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Bill B.

Bill B.

Joined on 02/04/09

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Product Reviews
product reviews
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Most Favorable Review

Gran Turismo 5 XL

Gran Turismo 5 XL Edition PlayStation 3
Gran Turismo 5 XL Edition PlayStation 3

Pros: Okay, I normally don't do reviews but this game is the most fun I've ever had in a driving sim or game in a long time. For starters, this is a collective review as I believe these accessories are required to fully enjoy what this game has to offer: Logitech G27 wheel (or any force feedback wheel) and a 3D HDTV. Now I realize this may not be Forza 4, may not have the amount of cars or the damage model and physics, or AI up to par with that game, etc. I haven't played it either. In fact, I haven't been much into racing for a while. Last I played was Forza 2 on X360, and I loved it. But I will say with GT5 in 3D and Logitech G27 force feedback wheel, I've never played a racing sim that is so immersive. You just aren't going to get these effects with Forza. The key here is 3D and force feedback wheel. My setup is an LG 65" 3DTV, and when I first played in 2D, I was thinking.. eh, this is okay. So next I selected 3D and thought hey... the perspective is pretty good. But then, I found the 3D depth settings and convergence settings and cranked em all the way up. That's when the WOW factor kicked in... virtual sim racing at its finest. Feels like a high profile simulation machine, or like you're at an expensive virtual arcade station. Cars really look large in front of you, and the distance in the horizon is really noticeable. May be too much depth for front menu screens, but you can adjust to your liking. To discuss the Logitech G27 racing wheel, it's got dual motors for strong feedback, a clutch, gas and brake (w/ stiffer brake feel) and 6 speed shifter. You get powerful feedback from the wheel, and it definitely adds to the realism. You must also use the clutch in this game to properly shift gears which is great. Full 900 degree rotation also adds to the experience as you will use it here. You also won't get these features on any X360 wheel. The other thing to mention here is that night driving and weather effects are unique to this game. Playing in rain, dirt and snow is an added WOW in this game. The feedback you get on the steering wheel is really different in each environment. On dirt, you feel the bumps and really feel the wheel fight with you. You're counter steering constantly as your tires are sliding on the track. Similar with snow, but has it's own feel also. On the negative side... good lordy, the install time. Atrocious! Takes likes a few hrs with all the updates. Once it's done, all is grand. It also probably doesn't have the library of cars I know I'd be able to get in Forza, but I'm okay with it. Aside from this, it's been pure enjoyment. In conclusion, it's a racing title that is a must for any PS3 owner and car lover. Best car game to date! 3D is the future, I don't think I could possibly enjoy a 2D racing title ever again.

Cons: Long install, a few hours!

Overall Review: Best Racer Available