Sony Interactive Entertainment and Polyphony Digital are gearing up for what’s expected to be the biggest update to Gran Turismo 7 since its launch. A magnum opus in the sim racing genre, the unannounced move is presumed to be a strategic play, potentially in response to the recent release of Forza Motorsport on Xbox.
Nenkaai, a noted modder and researcher with a reputation for reverse engineering, ignited the rumors with a series of tweets. The modder hinted that the forthcoming update for GT7 is “shaping to be the biggest one we’ve had so far”.
The specifics of the update remain shrouded in mystery. Will it bring in innovative features or race formats, or will it be more of the same, adding customary new events and cars? However, Nenkaai’s mention of the studio having “been cooking” alludes to something substantial in the pipeline.
Next one is shaping to be the biggest update we've had so far
May or may not be a direct response to FM8, but they've been cooking— Nenkai (@Nenkaai) October 16, 2023
Gran Turismo’s dedicated fan base might remember that the same modder had previously shed light on an intriguing detail. Nenkaai shared insights about the weather radar in an updated version of GT7. This version, showcased in the GTWS Showdown, displayed an astoundingly accurate map alongside a dynamic progression of the preceding 60 track minutes. This revelation points towards the possible introduction of simulated weather, an apt feature for a simulation game of GT7’s caliber. While some argue that such a feature should have been available at launch, it’s a classic case of better late than never.
Polyphony Digital’s Gran Turismo 7 is not just another addition to the racing genre. It holds the esteemed position of being the eighth chapter in the primary Gran Turismo series. The game, which made its debut during the PlayStation 5 reveal event in June 2020, was officially launched on March 4, 2022. Available on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, GT7 marked the series’ inaugural multi-console entry. Harnessing the advanced capabilities of the PlayStation 5 – from dedicated ray-tracing hardware to the custom solid-state drive storage, GT7 offers a riveting experience. It boasts of features like advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, real-time ray tracing during replays, and 3D spatial audio.
However, the journey for Gran Turismo 7 hasn’t been all smooth sailing. While GT7’s monthly updates consistently rolled out, many players found them lacking in substance. Often comprising a few new cars, photo locations, and occasionally some World Circuit races, the updates left many desiring more. Thankfully, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. If the modder Nenkaai’s revelations hold, the 1.40 update may prove to be the game-changer that GT7 needs.
A natural assumption is that the update will usher in several new cars, GT Café Menu Books, World Circuit races, and a handful of new Scape photo locations. But, most are expecting something more substantial. It has been long since new circuits were introduced – the last being the Grand Valley in February. What are the chances that the update will finally bring the long-rumored Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to GT7? The game also misses several legacy tracks.
A potentially groundbreaking feature is the introduction of Sophy AI. This technology, a collaboration between Sony AI and Polyphony Digital, could redefine artificial intelligence in racing games. Thanks to reinforcement learning, Sophy AI promises a driving experience mirroring human capabilities, capable of challenging even the most adept Gran Turismo players.
While fans and players remain on the edge of their seats, the likely release date for the 1.40 update is speculated to be October 26.
With the likes of Forza Horizon 5 and Forza Motorsport staking their claim in the racing sim genre, it’s game on for Gran Turismo 7. Only time will tell if this anticipated update will be the adrenaline shot GT7 needs to maintain its pole position.
