It is no longer a rumor. It was confirmed at CES by a spokesman for EA.

I think it has the makings of a great game. Apparently, you will take the role of Michael after Vito's murder. Much like GTA, this will be an action game based on the rise of a young gangster. If they perfect the formula like Rockstar did with GTA, I will have no qualms so long as it remains RELATIVELY similar to the game.

For those of you predicting the end of the world, relax. I am not a fan of EA, and don't have any confidence in the game, but I know it can never ruin the trilogy's mystique.

That said, I do hope EA surprises me.