc. I haven't played the game yet)

Because Brad didn't.

TOO MUCH FUCKING DRIVING

" It's really "been there done that". "

" @PISTOLcm said:

" Because it's not a GTA IV clone "

I like that this guy thinks he made a valid point. No, it lifted scenes directly out of movies, a GTA clone wouldn't be so crass. "  

I think it's a fantastic game. I don't get the hate at all? Why is it a problem that there is an open world? I don't understand, I really don't. So there are no side quests... you'd rather have the city be represented in movies between the missions or something? For me, the driving through the city, escaping the police and just checking out the sights really enhances the experience. I can't help but think the people who don't like it simply wanted it to be another GTA 4. Personally, I thank the gods it's not. GTA 4 was some bland crap, I have to say, with the most horrible checkpoint system known to man. I still haven't managed to force myself to play the whole mess of it. 
 
Mafia 2 on the other hand, that is keeping me nailed to the seat and 10 hours is definitely not "short" for a modern shooter.