- 289
- mclaren777
I've been taking advantage of this site and the news that you guys so graciously share and I finally feel the need to contribute something to the mix. So here's an official press release that I got in the mail. Some of it's old and some of it's new. But the main thing is that it's all official. Enjoy!
PRESS RELEASE
Gran Turismo 4 Product Summary
In the winter of 1997, the original Gran Turismo changed the history
of racing games. This year, Gran Turismo 4 will cause another
revolution to the world of racing games. Gran Turismo was the pioneer
for introducing a new playing style by allowing players to spend just
as much time watching and enjoy replays of their performance as
racing.
Gran Turismo 4's new Director Mode (or B-Spec) is based on the premise
of playing through the replay view angle only. A "Racing RPG" so to
speak, B-Spec = Director Mode introduces the "Gran Turismo that
players don't drive". In B-Spec = Director Mode, the game proceeds in
the replay view point (Broadcast view) from the start of the race. GT4
includes the traditional experience where players participate and
drive for themselves, referred to as A-spec. But this time, players
will also have the option to be the director or race team manager of
their race, and not have to worry about driving (as B-spec).
B-Spec = Director Mode brings a new experience to racing games, in
which players driving themselves has previously been the standard. In
B-spec, players give directions, taking on the role of a race team
manager, giving directions to their A.I. driver and competing in their
races. This mode can be applied to all of the races available in GT4,
and does not standalone as a game mode by itself. Players can complete
all of the races included in GT Mode by using B-Spec = Director Mode,
without driving themselves at all. Players who had difficulty in
racing can now take the option of carefully preparing their car for a
race, sharing the excellence and exhilarating excitement of racing in
a whole new style of racing games. That is what B-Spec = Director Mode
is all about.
B-Spec = Director Mode Features:
Playing Screen:
Playing screens will consist of the following, Broadcast view (replay
view), On-board camera for each car, Race monitor screen. Players will
make the best use of the three available screens to understand and
evaluate the race.
Race Monitor Screen:
During the race, this screen will provide information on each car,
such as lap time, sector times, time differences, which lap they went
in for a pit stop, etc. to give the player an overall idea of what is
going on in the race.
Settings/Car Set Up:
Car set up is likely to be much more important than when players drive
themselves. Players can conduct tests on their settings, and tyre
selection before the actual race. They will have to plan very
strategically across the number of laps in the race.
Pace Command:
Players can give pace commands to their driver on a 5 level scale
between Easy to Hard. Whether they chose to race safely and be easy on
the tires, or push hard, beat up the tires and take risks, the choice
is with the player.
Overtake Command:
Overrides the pace command and concentrates on over taking the car ahead.
Pit In Command:
Commands the driver to pull into the pit for refueling or tyre changes.
Pit Menu:
Allows players to adjust their selection of tyres (front/rear) and
volume of fuel for refueling.
****
Enjoy the car lifestyle in the motor resort city - "Gran Turismo Resort" emerges
The Gran Turismo series is known for its driving and car lifestyle
simulation game characteristics. The game's identity is firmly rooted
in the car lifestyle simulation mode - GT mode. In the upcoming GT4,
the Gran Turismo World will expand significantly. Starting from their
home (or garage), players can explore car dealerships from around the
world, visit used car dealers and tuning shops. Race events will be
held in event pavilions set up by genre and Racing Fields will be
located in the suburbs. The familiar License Test Centre returns, but
this time on a much larger scale. For beginners and loyal fans of the
GT series alike, Motor Resort City includes everything you need to
enjoy your car lifestyle to the extreme. This is the Gran Turismo
World.
Gran Turismo Resort Facilities:
"My home" will act as the player's home and garage
"Car Towns" by territory will consist of dealerships for the numerous
car manufacturers
"Tuner's Village" will consist of famous car tuning shops
"Race Event Pavilions" will be categorized by their various concepts
"License Centre" will be the venue for the license tests
New and Old Used Car Dealerships/Shops available
"Music Theatre" enables players to enjoy music from artists around the world
"Circuit Areas" are located in the suburbs where an event is held at each track
Over 80 manufacturers and 650 cars
GT4 will include the largest variety of cars in the Gran Turismo
series, ranging from some of the earliest automobile models to today's
vehicles, with an emphasis on cars of the 80s and 90s.
