GT4 Still Delayed, Still Pretty

Sort-of-new screenshots and news inside.

The recent delay of Gran Turismo 4 for PlayStation 2 came as little surprise to those who have followed the progress of the much-anticipated title. With the game now slipping into 2005 in most territories, Sony has released a new batch of screenshots showing off some of the new features present in the game.

While this will do little to placate racing fans already dismayed by the recent last-minute axing of Gran Turismo 4's online components, the screenshots do show off several of the new modes to be included in the final product.

In addition to the regular driving portions of the game, Gran Turismo 4 also includes various less-taxing gameplay modes that allow for a better appreciation of the aesthetics of the cars themselves.

In Director mode, or B-Spec, gamers follow races driven by computer-controlled drivers and decide on the best presentation of the on-screen action. Players have minimal interaction with the actual running of the race and instead act as a broadcast director, trying to make the race look as exciting as possible.

Two photo modes are also included, which make use of a virtual high-spec digital camera for taking photos of the game's bountiful selection of cars in exotic locales. These photos can be saved to the memory card or even be printed out for posterity.

Also shown off in the new screenshots is the series' new-found attention to the human element. From drivers to pit-crews, people are more a part of the Gran Turismo series than ever before.

The final game is scheduled for release on PlayStation 2 during early 2005; and a portable version of Gran Turismo 4 is being prepared for Sony's PSP as well.

Frankly, if you missed our media blowout of GT4 from a couple of months back, then you need to go check it out.

Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games