Celebrating 30 years in 2024, PlayStation owes much of its success to the Gran Turismo series, crafted by Polyphony Digital. Launched in 1997, this "real driving simulator" featured licensed cars and gave players the thrill of upgrading parts for the ultimate driving experience. The dream of car ownership runs deep in the series, making each car a potential icon for players.
Everyone has a personal iconic car in Gran Turismo—be it the starter car you upgraded to victory or the prized vehicle from your first endurance win. Yet, some cars have achieved legendary status for all players: vehicles that epitomize the essence of the game and linger in collective memory.
Introduced in Gran Turismo 2, the 1998 Escudo Pikes Peak, boasting an impressive 981bhp, was the first truly overpowered car. Though it could break the game once unlocked, its legacy endures, featuring in nearly every release up to Gran Turismo 7.
While many players never owned it due to its steep price in GT2, the race-spec Skyline R33 captivated imaginations. Its striking design and turbocharged power were the stuff of dreams, enticing players with the promise of eventual ownership after countless races.
Vision Gran Turismo invited manufacturers to imagine without limits. Most delivered futuristic designs, yet Lamborghini remained true to its angular heritage with its 2019 V12 concept in GT7, skillfully blending tradition with innovation.
Gran Turismo shines in showcasing Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles. The Daihatsu Midget II D-Type, with its modest 0.7-liter engine, captures the joy of transforming simple machines into champions through upgrades.
The ‘96 and ‘97 Castrol Supras are both iconic, with the ‘97 model shining in GT7. At a time when race cars were sparse in games, the Supra distinguished itself with precision, even amidst the limited controls of a PS1.
Designed by Adrian Newey, the X2010 boasts near-limitless downforce and was virtually untouchable in GT5. Its extreme performance makes it both challenging and rewarding, symbolizing the pinnacle of racing innovation.
A dominant force in the Japanese Grand Touring Car Championship, the Mugen NSX was a prized gem in GT3. Players invested hours to claim this car, forever immortalized in the game's opening cinematic.
Gran Turismo has left an indelible mark on automotive gaming. By realistically portraying JDM heroes and fostering a global appreciation for concept cars and racing legends, its iconic vehicles reflect various facets of its vibrant history.
Summary: Gran Turismo has forged lasting automotive legends through innovative gaming. From overpowered racers to vision concept cars, these vehicles symbolize the series' legacy and continue to inspire new generations of players.
 | It's amazing to see how Gran Turismo has evolved over the years! I can't wait to see what they do in the future. More iconic cars and better graphics await us! |
 | Gran Turismo might be nostalgia now, but I fear it's losing touch with what made it great. The upcoming titles could just be disappointing cash grabs. |
