Can i play gta online without completing gta iv story mode?

Grand Theft Auto Online is the online multiplayer extension of Grand Theft Auto V, not Grand Theft Auto IV. While GTA IV was released in 2008 and GTA V in 2013, these are distinct games with separate storylines and gameplay mechanics. GTA Online does not require players to complete any story mode from previous titles in the series. Instead, it operates as a standalone online experience that can be accessed directly through GTA V. The game launched in 2013 for older consoles and later expanded to newer platforms, allowing players to participate in cooperative and competitive modes without any narrative prerequisites from earlier Grand Theft Auto games. Players simply need ownership of GTA V to access Online mode.