With the console wars in full swing, Sony and Microsoft have started releasing their latest-generation racing titles. While their libraries may be large, the two leading contenders are the ultra popular Gran Turismo and Forza Motorsport. In this two-part blog, this writer is going to be reviewing both of fantastic tiles, taking a close look at what makes each special. So sit back, buckle up, and prepare for one heck of a ride.
It’s been over three years since Polyphony Digital released a new Gran Turismo title for the Playstation. Each game is a work of art as the company takes painstaking steps in order to produce the best racing title it can. With the release of Gran Turismo 6, that effort has truly paid off as they offer us near perfection, setting the bar ever higher for the series.
Jumping into the game easy as it offers an incredible array of choices. When I say ‘choices’ I mean over 1,200 cars, of which 120 are complexly new, which can be driven on a nearly endless array of tracks from Silverstone to Nürburgring. So if one second you’re in the mood to test out a Le Mans Prototype and in another want to want to ride off-road with the latest Subaru, well, you can!
The game does quite well as a driving simulator, pushing you to develop your skills and try to beat your times in any number of competitions. Sometimes progress can be slow as it forces you to take license test to compete in different areas, but on the track the physics are incredible, making each of these tasks a pleasure.
Where the game really shines is in the graphics department. It seems like each pixel of the supercars is carefully crafted to imbue a sense of realism. While some of the lesser known cars don’t have this attention to detail, and some of the background settings on the track could use some work, it is still quite a remarkable feat that looks as good as it feels.
The online mode is pretty good as well, offering a slightly different approach than the AI drivers that come with the game. Here, you’re going to face some tough competition from drivers all around the world as you pick and chose which event you want to take part in. While some have restrictions, it’s still good fun with a whole lot of choices.
Despite some minor issues, Gran Turismo 6 is one of the best racing simulators yet, making it a must-play for any car fanatic. So if you are lucky enough to own a Playstation 4 or are hoping for one this Christmas, pick this game up for yourself, there’s no way you’ll be disappointed.
4.5/5
