To appreciate the impact of Gran Turismo, one can look back to its initial release on the original PlayStation (1997/98). Coincidentally, around that time, the internationally recognized Swedish band Cardigans released an album sharing the same name. One of its popular tracks, My favorite game, alluded to Gran Turismo on the PSX as the game of choice during their tour. This highlights the game’s significant influence on pop culture. Now, the series has reached its twelfth main installment, officially titled Gran Turismo 7, launching on Playstation 5 (with a simultaneous release on PS4). This release represents both a return to form and an adaptation to the modern gaming landscape, 25 years later.
The Gran Turismo series embodies a deep passion for automotive culture. Kazunori Yamauchi, the producer at Polyphony Digital (a Sony subsidiary), infuses his games with meticulously crafted car models, engaging trivia, and iconic racing circuits like Monza. Gran Turismo 7 effectively captures the essence of the original while acknowledging contemporary trends in popular racing games, notably Forza Horizon. It adopts elements such as the continuous accrual of player assets (CR, the in-game currency) and a more accessible, open-world approach with adjustable driving assistance. This caters to a wide spectrum of players, from novices benefiting from steering and braking assistance to seasoned racing professionals seeking a challenging experience. The series’ evolution from a pure car simulator towards a more broadly appealing racing game has proven beneficial.
From the opening sequence, featuring races set to a diverse soundtrack ranging from pop to classical, the game’s dedication to automotive enthusiasm is immediately apparent. The presentation on Playstation 5 is exceptional; the graphics are sharp and visually impressive, boasting realistic lighting and cloud formations characteristic of the GT series. Players can select between a 60fps mode or prioritize visual detail with ray tracing, and both options are worth exploring. The audio is equally impressive, from the authentic engine sounds to a diverse musical score seemingly inspired by Forza Horizon‘s radio stations. However, while Forza can sometimes feel like a collection of tracks, Gran Turismo 7 boasts a polished soundtrack that blends licensed music with high-quality original compositions. The refined handling, enhanced by the Dual Sense controller’s responsive triggers for acceleration and braking, and nuanced haptic feedback that conveys variations in road surfaces, further elevates the experience.
The game’s story mode is facilitated by Luca, the café owner, who provides objectives and “collector’s books.” Completing races earns stamps, unlocking new vehicles and brief presentations associated with them. This system is tastefully implemented, providing structure without becoming intrusive or overly complex. The in-game currency (CR) allows players to gradually build a car collection that rivals those of prominent automotive enthusiasts. Online competition is also available, alongside extensive vehicle customization options. While we lack the expertise of professional mechanics or racing drivers to definitively assess the real-world impact of these adjustments, the game offers a wealth of options for those seeking deep customization.
The Gran Turismo series’ trajectory has been uneven. The initial installments were groundbreaking (the first for its unique market position and the second for showcasing the PS2’s capabilities), but subsequent entries have sometimes felt unfocused or technically dated (“HD revolution,” anyone?). The sixth installment was a divisive release, praised for its extensive features, including classic races and even lunar exploration…
Therefore, Gran Turismo 7 represents a welcome return to form. While not flawless, it excels in many areas. Potential drawbacks include the presence of microtransactions for accelerated progression (via CR), which is generally unwelcome in a full-priced game and more suited to free-to-play models. Additionally, the car list, while substantial, might not be the most comprehensive. Players seeking realistic crash damage should also note its absence. Nevertheless, Gran Turismo 7 offers stunning visuals, exceptional audio, and engaging gameplay, even for those with moderate racing skills. While it might not be as overtly arcade-like or as generous with rewards as Forza Horizon 5, it remains a compelling alternative for Playstation users who may not have access to Xbox or PC platforms.
Playstation provided a review code for this assessment. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence; our reviews are conducted with a focus on our readers and consumers.
