GRAN TURISMO CONCEPT: 2002 TOKYO - GENEVA


Ready for a new concept?

By TOM FAHEY

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone, prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone and silence the piano

Then, with a muffled drum roll bring out the PS2 and let the next GT adventure begin.

That's right gamers: The next chapter to the Gran Turismo series is here.

And with this latest instalment, Polyphony Digital introduce a number - quite a large number at that - of brand-spanking new concept cars from the many big names such as Toyota, Nissan, RUF, Dodge, and pretty much all of the others seen in GT3 A-spec. This, ladies and gentlemen, is 'The real driving simulator' at its, umm, newest.

Many gamers would be pleased to know that pretty much nothing has changed. The basic set-up is slightly different, but the same GT3 game engine has been used. So it is simply just another GT3, but with the newest range of cars.

When you think about it though, what's the point in spending another four years or so on a new simulator, when the GT3 engine is already perfect?

Firstly, I think you guys should know that there is no longer a garage. Not only that, but you can't buy or sell cars, nor even earn money! But don't worry ladeez and gents, please take your seats and the show will go on.

You see, the whole point of GT Concept is unlocking the new cars through mastery of the game, as opposed to basic economics.

In GT3, the fifth car I won was the Polyphony F1. I shit you not! So my uncontrollable burning desires to race an F1 against a vicious field of Mini Coopers on the Super Speedway kind of ruined the game for me. I
was only 6 or 7 per cent through the game, and I already had the best car.

But now, in GT Concept, you attain licences on the various tracks, which total just short of a dozen. Pick one car from a range of about 50 and race on those licensed tracks against other cars of a similar standard to yours.

So, if you pick out a nice RUF RGT (Porsche), then your opposition may consist of a Dodge
Viper GTS-R Concept, a Corvette Z06, and perhaps a Nissan GT-R Concept. No complaining -- fair's fair.

It does make for a really good challenge too - no more quasi-cheating.

The unlocking of cars is split into groups - with many cars to unlock relating to each track. For attaining a bronze award on a track license you will win a car. For the gold license on the same track you get another, usually faster car.

When racing on that track against others, there are the two cars to unlock, one for each of the two difficulty levels. Therefore, you can unlock four cars per track. Quite simple really.

If you'd like to hear about the game engine (the physics and stuff) then I can tell you that it is simply awesome! It is amazing how accurate the cars respond in relation to real life. But of course, I'd have no means for comparison because I've never been over the speed limit ever. Not me... Never!

Anyone out there seen Days of Thunder with Tom Cruse? Well if so, remember when he gets into the slip stream of the other car? Well what that means is, if you drive really close behind another car going at high
speeds, the car behind doesn't need to use as much power to keep up.

When the finish line comes, the car behind can use its extra power to shoot past the leader and win the race - as Tom Cruse did so gracefully.

Well, anyway, my point is, you can do that in GT Concept (and GT3 A-spec for that matter). This game engine is top notch. For further details, I recommend William Barker's review on Gran Turismo 3 A-spec.

The graphics in GT Concept are no different to GT3, as the two use a similar graphics engine. In fact there is no difference at all in graphics, sound, game play, and any other means of design. The only difference lies in the structure of the game, really.

For example, scrapping the garage and the 'buy and sell' options. Though don't let this discourage you... There's a big surprise which may just effect a GT3 saved game if you complete 100% of GT Concept. But I'm not giving away any hints... Really, I'm not!!

Anyway, back to the graphics: They're really good. You can actually see reflections of other cars on the paint work - it's just too cool. Not just other cars though, but the sky too. Whatever you drive by, if your car is
fit and polished then you get quality reflections ^-^

Some nice smoke and particle effects are utilised here and there, and the sound is nice and crisp, to boot. The rev sounds differ between cars, which makes for a very authetic experience when playing the game. Also, if you tune your car - for example widen the gear ratios - then its sound will also slightly change.

It's so much fun studying games like this one - with a good sound track too? Bliss. Nothing like listening to cool music to pump up your game performance. Though I still can't help over-turning when drifting with the Skyline...

Sigh....

Now, take a deep breath, relax your mind, and think about what really counts. People, this is Gran Turismo! Have they ever let you down before?

No. I don't think so.

Sure this latest issue is slightly off track, maybe a little different, but it's nice for a little spin off - so to speak. Besides, if you're a massive car fan, then your incentive is getting to see what some of the best European and Asian car manufacturers have to offer.

Lastly, you can even catch a glimpse of some of the most flashy (and nutty) prototype cars around, some of which are like five years off! GT Concept 2002 Tokyo - Geneva is definately one to consider.

ORIGINALITY 50%
SOUND/GRAPHICS 90%
PLAYABILITY 90%
ADDICTION 90%
ENJOYMENT 90%