The Tracks: Travel the landscapes of the world
The origins of the words Gran Turismo takes us back into the 17th and
18th century where European aristocrats traveled long distances across
the continent in horse-drawn carriages. Today, the words Gran Turismo
define a car designed and suited for long distance travel. The keyword
for GT4 is "the heart of a traveler" and the latest game includes
breath-taking locations of cities or of nature from around the world.
Take your favorite car and travel the world. GT4 also includes world
renowned tracks (closed circuits).
Existing Tracks from Japan
Fuji Speedway '80
This is the Fuji Speedway course layout which was in use up until the
80s. The track was famous for being one of the fastest tracks around
the world. Players can experience the old Fuji Speedway.
Fuji Speedway '90
This is the Fuji Speedway after its first major renewal in the 80s up
to 2003. The latest Fuji Speedway known to all.
Tsukuba Circuit 2000
The Tsukuba Circuit is known as the sacred grounds for Japanese sports
cars. Numerous production cars and tuning cars use this track as their
benchmark for performance evaluation. Players can experiment with car
modifications and see what effects they have on the car's lap time.
Twin Ring Motegi (full course)
This is Japan's International Racing Course. Twin Ring Motegi's road
course is known for demanding driver's techniques and is harsh on the
brakes.
Twin Ring Motegi (Oval Track)
Japan's only 1.5 mile oval course, built for the Indy Car Race
Suzuka Circuit (full course)
This track is known as the home of the Formula One Japan Grand Prix,
and is also demanding of driver's techniques. Finally, Suzuka Circuit
is to be included in the GT series. Experience Suzuka with the "Real
Driving Simulator".
Existing Tracks from North America
Laguna Seca Raceway
This track is one of the most well known and favoured track in
America, included in past GT titles. For GT4, the team has revisited
and remeasured the track and it will be replaced in higher quality. In
past titles, the setting was late afternoon with the sunset, this time
the setting will be midday with beautiful weather.
Sears Point Raceway
Located in Sonoma County, near San Francisco, Sears Point Raceway
shares its popularity with Laguna Seca Raceway amongst car fans. The
course layout suggests low to mid speeds and is demanding of drivers'
skills. By looking at the cars that gather at this track, one could
say this is the Tsukuba Circuit of North America.
Existing Tracks from Europe
Nurburgring Nordschleife
The world's most challenging and difficult track is 20.8 kilometers
long, and consists of 176 turns. The Nurburgring track is known for
car manufacturers bringing their latest sport cars for testing.
Mastering this track may take some time, but is for the same reasons
quite rewarding. The history of joy and excitement of driving in
racing games is about to be changed.
City Courses
Tokyo R246
This was a popular track included in GT3. With the latest GT4
technology, this track is back with more beauty and more realism.
Seattle
Another popular city track included in the series since GT2. With the
latest GT4 technology, this track is back with more beauty and more
realism. The time setting has changed from sunset to mid-day clear
skies.
New York
This track takes the centre of New York, Midtown Manhattan and builds
a city track around it. With its multiple 90 degree turns this is a
technical track. Players can enjoy a bit of sightseeing as the track
includes Broadway, Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Central Park and more.
Hong Kong
Developed and created with full support from the Hong Kong Govt.
Tourism Department.
