Gran Turismo 4

The Good
Everything about this game seemed to find it's place in racing history. There's about 780 cars and 50 tracks to choose from including all the original GT courses as well as World Class Circuits you would find on TV. There's also rally tracks to race on too.

All the cars are modeled to their exact specs and all have realistic handling. No more spinning out like crazy from the previous installments, and tons of customizing options both in performance and visual appeal. So no matter what car you get, you'll have a different one as the end result.

The AI in the game can be challenging at times, and almost near impossible to beat if you have a low performance car. But with the right tune up and changes, it can become a winner.

Gameplay is pretty solid, there are many strategies to use with the different cars, and you'll be trying them all trying to win a race. There were some inconsistencies that I didn't like and I will note about them in the next section, but although it just takes time to beat every single race. That's whats part of the challenge.

The Bad
As I said above, the gameplay especially with some aspects of it sounds more like a double-standard. You can't do one thing, but the AI can do it all he wants and will strive to screw you in the end. It works during the rally events, if you bump a car, or hit a wall at an angle, it'll give you a 5 sec. penalty. But the AI car can hit the wall and bump you or cut in front you without incurring the penalty. It get's on your nerves on those long narrow tracks where only one car can pass through.

When you're getting your licenses, on some tracks where you want to strive for golds, the pace car up front will not let you pass without a DQ. You can't even hit it or make contact at all or you will fail. On some tracks if you want a key time to get that one car, you either tailgate the pace car which is dangerous and is always a immediate fail if you dont watch where you're going.

The Bottom Line
Other than a few annoying things, it's still a great game to play by yourself or with friends. Once you figure out the pattern for each track, the challenge dies a bit, but it can be raised depending on the event. It's a must-get for any racing fanatic and also a fan of the series! A totally new feel and look which gives way to great racing fun!