Gran Turismo
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GDC08: Logitech unveils Gran Turismo wheel
Want the perfect prologue to sim racing's most-distinguished brand? Tack another $150 onto that $40 download, as Logitech has unveiled the official, and pricey Driving Force GT racing wheel. Engineered specifically for Gran Turismo 5 Prologue (but compatible with GT4 and GT5 on PS2), the Driving Force features requisite force feedback, plus a new 24-position realtime adjustment dial (see -- it's red!), so you can fine-tune the brake bias, traction control and damper settings on-the-fly. Brake bias? Damper settings? Just point us to the boost button!The Driving Force GT wheel is "expected" to ship in May.%Gallery-16517%
GDC08: More Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screens really rev up our engines
Click for high-resolution image. Every time we get a glimpse of GT5, we can't help but feel overly giddy for more. Luckily, Sony's Three Speech blog really cranked out the Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screens today with more shots of tracks, cars, and the pit. The environments look so spectacularly life-like it's almost scary. We wouldn't want to crash in such a real simulation; it's just simply too much of a scary thought. Despite our crash-phobia, we're really looking forward to getting in this game's driver's seat and burning up some rubber. GT5's March-April release is just too far away. [Thanks Clayton!]%Gallery-4885%
Sony launches new Gran Turismo website
Sony's been pretty good at consistently releasing new videos and screens for Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, but now the game has a new official website where gamers can go to find all the information they need and maybe more, not only about the newest entry into the popular racing series, but also about the previous games, as well.The website currently has a heaping helping of screens, videos and news, but Sony promised us that it will "continuously update [the] site as [it] get ready for the title's launch in April and beyond." However, if that's still not enough for you gearheads, you can also show your undying support by pre-ordering the game.Go here to check it out.
Gran Turismo 5 screenshots: yes, it looks good
Click for high-resolution image. It shouldn't come as a surprise that Gran Turismo 5 Prologue looks good. We've known this all along. As its March release date inches ever closer, SCEA has released a small batch of new screenshots that cement its beauty even further. Take a look at this screenshot, for example. Look at the incredible lighting on the signs in the background. The way it reflects so realistically is truly brilliant. We'd love to just stop the car, and walk out to appreciate the scenery. Maybe this engine will be used in another game in the future? %Gallery-4885%
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue arrives stateside April 17
Were you the sort of kid who could never wait to open their Christmas presents? The tot who would lift one corner of the wrapping paper to catch a glimpse of the treasure inside? Now, would you have paid someone $40 for the privilege to do so? If so, you might be the perfect candidate for the $40 Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, which Sony dated today for an April 17 release. The sample will feature 60 cars from manufacturers like Ferrari, Audi and Nissan and five tracks like Daytona International Speedway and one on the streets of London. You can get your GT fix either from the PlayStation Network store or on a retail disc, though the latter option ships with an exclusive video. Both also include a parental scolding for not being able to restrain yourself.
GT5 Prologue pre-order found at $40
Your first real taste of next-gen GT is coming in March. At least, according to amazon.com and GameStop. Both retailers have pre-orders for the upcoming disc version of Prologue -- and for $40. There are those that think this is much too expensive for a "demo," while others will note the extensive features set that puts most retail games to shame.[Thanks, Craig!]
Gamestop cancels Gran Turismo pre-orders
Who's actually surprised by this one? The on-again off-again Gran Turismo Mobile project for PSP has been canceled so many times, we can't keep track anymore. According to IGN, it looks like retailer Gamestop is finally returning pre-order monies, due to "vendor cancellation." Supposedly, Polyphony wants to work on the PSP GT, but only when they're done with the massive Gran Turismo 5 on PS3. Who knows when that'll happen?Sorry to be such a dream killer, folks.
Video: Now playing on GT TV
Japanese gamers have been enjoying access to GT TV in Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. This feature is a wet dream come true for car fanatics, as it gives them access to some of the world's best automotive programming -- some which has never been available internationally before! We're certain that people will love getting Top Gear and the likes on their TVs. Check out what you're missing in this new video.