Other City Courses will include:
Las Vegas Drag Strip, George V Paris, Opera Paris, Cote D'Azur,
Special Stage Route 5, Citta di Aria
Nature Courses
Grand Canyon
Swiss Alps
Ice Arena
Grand Valley
Trial Mountain
Midfield Raceway
Snow Lake
High Speed Ring
Amalfee Circuit
Motorsports Land
Tahiti Maze
Autumn Ring
**Additional tracks to be seen in GT4 will be announced at a later date.
Photo Mode
GT4 brings another new feature to the series called Photo Mode,
enhancing the watching/observing mode one step further. "Photo Drive"
is included in all of the GT4 courses, allowing players to take photos
of their car on the track. Players can use real photography
techniques, such as zoom, depth of field and motion blur. Special and
exclusive locations for photos will also be available at "Photo
Travel". Players can travel in their favorite car to various locations
around the world and take photos at a wide variety of angles. Photos
can be printed on a compatible colour printer or saved to memory card
to share with your friends.
Photo Travel (15 stages in all)
Gion District, Kyoto Japan
Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto Japan
Sagano, Kyoto Japan
Tsumago, Nagano, Japan
Piazza San Marco, Venice Italy
Realto Bridge, Venice Italy
Shibuya, Tokyo Japan
Tokyo International Forum, Tokyo Japan
Shiga Kogen, Nagano Japan
Brooklyn, New York NY USA
Times Square, New York NY USA
Asian Fish Market
Freemont Street, Las Vegas NV USA
Louisberg Square, Boston MA USA
The Human Aspect
The Gran Turismo series has always injected realism into the cars and
their surrounding environments. Now, GT4 takes the challenge of
conveying the final essential element - people. The driver's human
movements, the recreation of the pit crew, and the movement of the
spectators have all been replicated. This completes the triangle -
cars, people and nature - that the team has always wanted to achieve.
This achievement adds to the overall realism of the cars taking the
Gran Turismo series to new dimensions.
Car Physics Simulation Engine
The car physics simulation engine allows for more reality in the car's
performance at higher standards, making the actual driving experience
easier. The accuracy level is equivalent to sports driving in real
life.
New Generation Driver Assist Functions
In addition to anti-lock brakes, traction control systems and active
stability control, GT4 will also include active steering. With all of
the safety devices combined and controlled at high standards, this
allows for beginners to enjoy the pleasures of driving.
The Latest Modifications
The fun of modifying a favorite car has increased significantly.
Reflecting the latest car tuning trends, Superchargers and NOS
(Nitrogen) will now be available. The range of tires and other factors
allows for more flexibility of the player's car set up. The new car
physics simulation engine is more delicate and responds with more
realism.
Steering Controller "GT FORCE Pro"
The Logitech "GT FORCE Pro" is a 2.5 turn lock to lock steering
controller, developed as a joint project between Logitech and
Polyphony Digital Inc. The force feedback on the steering has been
enhanced, as well as the firmness and stability of the product.
A New Proposal to Racing: "Mission Races"
This is a new concept to the Gran Turismo series, structured in a
mission-clearing-based race event.
The race will not necessarily start from the starting grid. There will
be set conditions for the start of the race for players to challenge.
For example: a player may have to start one second later in second
place, starting one lap behind and having to finish first. These are
settings which are highly likely in the worlds of real racing. Players
experience the drama of racing, and are sure to enjoy the challenge of
clearing each mission.
Introducing a new "High Score" system
The races in the GT series have always had specific race regulations
for player to follow, such as limitation on tyres, maximum power, etc.
In GT4, most of these regulations will be omitted to allow for more
variety of cars to participate in each of the races, as well as their
modification ranges. For example, a player can take a 600 horsepower
car and participate in a race setting for cars in the range of 150
horsepower.
The new "High Score" system will work as follows. Players will earn
high points winning a race at a disadvantage (disadvantage or
advantage is measure by whether a player's car is slower or faster
than opponent cars), and conversely, players at an advantage will earn
less points. With the introduction of this "High Score" system,
players have more freedom in their gaming style. Some may take a very
fast car and win the races easily, whereas some of the more stoic
players will intentionally take the disadvantage and truly test their
driving skills. This system meets the demands of a wide range of
gaming styles and players.
Developer: Polyphony Digital Inc.
