Starting GT7 as a rookie with Spec III

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TL,DR: recap of changes noticed starting GT7 with SPEC III compared to early days.

Hi everyone, I just stepped into GT7 as a total new user, after having played GT1 and GT2 so many years ago, with fond memories.

I loved so much the entire environment and atmosphere in Gran Turismo and seeing how better it has become, especially after Spec III launch, sold me. I decided to jump in when PS5 went on sale with Black Friday deals. GT7 too was at half price in the 25th edition, a welcome deal after all.
So here we are, trying to find the line and a spot in this new racing challenge!

I think it could be interesting to report how it is like starting the game now as a newcomer, assuming there are a few differences in progression compared to
early days starters.

Firstly, downloading the game brings already the latest updated version (1.66). After a short 14gb package installer, the game welcomes you with the beloved/hatred Music Rallies. At first I was like: yeah! Funny, let’s drive!

Then I tried the first one and I agree, it’s a bit crappy . Moreover, the game do not allow you to go back to a main page while downloading the rest of the game… a bit annoying.

Nevermind, a few hours later I could start the game. Visuals are stunning: from the new Spec III intro movie, to the homescreen with Christmas lights and songs, very heartwarming. The special 100M copies - 25th edition bundle was pretty convenient as it comes with 3.5M credits and a country specific Toyota Yaris GR, with a very nice livery.

First café and first impressions:

I decided to start the game the regular way acquiring a Mazda Demio to race the first café menu, saving credits later in the game.

However, as an Italian guy, I could not hesitate buying this from Andi, the used car dealer guy: 🐼.

I also experienced a few races just to understand better how to drive the Panda (slow but funny) and the GR Yaris (great pace and handling).

More to come!

 

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Driving License B

Although the driving missions that are requested to obtain the license are not changed from the beginning, I found very useful the data logger feature, especially to get gold in some tricky missions. In fact it is possible to compare your lap with the best one performed by the AI.

While on the way to golding everything, at least I have a brand new Clio.

 

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The journey is keep going!
Up to Café 12 I did not notice particular changes due to Spec III, apart from Power Pack being available.

I’m glad that new cars from updates are featured in race icons as well as in the grids whit random selection by the software (for instance this FF Challenge).

I am very pleased by how the game is conceived and how good it is, both for the quality of graphics and of gameplay. Actually I think it provides lots of gorgeous content in terms of races and tracks, and it is even challenging when playing in medium/hard mode.
In addition, the livery editor works very well and helps in feeling more attached to your car. You can modify its style the same you change its mechanics/tuning, becoming a sort of tailored piece.
Two cars that I’m really enjoying that deserved a special livery: Toyota Corolla Levin ‘83 and Renault Clio ‘16!

A question to people more experienced.
I got a brand invite (from Lamborghini) without any specific warning apart being highlighted in the brand central next to the brand logo (see attached image).
I don’t understand why this happened, since I supposed it was only possible to get them through the roulette system. Is this a new undocumented change from last update 1.66?