I think you need to give some kind of goal to the player, no need to reference to GTA2 nor any game, just pick a long time goal to reach for player.
My suggestion is this: TK wakes up in a shady apartment and is immediately greeted by the landlord. He claims that he has treated his injuries and allowed TK to stay in his place for some time. He demands TK to pay up for his services. Not having any money to pay, TK is offered shady work by the landlord.
The first works would be tutorial for player to get used to the game. Despite that, player must complete them to pay TK's debt. After debt is paid, landlord informs player that he has more work to offer but also another person who could offer work like him. This is where player can choose what and where to go next.
That's from me for now.