Genre: Driving Simulation
Players: 1- 2 players
Peripherals: GT Force®, GT Force Pro®, Network Adaptor, Analogue
Controller (DUALSHOCK 2), Memory Card (8MB) (for PlayStation 2)
PRESS RELEASE
Gran Turismo 4 Product Summary
In the winter of 1997, the original Gran Turismo changed the history
of racing games. This year, Gran Turismo 4 will cause another
revolution to the world of racing games. Gran Turismo was the pioneer
for introducing a new playing style by allowing players to spend just
as much time watching and enjoy replays of their performance as
racing.
Gran Turismo 4's new Director Mode (or B-Spec) is based on the premise
of playing through the replay view angle only. A "Racing RPG" so to
speak, B-Spec = Director Mode introduces the "Gran Turismo that
players don't drive". In B-Spec = Director Mode, the game proceeds in
the replay view point (Broadcast view) from the start of the race. GT4
includes the traditional experience where players participate and
drive for themselves, referred to as A-spec. But this time, players
will also have the option to be the director or race team manager of
their race, and not have to worry about driving (as B-spec).
B-Spec = Director Mode brings a new experience to racing games, in
which players driving themselves has previously been the standard. In
B-spec, players give directions, taking on the role of a race team
manager, giving directions to their A.I. driver and competing in their
races. This mode can be applied to all of the races available in GT4,
and does not standalone as a game mode by itself. Players can complete
all of the races included in GT Mode by using B-Spec = Director Mode,
without driving themselves at all. Players who had difficulty in
racing can now take the option of carefully preparing their car for a
race, sharing the excellence and exhilarating excitement of racing in
a whole new style of racing games. That is what B-Spec = Director Mode
is all about.
B-Spec = Director Mode Features:
Playing Screen:
Playing screens will consist of the following, Broadcast view (replay
view), On-board camera for each car, Race monitor screen. Players will
make the best use of the three available screens to understand and
evaluate the race.
Race Monitor Screen:
During the race, this screen will provide information on each car,
such as lap time, sector times, time differences, which lap they went
in for a pit stop, etc. to give the player an overall idea of what is
going on in the race.
Settings/Car Set Up:
Car set up is likely to be much more important than when players drive
themselves. Players can conduct tests on their settings, and tyre
selection before the actual race. They will have to plan very
strategically across the number of laps in the race.
Pace Command:
Players can give pace commands to their driver on a 5 level scale
between Easy to Hard. Whether they chose to race safely and be easy on
the tires, or push hard, beat up the tires and take risks, the choice
is with the player.
Overtake Command:
Overrides the pace command and concentrates on over taking the car ahead.
Pit In Command:
Commands the driver to pull into the pit for refueling or tyre changes.
Pit Menu:
Allows players to adjust their selection of tyres (front/rear) and
volume of fuel for refueling.
****
Enjoy the car lifestyle in the motor resort city - "Gran Turismo Resort" emerges
The Gran Turismo series is known for its driving and car lifestyle
simulation game characteristics. The game's identity is firmly rooted
in the car lifestyle simulation mode - GT mode. In the upcoming GT4,
the Gran Turismo World will expand significantly. Starting from their
home (or garage), players can explore car dealerships from around the
world, visit used car dealers and tuning shops. Race events will be
held in event pavilions set up by genre and Racing Fields will be
located in the suburbs. The familiar License Test Centre returns, but
this time on a much larger scale. For beginners and loyal fans of the
GT series alike, Motor Resort City includes everything you need to
enjoy your car lifestyle to the extreme. This is the Gran Turismo
World.
Gran Turismo Resort Facilities:
"My home" will act as the player's home and garage
"Car Towns" by territory will consist of dealerships for the numerous
car manufacturers
"Tuner's Village" will consist of famous car tuning shops
"Race Event Pavilions" will be categorized by their various concepts
"License Centre" will be the venue for the license tests
New and Old Used Car Dealerships/Shops available
"Music Theatre" enables players to enjoy music from artists around the world
"Circuit Areas" are located in the suburbs where an event is held at each track
Over 80 manufacturers and 650 cars
GT4 will include the largest variety of cars in the Gran Turismo
series, ranging from some of the earliest automobile models to today's
vehicles, with an emphasis on cars of the 80s and 90s.
