Developer: Polyphony Digital Publisher: SCEE | Format: PS3
Reviewer: Craig Jay Gallagher Gran Turismo 5 promises to be the finest real world driving simulator, and chances are that it will deliver upon this promise when released. Till then we have Gran Turismo Prologue which can only be described as a teaser. While its absolutely amazing to look at and be technically awe inspiring it's all just a little underwhelming.
The setup is pretty much the same as in previous titles. You compete in a number of races, constantly unlocking new events and classes all the time earning credits which can be used to purchase better and better cars. Thankfully you no longer have to complete those damned licence tests in order to begin racing. That said there is an extremely challenging learning curve which gets more and more difficult over the several different race formats.
The various racing formats are the usual generic race, time trial, single laps and overtaking. Starting with just 35,000 credits you must purchase the most basic of cars. After completing a few races you will have enough credits to purchase a more powerful vehicle or you can save your credits and complete a 10 race series to win an extra exclusive new car. There is no option to upgrade individual car parts though as the game progresses you acquire the ability quick tune your car.
GT relies on proficient driving allowing no margin for gamer errors. The control system is technically awe inspiring. They are perfectly accurate without over becoming over sensitive. This allows precision driving which results in the most fluid driving experience on any console though damage modelling remains something of an oversight. The illusion of real world driving is quickly killed by the ability to bounce off walls at 160mph and continue driving.
Given the budget price tag Prologue is a must own title. Even though it is little more than a prelude to what is to come, it still remains the finest driving title on the PS3 or any console for that matter.
Got this on Friday and thought that it had been mispriced given how cheap it was in comparision to every other PS3 title. Only realised after reading the above review that it's not supposed to be a full gmae hence the price.
Still a great title and one that is well worth picking up.
Posted by: Darkest_hour | Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 05:58 PM