Gran
Turismo
MSRP: $24.99
Number of Players: 1-2
Developer: Polyphony Digital, Inc.
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Reviewer: Angus Woodman
Once in a while, a game will come along and breathe new life into its
genre. This game is unlike any racing game you've ever played. Gran Turismo
has it all and more. The gameplay is so deep, it'll keep you playing for months - it's like the RPG of the racing world. Nothing can
touch Gran Turismo, it's just that good.
First, there is the arcade mode. This is pretty standard. There are a
few cars and a few tracks. Pick a car, pick a track -- then race. There
is also a two-player mode, which is pretty much the same old stuff. The
heart of this game lies within its simulation mode.
You start off with only a small amount of money, or credits. This will
only get you a small car -- not the greatest, but it'll get you around.
You then try to win races to get more money, which you'll use to buy new cars,
which you'll use to get more money. Being a simulation you must pass license tests before you
may race. There are three classes - B, A, and International A - which
all require an equivalent license. Once you have one, its off to the races!
The actual racing is like any other game, you and a bunch of CPU controlled cars
race around the track, all trying to be the first across the finish line.
The physics are near perfect. The car jumps around, shakes, and does just about everything a
real car would do if you push it that hard. While racing, you are
always close to the pack; there are none of those really slow drivers like
those found in most other racing games. Gran Turismo's racing style is not
arcade at all. It's more like you're racing actual cars and, until you master the
faster cars, you won't get the same sense of speed you might get with other racing games.
The selection of cars is amazing. Gran Turismo boasts over 160
cars. All are real, actual cars made by actual companies. There's everything from the fast
Viper and Camaro to the not-so-hot sedans. Each car you buy can be
modified and tailored to your liking. Add new tires, a new engine, and of
course, change the color. If you haven't got the money for a new car, you can
always buy a used one.
Gran Turismo's graphics are definitely tops on the PlayStation.
What is even more exceptional is the replay that's shown after each
race. The camera angles, the switches -- everything is done to perfection. It can make any race look like you
actually knew what you were doing. Beautiful.
The sound is also among the best on the PlayStation. Engine sounds from 166 cars were
recorded for this game. 'Nuff said. As for the music, Sony opted for
a more rock-oriented soundtrack, rather than the standard techno. Sony, being
the powerhouse they are, were able to get famous bands such as Garbage
for the soundtrack. This is one of the best sounding games for the
PlayStation, ever.
There is one thing that can always ruin a potentially good game and
that's control, or lack of it. This is not a problem in Gran Turismo. Every car responds just like
it would if you were actually driving it. You have many options for controlling the
cars. The game supports the dual analog joysticks, the NeGcon, and, of
course, you can always use the standard digital d-pad. Either way, the
cars are a joy to drive. Probably the best way to enjoy this game would
be with a steering wheel. It makes the experience just that much more
realistic. Get one with dual shock and you'll never put it down. The
vibration is brilliant. Every jolt, bump, and crash results in the perfect type and amount of vibration.
If you consider yourself a racing fan, go out and buy this game. You'll
be glad you did.
Graphics
9.0
Some of the nicest looking graphics on the
PlayStation, though some people may not like the graphics' style.
Sound & Music
9.5
Excellent music from actual rock bands, and
the awesome sound
effects make this a great sounding game.
Control
9.5
All the cars control just like
their real-life counterpart.
Replay Value
9.0
Both the single and multi-player modes will keep you
coming back for more.
Fun Factor
9.5
The gameplay is so deep, it'll keep you
playing for months - it's like the RPG of the racing world. Nothing can touch
Gran Turismo, it's just that good.
Overall
9.5
If you like racing, get this game. If you don't, you
still might enjoy this one.
Once in a while, a game will come along and breathe new life into its
genre. This game is unlike any racing game you've ever played. Gran Turismo
has it all and more. The gameplay is so deep, it'll keep you playing for months - it's like the RPG of the racing world. Nothing can
touch Gran Turismo, it's just that good.
The selection of cars is amazing. Gran Turismo boasts over 160
cars. All are real, actual cars made by actual companies. There's everything from the fast
Viper and Camaro to the not-so-hot sedans. Each car you buy can be
modified and tailored to your liking. Add new tires, a new engine, and of