As hardware technology develops, the potential for accuracy in simulation titles becomes increasingly apparent. The stunning visuals and increased frame rates that are available to players with modern PC advancements, as well as the power of new consoles allows for more authenticity.Racing games have been some of the first to try and emulate the real-world feelingin the virtual sphere.Gran Turismo 7was recently the subject of a State of Play deep dive and, much like its genre contemporaries, the game looks to be a visual marvel.
The beauty seems to be more than skin-deep, though, as the gameplay shown straddles the line between the series' reputation for precision, and fast-paced, tense, wheel-to-wheel duels.Gran Turismo 7is an opportunity to right the wrongs of some other installments in the franchise, which had a tendency to feel sluggish compared to itsForza,andNeed for Speedcompetition. By taking advantage of the PS5’s monstrous power,Gran Turismo 7has the capability to cater to fans of the racing genre as a whole, effectively bridging the gap between players who gorge on theNeed For Speedseries or hone their skills inAssetto Corsa.
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The Legacy Leading to Gran Turismo 7
Since the firstGran Turismoreleased in the west on the original PlayStation in the spring of 1998, players were spoiled by the selection available, and racing them around some of the world’s most iconic circuits was an exciting thought thatGran Turismomade a reality. The seventh mainline entry is no different, asGran Turismo 7is undoubtedly a love letter to car culture, as well as the thrill of racing them in a virtual setting.
That isn’t to say that titles likeForza Motorsportand theDiRTseries aren’t, however. There are numerous games in the racing genre that are appealing to players with an interest in motorsport, but the pedigree ofGran Turismo,coupled with the fact that the upcoming release hasover 400 types of cars available on release, means it’s in prime position to be something that appeals to players of all racing game persuasions.
Bridging The Gap
Titles likeAssetto Corsaand the much-lovedF1series by developer Codemasters require more than just a DualSense or Xbox wireless controller to reach the truly blistering lap times. Often, a more elaborate set-up is required, with a racing wheel, pedals, and rig being the recipe for success in games that prioritize the simulation side of the racing genre.Gran Turismo 7has the former covered, withFanatec partnering with the brand to release the GT DD Pro Wheel, specifically made with the game in mind.
This is unlikely to entice existing sim racing gamers away from their hefty set-up, but it’s a huge step on the journey to shrinking the disparity between casual audiences, and hardcore racers.Gran Turismo 7’s implementation of accurate weather mechanics and intricate vehicle customization will appeal to everyone andtaking advantage of the haptic feedback and adaptive triggersallows for more passive players to experience a small, but significant, amount of immersion. Tiny details to players who like to relax with their racing games, and critical components of the experience to white-knuckled, high octane racers.
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Appealing to Everyone, Casual or Hardcore
There’s every chance that series loyalty means few will flock toGran Turismo 7overForza Horizon 5, which also executes the racing formula wonderfully, albeit in a more flashy, vibrant way. However, withGran Turismo 7also releasing on PS4, the game won’t be isolating anyone who still can’t get their hands on a PlayStation 5, which grants the opportunity to bring more players into theGran Turismofold.
While the competition between franchises is as present as it has always been,Forza HorizonandGran Turismohave always satisfied different ends of the middle-ground market. WhileForza Horizonfocuses on open-world, grand touring,Gran Turismohas always ruled the track, but both are far from the extremes of arcade-inspiredNeed For Speed,or the simulation-heavyAssetto Corsa andF1games. Unlike many of its counterparts,Gran Turismo7has the opportunity to bring the precision of track racing to casual audiences, ensuring the often unwelcoming genre is suitable for all abilities.
Gran Turismo 7launches July 24, 2025 on PS4 and PS5.
