Status:
Complete and Play Tested
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Gran Turismo Sport (PS4) Review
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: October 17, 2017
Genre: Racing Simulation
Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
Gameplay & Mechanics
Gran Turismo Sport marks a shift in the franchises identity, pivoting from the expansive single-player career of earlier entries to a heavily online-focused structure. The driving physics are precise and weighty, offering a deeply rewarding experience for serious racing fans. Steering input, braking, and acceleration feel grounded in realism. The game supports a variety of driving aids, accommodating newcomers while offering purists the challenge they crave.
The handling model is excellent and responsive across multiple car types, from nimble hatchbacks to monstrous GT3 machines. Tuning options exist, but are streamlined compared to older titles. Damage modeling is present but minimalmore visual and performance-based than structural.
AI opponents are competent but predictable, lacking the dynamism of human racers. The standout element is how well the game functions as a competitive simulator, with rules, penalties, and sportsmanship ratings shaping online races into civilized, FIA-endorsed affairs.
Career & FanHub
GT Sport lacks a traditional career mode. Instead, it offers a "Campaign" mode, which is more a structured tutorial of driving challenges, mission races, and circuit experiences. While polished and occasionally fun, it's a far cry from the rich single-player progression seen in earlier Gran Turismo titles.
Theres no FanHub or deep player legacy building. Instead, progression revolves around leveling up, earning credits, and unlocking cars. Daily workout bonuses and mileage exchange incentives help maintain engagement but feel grindy.
Modes & Features
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Sport Mode: The core of GT Sports identity, featuring daily races, FIA-sanctioned championships, and scheduled online events. Requires an internet connection and enforces strict etiquette, punishing unsportsmanlike behavior.
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Arcade Mode: Includes single races, time trials, drift trials, and split-screen multiplayer. A fair selection of content for offline players but no true campaign.
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Scapes & Livery Editor: Surprisingly robust photo mode with real-world backdrops and a livery editor that allows deep customization of car appearances.
A controversial requirement is that even access to car collection and progression tracking is online-onlymeaning offline play is severely restricted.
Graphics & Presentation
Visually, Gran Turismo Sport is stunning. Car models are meticulously detailed, track environments are crisp, and lighting effectsespecially during golden hour racesare gorgeous. Frame rates are stable at 60fps, and HDR implementation adds visual depth.
Menus are sleek, though occasionally obtuse in navigation. The UI leans into minimalism, which fits the games clean and professional aesthetic.
Sound & Commentary
The engine sounds are a marked improvement over earlier GT games, which were criticized for "vacuum cleaner" audio. However, they still fall short of rivals like Assetto Corsa or Project CARS in terms of guttural realism. Tire screeches, wind noise, and environmental audio are solid but unremarkable.
The soundtrack blends loung