1960s Corvette stars in new GT5 screens
Click for high-resolution image. Car enthusiasts are going to drool when they see these new screenshots of Gran Turismo, which focus on the 1960s Corvette. Yes, this is a thing of beauty. The alluring curves, the smooth body, and the tight ... controls have us wanting more.If this classic car doesn't suit your taste, don't worry -- there's twenty new images added to our gallery. We're certain you'll find something that'll make you say "wow."%Gallery-4885%
Merry Christmas from Gran Turismo!
The team at Polyphony Digital made this short video (starring Santa!) to wish everyone Merry Christmas. But don't expect Rudolph and his red nose in this vid. No, Santa's driving away in a new car. And it looks awesome.[Thanks, Jeffrey M.!]
GT5 Prologue scores third place in Japanese charts
You know times have changed when the top three spots in Japan's software sales chart are no longer occupied by traditional fare, but rather a miasma of Mario mini-games, a balancercise board and a glorified automotive demo. Gamasutra runs down last week's top ten, highlighting Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo 5 Prologue which made its debut in third position with approximately 116,000 units sold. Professor Layton bully, Wii Fit, found itself parking off in second position with 124,000 units after having switched places with Mario Party DS and its 180,000 attendees. Nintendo proved the overall wii-ner, with six first-party titles accounted for in the chart -- in fact, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue was the only game not to be found on the Wii or DS. The two systems are expected to enjoy continued good fortune in the hardware sales chart due for release tomorrow.%Gallery-4884%
PS Fanboy Wallpapers: Volume 14
Every week, PSP and PS3 Fanboy will bring you new backgrounds for your Sony consoles, in resolutions up to 1080p. Download them directly to your PS3 by accessing PS3 Fanboy on your system. Download PSP wallpapers directly to your PSP by accessing the site wirelessly at m.pspfanboy.com. For those having trouble accessing the site on your PS3, please visit m.ps3fanboy.com or disable Javascript.This weekend, we're focusing on Sony's upcoming PS3 title Gran Turismo 5 Prologue.
PS3 Fanboy hands-on: Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is now available in Japan. However, US drivers will be able to get behind the wheel at the beginning of next year. The game, which will be available as a retail Blu-ray disc and as a downloadable title, is shaping up to be one of the best looking games ever made. Running at 60fps at 1080p, Prologue sports an incredible amount of detail. The cars are undeniably beautiful, but what really steals the show are the incredibly meticulously crafted car interiors. Not only do they look realistic, but the displays on the dashboard will accurately represent information to the player. Rear view and side view mirrors offer graphics just as detailed as the main game. We're sure that with Logitech's steering wheel installed, this will be the closest representation of real-life driving ever created in a video game.We were surprised to see the wide variety of car models and colors offered. Prologue may be a "taste" of the final GT5 (whenever it's done), but this sampling feels just as realized as full retail game. We'll have to spend more time with the final code, however, to make any final judgments.In addition to racing, Prologue offers an early version of GTTV, a VOD feature that grants access to the world's most prestigous car-related programming. Thanks to Sony's efforts, US owners will be able to watch programming that was once available exclusively in other territories. Esteeemed shows from both Japan and Europe will be available through the service.Prologue is yet another fantastic release for Q1 of next year. Some will want to hold off until the full version of Gran Turismo 5 is readied. Real car enthusiasts will find Prologue to be a fully featured, well crafted release that's worthy of their collection.%Gallery-4885%
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue speeds into Japanese storefronts
It would seem Gran Turismo 5 Prologue has made its launch in Japan and to the lauding of many a critic as an excellent game. Er, partial game. Well, we aren't entirely sure how to classify it, but it's launched in Japan. If you're really good at reading Japanese (or lines of question marks as this Firefox browser insists on showing), you can probably glean some more information from the listing, but as far as we can tell, it's totally a different language and we, like, can't read it.There seem to be planned updates through the new year already. It is great to see such continued support for the game. Hopefully we'll get our hands on it soon enough and see how poorly we actually drive. According to simulation.
