Ever since its debut last year for PlayStation 3, Gran Turismo 5 has been enthralling race fans. However, we’ve heard for months now that the series was going to get some sort of expansion through downloadable content, though Sony has remained mum on said rumors. Now, thanks to the series creator, CEO and racing mastermind Kazunori Hamayuchi, those big changes look to finally be coming this October. But what are they? And are they enough to keep up with Microsoft’s upcoming Forza Motorsport 4?
Kazunori-san hinted at these big changes through his Twitter feed, when he posted the following: “GT fans, thanks for waiting… The GT5 Spec 2.0 update is coming the 3rd week of October, with DLC following a week later.”
That’s really all he would say, but Spec 2.0 sounds like a big leap forward for the series. It’s just a shame he didn’t speculate further, to give players an idea of what to expect from this new upload. But we have a few guesses, so see what you think…
Expanded Tracks From Around the World: If there’s one thing that Gran Turismo 5 is known for, it’s for its world famous tracks, whisking you away to Rome, Germany and other memorable places to prove your racing mettle. Spec 2.0 could easily open this up with a variety of new raceways, including possible Daytona circuit race locations (since that mode is in the game) and a few smaller venues to make us really feel like we’re traveling in style. We shall see.
More Cars: This is practically a given. Gran Turismo 5 has no shortage of cars, but nothing beats having a few more around to park in your garage and take on the open road. Over the past few months, Sony and Polyphony Digital (the game’s developer) could have easily signed deals with a number of manufacturers, allowing their rides to be inputted virtually into Gran Turismo 5’s world. Some fantasy cars wouldn’t be out of the question either. And we don’t mean flying cars, but cars we always wanted to race, like the rarities that were previously included in the game.
More Modes: Gran Turismo 5 has plenty of modes to choose from, including the ability to direct races and coach on the sidelines and, of course, take on others online. Spec 2.0 could easily pave the way for a new racing mode, such as a virtual GT Academy or any other given challenges to keep your foot on the floor. It’d be great to see what other racing modes could be included. How about a drag contest? (And no, we don’t mean guys dressing like girls, we mean drag RACING.)
Better Online Integration: There’s nothing wrong with how GT 5’s online play is now, but better integration could pave the way for improved features, better performance…it could really open up a whole new racing world. Just a thought.
The Kazunori Challenge: Hamayuchi is always talking about he’s so privvy at racing, and how it pumps in his blood. So why not include a mode where you can challenge him directly and see what he’s made of? Hell, we’d take on a Polyphony Challenge if it was handed to us. We’re ready! (We think.)
Any number of changes could come to Spec 2.0, and Sony and Polyphony Digital will need them all, as Forza Motorsport 4 will come roaring out of the gates on October 11th. Hopefully we’ll have some notes soon as to what to expect from this mode. For now, we kind of like our suggestions. What do you think?