The Tracks: Travel the landscapes of the world
The origins of the words Gran Turismo takes us back into the 17th and
18th century where European aristocrats traveled long distances across
the continent in horse-drawn carriages. Today, the words Gran Turismo
define a car designed and suited for long distance travel. The keyword
for GT4 is "the heart of a traveler" and the latest game includes
breath-taking locations of cities or of nature from around the world.
Take your favorite car and travel the world. GT4 also includes world
renowned tracks (closed circuits).
Existing Tracks from Japan
Fuji Speedway '80
This is the Fuji Speedway course layout which was in use up until the
80s. The track was famous for being one of the fastest tracks around
the world. Players can experience the old Fuji Speedway.
Fuji Speedway '90
This is the Fuji Speedway after its first major renewal in the 80s up
to 2003. The latest Fuji Speedway known to all.
Tsukuba Circuit 2000
The Tsukuba Circuit is known as the sacred grounds for Japanese sports
cars. Numerous production cars and tuning cars use this track as their
benchmark for performance evaluation. Players can experiment with car
modifications and see what effects they have on the car's lap time.
Twin Ring Motegi (full course)
This is Japan's International Racing Course. Twin Ring Motegi's road
course is known for demanding driver's techniques and is harsh on the
brakes.
Twin Ring Motegi (Oval Track)
Japan's only 1.5 mile oval course, built for the Indy Car Race
Suzuka Circuit (full course)
This track is known as the home of the Formula One Japan Grand Prix,
and is also demanding of driver's techniques. Finally, Suzuka Circuit
is to be included in the GT series. Experience Suzuka with the "Real
Driving Simulator".
Existing Tracks from North America
Laguna Seca Raceway
This track is one of the most well known and favoured track in
America, included in past GT titles. For GT4, the team has revisited
and remeasured the track and it will be replaced in higher quality. In
past titles, the setting was late afternoon with the sunset, this time
the setting will be midday with beautiful weather.
Sears Point Raceway
Located in Sonoma County, near San Francisco, Sears Point Raceway
shares its popularity with Laguna Seca Raceway amongst car fans. The
course layout suggests low to mid speeds and is demanding of drivers'
skills. By looking at the cars that gather at this track, one could
say this is the Tsukuba Circuit of North America.
Existing Tracks from Europe
Nurburgring Nordschleife
The world's most challenging and difficult track is 20.8 kilometers
long, and consists of 176 turns. The Nurburgring track is known for
car manufacturers bringing their latest sport cars for testing.
Mastering this track may take some time, but is for the same reasons
quite rewarding. The history of joy and excitement of driving in
racing games is about to be changed.
City Courses
Tokyo R246
This was a popular track included in GT3. With the latest GT4
technology, this track is back with more beauty and more realism.
Seattle
Another popular city track included in the series since GT2. With the
latest GT4 technology, this track is back with more beauty and more
realism. The time setting has changed from sunset to mid-day clear
skies.
New York
This track takes the centre of New York, Midtown Manhattan and builds
a city track around it. With its multiple 90 degree turns this is a
technical track. Players can enjoy a bit of sightseeing as the track
includes Broadway, Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Central Park and more.
Hong Kong
Developed and created with full support from the Hong Kong Govt.
Tourism Department.
Other City Courses will include:
Las Vegas Drag Strip, George V Paris, Opera Paris, Cote D'Azur,
Special Stage Route 5, Citta di Aria
Nature Courses
Grand Canyon
Swiss Alps
Ice Arena
Grand Valley
Trial Mountain
Midfield Raceway
Snow Lake
High Speed Ring
Amalfee Circuit
Motorsports Land
Tahiti Maze
Autumn Ring
**Additional tracks to be seen in GT4 will be announced at a later date.
Photo Mode
GT4 brings another new feature to the series called Photo Mode,
enhancing the watching/observing mode one step further. "Photo Drive"
is included in all of the GT4 courses, allowing players to take photos
of their car on the track. Players can use real photography
techniques, such as zoom, depth of field and motion blur. Special and
exclusive locations for photos will also be available at "Photo
Travel". Players can travel in their favorite car to various locations
around the world and take photos at a wide variety of angles. Photos
can be printed on a compatible colour printer or saved to memory card
to share with your friends.
