Gran Turismo 5

There's no doubt the GT series redefined the car racing genre. GT5 certainly ups the ante compared to its excellent predecessors. Although admittedly, the objective of GT mode is pretty much the same (win races to unlock new vehicles and so on), the inclusion of just over 1000 cars will in no doubt please the most devoted fans.

What is disappointing is the lack of "cockpit" views in "standard" vehicles and their 'less attention to detail' graphics wise - look closely and you can see where the game-makers have cut corners. The newly introduced damage model makes little difference to a vehicle's handling (you would expect some differences); sounding the horn and flashing the headlights seems pointless, and the AI leaves a lot to be desired. This is what lets the game down.

Nevertheless, the plus points of GT5 - namely the astute attention to detail regarding the "premium" vehicles and their interiors and the welcome return of old track favourites - outweigh the negative aspects of the game, and there is no doubt that GT5 will be adored by the masses all over the world; just like its predecessors! But then again, if gamers find this new GT game a little too complex for their liking (as it can be frustrating at times), there is always the previous editions to enjoy.