Out of 100, I give the game a
95. I'll break down the 10 category scores that explain my reasoning, albeit brief.
Physics: 10/10 - Outstanding. Having a project lead who doubles as a semi-professional race car driver makes all the difference in the world. The low speed physics in GT5 need some work though. Not having an auto steer forced down my throat is a bonus.
Graphics: 10/10 - The Premium models are unmatched on the console, and blur the line between reality and virtual in GT5's Photo Mode. The Shadows and Standard models are the only thing that keeps this game from being beyond perfect from a visual standpoint.
Sound: 9/10 - Easily the best sounding Gran Turismo game to date. I have absolutely fallen in love when you change your car in the garage. The sound coming from an impact is one of the best I have heard (agree with ISR). The only complaint here is the louder then normal transmission whine, and some of the cars not sounding as good as the others.
Control: 10/10 - I am a 75% DS3 user, and once again PD doesn't disappoint. I can completely customize my controller to my liking, and that, in my book is the most important feature anywhere. I have a Logitech Racing wheel, and it worked fine, albeit not fully supported. It's obvious PD has moved on to the T500.
Customization: 7/10 - The Racing Mod option makes it's return to Gran Turismo, and it's awesome and limited all in the same sentence. What hurts this area of the game is the fact that most Standard models can't be customized at all. All PD needed to do was give the player the option for wheels, and I would have been happy since I am not that into a livery system (never used it but once or so on Forza).
The Car List: 10/10 - Over 1000 cars. That's a variety that has to be unmatched anywhere else. Sure, there are a few cars missing that I would like to have, but it doesn't detract from the mass selection of vehicle types. If you are lucky, you might find your car in there!
Variety: 10/10 - If it's in motor sports, you can drive it, and that is what makes GT5 special to me. Whether it's a Kart, or an X1 2010, you'll find something to do with the cars. The license tests return and are a true test of your driving skills, and I am strangely addicted to B-Spec now. The track editor is a nice addition as well.
Online: 9/10 - After the patch, I really have nothing to complain about other then the players themselves that I have run into. Most are cool, but as is the case with every racing game online, it all comes down to who you play with. The in game message board and gifting system is a huge plus.
Longevity: 10/10 - Between A-Spec and B-Spec, Special events, License tests, collecting 1000 cars and the Track editor, I have plenty to do. The total events from GT4-GT5 is down, but then again, GT5 is the first in the series to offer online and race updates every two weeks or so. It'll be interesting to see GT5 in another 6 months from now.
Fun Factor: 10/10 - Bottom line, this game is blast. So much to do and experience, and if you love cars, this is your game. I have yet to get bored (A-Spec level 27 and B-Spec level 12).
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90 for its good points 40 for its bad points.