GT5 Prologue seen driving into uncanny valley
This is your virtual car. (Points to car) This is your virtual car with its textures' reflectivity bumped up to 500%. (Points to own finger reflected from car's bumper) Any questions?In watching new trailer for Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, which debuted during last night's Spike VGAs, Joystiq's own Griffin McElroy made a strange and unintentionally philosophical observation: can mechanical objects cross into the uncanny valley? Can a computer-generated car be so detailed that it edges too close to reality and minor differences become glaring issues? Judge for yourself; the video is embedded above.
Japanese ad proclaims: Gran Turismo is a game!
We love this new ad from Japan, because we secretly hope our parents will react the same way. A Japanese family walks into an electronics store, and is amazed by the visual quality of Gran Turismo 5. The dad is startled to find out that he's not watching a TV program -- but a game. He stands, amazed in wonder of the awesome power that is the PS3. Honestly, wouldn't it be so cool if your folks had the same reaction?
Best in Show at GT Awards gets immortalized in Gran Turismo
The Gran Turismo Awards are a pretty neat ordeal for car enthusiasts across the world -- not only do you get to show off the hard work you've put into your cars, but you can get awarded for having the most impressive one there. What sort of awards? The title of "Best in Show" is pretty nice, but getting your car featured in a Gran Turismo game? That's nothing short of spectacular.The winner of the 2007 GT Awards was a 2007 Audi TT, submitted by Marcel Horn. Last year's winner was a 1960 Corvette, which you'll find in Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, and it looks excellent. You can check out the video above to see what the GT Awards are all about, or you can check out some pictures of the event and drool over some awesome rides. Your call.
Huge collection of new Gran Turismo 5 Prologue images
It's okay, you don't have to say a word. We know exactly what you're thinking. "Please, PS3 Fanboy. Can I see some more Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screenshots?" Ask and you shall receive, for we have a load of new screenshots just waiting your eager eyeballs to peruse over them. To mix things up a bit, we've snuck a photograph taken at a racetrack into the gallery. First person to find it wins a grand selection of prizes which, sadly, don't actually exist. It will be a fun exercise in futility, nonetheless. The gallery can be found below - go and have a look.%Gallery-9694%
Gran Turismo creators make actual car interior
Did you know that Polyphony Digital, makers of the world-renowned Gran Turismo series, actually works on real cars? In fact, they're responsible for the multiple function display of the upcoming Nissan GT-R. These displays are typical of modern airplanes, but is being utilized in Nissan's posh car.CNET goes through the details: "there are 11 user-definable display panels, its components (gauges and meters in both analog and digital display mode) being arrangeable according to the user's needs and taste." This technological piece of overkill could only come from Polyphony, with their thorough knowledge of both technology and cars.This isn't the first time Polyphony has worked closely with car manufacturers. It also produces simulation movies for car manufacturers, most likely using the same technology used in the Gran Turismo series.[Thanks, w.c.!]
Flirting with online in Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
In a revealing interview with Joystiq, Gran Turismo's Kazunori Yamauchi revealed the real reason behind the release of Prologue, the GT5 sample. "We wanted to keep those experiments to a rather smaller compact designed game and be able to experiment on a base that is small rather than having a humongous base to start with and for us to be for the first time bringing the online elements to the franchise with the scale of a huge mothership so to say." New features like GTTV must be tested, and Prologue allows the team to have access to a smaller user base at first. In many ways, Polyphony's approach to Prologue is akin to releasing a beta (that you have to pay for).When speaking about SIXAXIS controls, the developer noted that "We implemented one feature which was, if the person puts the controller down, the user interface will disappear, and if they pick it up it will appear back." Subtle features like these will be the norm, so don't expect to tilt the controller to control your dragon car. "Features like that we plan on implementing in GT5: Prologue. We feel like that is a good match."For the complete interview, visit Joystiq.