Photo Travel (15 stages in all)
Gion District, Kyoto Japan
Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto Japan
Sagano, Kyoto Japan
Tsumago, Nagano, Japan
Piazza San Marco, Venice Italy
Realto Bridge, Venice Italy
Shibuya, Tokyo Japan
Tokyo International Forum, Tokyo Japan
Shiga Kogen, Nagano Japan
Brooklyn, New York NY USA
Times Square, New York NY USA
Asian Fish Market
Freemont Street, Las Vegas NV USA
Louisberg Square, Boston MA USA
The Human Aspect
The Gran Turismo series has always injected realism into the cars and
their surrounding environments. Now, GT4 takes the challenge of
conveying the final essential element - people. The driver's human
movements, the recreation of the pit crew, and the movement of the
spectators have all been replicated. This completes the triangle -
cars, people and nature - that the team has always wanted to achieve.
This achievement adds to the overall realism of the cars taking the
Gran Turismo series to new dimensions.
Car Physics Simulation Engine
The car physics simulation engine allows for more reality in the car's
performance at higher standards, making the actual driving experience
easier. The accuracy level is equivalent to sports driving in real
life.
New Generation Driver Assist Functions
In addition to anti-lock brakes, traction control systems and active
stability control, GT4 will also include active steering. With all of
the safety devices combined and controlled at high standards, this
allows for beginners to enjoy the pleasures of driving.
The Latest Modifications
The fun of modifying a favorite car has increased significantly.
Reflecting the latest car tuning trends, Superchargers and NOS
(Nitrogen) will now be available. The range of tires and other factors
allows for more flexibility of the player's car set up. The new car
physics simulation engine is more delicate and responds with more
realism.
Steering Controller "GT FORCE Pro"
The Logitech "GT FORCE Pro" is a 2.5 turn lock to lock steering
controller, developed as a joint project between Logitech and
Polyphony Digital Inc. The force feedback on the steering has been
enhanced, as well as the firmness and stability of the product.
A New Proposal to Racing: "Mission Races"
This is a new concept to the Gran Turismo series, structured in a
mission-clearing-based race event.
The race will not necessarily start from the starting grid. There will
be set conditions for the start of the race for players to challenge.
For example: a player may have to start one second later in second
place, starting one lap behind and having to finish first. These are
settings which are highly likely in the worlds of real racing. Players
experience the drama of racing, and are sure to enjoy the challenge of
clearing each mission.
Introducing a new "High Score" system
The races in the GT series have always had specific race regulations
for player to follow, such as limitation on tyres, maximum power, etc.
In GT4, most of these regulations will be omitted to allow for more
variety of cars to participate in each of the races, as well as their
modification ranges. For example, a player can take a 600 horsepower
car and participate in a race setting for cars in the range of 150
horsepower.
The new "High Score" system will work as follows. Players will earn
high points winning a race at a disadvantage (disadvantage or
advantage is measure by whether a player's car is slower or faster
than opponent cars), and conversely, players at an advantage will earn
less points. With the introduction of this "High Score" system,
players have more freedom in their gaming style. Some may take a very
fast car and win the races easily, whereas some of the more stoic
players will intentionally take the disadvantage and truly test their
driving skills. This system meets the demands of a wide range of
gaming styles and players.
Developer: Polyphony Digital Inc.
Genre: Driving Simulation
Players: 1- 2 players
Peripherals: GT Force®, GT Force Pro®, Network Adaptor, Analogue
Controller (DUALSHOCK 2), Memory Card (8MB) (for PlayStation 2)
