In a monumental update that marks a significant milestone in the evolution of racing simulators, Polyphony Digital has unveiled a suite of enhancements for Gran Turismo 7 that not only refine the gaming experience but also showcase the astounding advances in artificial intelligence within the gaming sphere.
The Gran Turismo Sophy AI, initially tested earlier this year, has made a triumphant return to the racing simulator, not as a fleeting feature but as a permanent fixture, endowed with expanded functionality.
GT Sophy 2.0, a formidable and autonomous AI agent, is a showcase of the hard work that Sony AI and Polyphony have put into it as it has meticulously engineered this technology to mimic the expertise of skilled Gran Turismo players. The result is a simulation of a race with a human opponent, elevating the racing experience to newer heights of competition and realism.
Unlike standard CPU racers, GT Sophy 2.0 uses player data, adapting and learning to provide a formidable challenge. Its integration is seamless, available across 340 different cars and nine tracks in the game’s Quick Race mode, offering a nuanced and thrilling racing experience for those on the PlayStation 5.
However, the advancements don’t halt at AI integration. The Spec II update, named for its significant overhaul of Gran Turismo 7, introduces an array of features that enrich Gran Turismo 7. A new cooperative mode, the four-player split-screen Couch mode, evokes a nostalgic ’90s charm, allowing players to engage in races on a shared screen. This feature, exclusive to the PS5, caters to the communal spirit of gaming, allowing friends to gather and compete in the comfort of their living room.
Accompanying the latest Gran Turismo 7 update is the addition of seven new toys for you to play with, ranging from the classic American muscle car, the Dodge Charger R/T 426 Hemi ’68 to the contemporary electric zeal of the Tesla Model 3 Performance ’23. Each vehicle brings its unique history and performance characteristics, enriching the game’s already vast array of automotive choices. The update further presents a new track, the Lake Louise Snow Circuit, set against the majestic backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. This track, with its tri-oval and long and short track variations, promises to challenge players with its mix of high-speed and low-speed corners, adding a layer of complexity and excitement to the races.
Moreover, the update doesn’t shy away from enhancing the game’s aesthetics and user experience. With new Scapes, an updated progression screen, and a refreshed Photo Mode, players will enjoy a more immersive and visually engaging environment. These seemingly small tweaks are part of the broader narrative of continuous improvement and attention to detail that has been the hallmark of Polyphony Digital’s approach to game development.
Gran Turismo 7, since its launch, has strived to deliver an experience that goes beyond mere racing simulation. With the recent updates, which introduces GT Sophy 2.0 and four-player split-screen couch co-op, Polyphony is proving that it remains committed to improving the racing experience.
It remains to be seen if Gran Turismo 7 will be available to play on the PC. Sony nor Polyphony Digital have yet to make an official confirmation. But, the last we heard is that it isn’t coming to PC anytime soon.
