Racing - Act 4 - Gran Turismo

The Gran Turismo series has long been hailed as a pinnacle of realism and authenticity in the racing game genre. One of the standout features of the Gran Turismo series is its unparalleled commitment to realism. The game's attention to detail in car modeling, physics, and track design is truly impressive and unlike any other racing game series. The realistic handling of vehicles, the accurate representation of real-world tracks, and the depth of customization options contribute to an immersive and authentic racing experience. Players of this game are usually hardcore gamers who love racing simulation so they can experience what it’s like to change gears with controlling the clutch, sliding around the corners and analyze how much physics play a part in real-time racing.

However, this dedication to realism comes at a cost. The Gran Turismo series has often been criticized for its slow progression and steep learning curve. While it caters the hardcore racing enthusiasts seeking a true simulation experience, it may alienate casual players who prefer a more accessible and immediate gameplay. The lengthy grind to earn credits and unlock new cars and challenging AI opponents can be frustrating and not allow players from fully enjoying the game. The series has also struggled with inconsistent presentation and a lackluster single-player experience with no open world cruising or free-roam option. The user interface in Gran Turismo games has often felt outdated and uncreative, making it difficult to navigate menus and access game features. The single-player campaigns, while offering a variety of races and challenges, have lacked storytelling. This results in a sense of detachment and a missed opportunity to create a more engaging and memorable experience. Lastly, like the Forza series, Gran Turismo is an exclusive game for PlayStation only, resulting in a very small community that plays the game competitively.

Despite these shortcomings, the Gran Turismo series remains an impressive technical achievement. The level of detail and authenticity it brings to the racing genre is commendable. It continues to attract a dedicated fan base of PlayStation players who appreciates the depth of the simulation and the experience of interacting with cars fully.

Gran Turismo series review rating (7.25/10)