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Gran Turismo (series)

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Gran Turismo is a world-famous series of sim racing video games.

Gran Turismo Screenshot
Gran Turismo Screenshot

Developed by Polyphony Digital, these games are designed for PlayStation systems. They are known as simulators because they aim to emulate the appearance and performance of real vehicles. Most cars in the series are licensed reproductions of actual automobiles. This means they are official, detailed versions of real-world cars. Since its debut in 1997, the franchise has sold over 100 million units worldwide. This makes it the highest-selling video game franchise under the PlayStation brand.

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Car on Games Convention 2008 (2783441756)
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Car on Games Convention 2008 (2783441756)

Driving in Gran Turismo requires a deep understanding of real-world physics. The game emulates complex dynamics like weight transfer and suspension response. Players must also manage understeer and oversteer characteristics to stay competitive. These physics are often felt through the rumble features in PlayStation controllers. Some players even use specialized racing wheels designed specifically for sim racing. While the simulation is difficult, various assists are available for less experienced drivers. This allows everyone to enjoy the experience of high-speed driving.

Gameplay typically follows a structured progression through a single-player campaign. Players usually begin with a small amount of in-game money, often 10,000 credits. They use these credits to purchase vehicles from manufacturer shops or used car dealers. As players win races and complete challenges, they earn more prize money. This money can be used to buy faster cars or upgrade existing ones. The game features a license-testing system to guide skill development. These tests ensure players are ready for more difficult racing events.

Sparco racing kit 2001
Sparco racing kit 2001

Vehicles in the series vary greatly in type and era. The roster includes everyday cars, exotic sports cars, and purpose-built racing machines. Players can also choose from classic models or modern vehicles. Most cars can be modified at parts stores to alter performance or appearance. The games feature many tracks, including fictional circuits and laser-scanned replicas of real venues. This level of detail helps create a highly immersive environment for the driver.

The series began with the vision of Kazunori Yamauchi. In 1992, while at Sony Computer Entertainment Japan, he started developing the original game. He began with a small team of only five people. This team eventually grew to seventeen members over five years of development. Sony initially rejected his pitch for a realistic simulator. However, Yamauchi continued working on it as a side project. After his other arcade games succeeded, Sony finally accepted his idea. The first title was released in Japan in 1997.

Kazunori Yamauchi at Gran Turismo 5 promo of Tokyo Game Show 20100916
Kazunori Yamauchi at Gran Turismo 5 promo of Tokyo Game Show 20100916

As technology improved, the complexity of the cars grew significantly. In the first two games, cars were made from only 300 polygons. By the time Gran Turismo 3 and 4 arrived, they used 4,000 polygons. In Gran Turismo 5, "premium cars" reached a massive 500,000 polygons. This increase in detail allowed for much more realistic graphics. The series has seen many different installments, including Gran Turismo 2, which featured 650 cars. Gran Turismo 6 later expanded the roster to 1,200 different vehicles.

Gran Turismo has a unique connection to professional motorsport. The series has provided technical support for the LMP1 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It also supported the Nürburgring 24-hour race. Through the GT Academy, players even had the chance to become real-life professional racers. Today, the series is recognized as an Olympic Esports sport with the backing of the FIA. Many car manufacturers, such as Mazda and Toyota Gazoo Racing, partner with the series. Some companies even design virtual concept cars specifically for the game.

2011 GT Academy Winner Jann Mardenborough joins competitors at the UK National Final in 2013
2011 GT Academy Winner Jann Mardenborough joins competitors at the UK National Final in 2013
Lamborghini Lambo V12 Vision Gran Turismo GIMS 2024 1X7A2043
Lamborghini Lambo V12 Vision Gran Turismo GIMS 2024 1X7A2043
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🖼️ Images & Media (10)
File:Gran Turismo stylised series logo (black).svg
Gran Turismo stylised series logo (black).svg
File:Gran Turismo Sport Gameplay.png
Gran Turismo Sport Gameplay.png
File:Kazunori Yamauchi at Gran Turismo 5 promo of Tokyo Game Show 20100916.jpg
Kazunori Yamauchi at Gran Turismo 5 promo...
File:Gran Turismo Screenshot.jpg
Gran Turismo Screenshot.jpg
File:Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Car on Games Convention 2008 (2783441756).jpg
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Car on Games...
File:Gamescom 2016 (29041973086).jpg
Gamescom 2016 (29041973086).jpg
File:Sparco racing kit 2001.jpg
Sparco racing kit 2001.jpg
File:Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII - 001 (2).jpg
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII - 001 (2).jpg
File:Lamborghini Lambo V12 Vision Gran Turismo GIMS 2024 1X7A2043.jpg
Lamborghini Lambo V12 Vision Gran Turismo...
File:2011 GT Academy Winner Jann Mardenborough joins competitors at the UK National Final in 2013.jpg
2011 GT Academy Winner Jann Mardenborough...
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