Formats: PlayStation 3, PSP

Gran Turismo 5 is definitely a must buy for Christmas for all racing fans – it is the most realistic racing game out at the moment. It expands on the Prologue version and is the first in the main numbered series featured on PlayStation 3.

Gran Tursimo is a game that tests your driving skills with super challenges. The Gran Turismo 5 races have realistic driving which is certainty a big improvement on Gran Turismo 4 where the graphics and controls were a bit of a let down.

The game play is outstanding, there are almost 2,000 cars in the game and every single one of them has great detail on them. There are more than 20 courses and 60 different layouts so you won’t get bored of the tracks anytime soon. The only downside about the game is the poor effects when you crash into a wall.

Night racing returns, and the game includes weather effects such as snow and rain, but only on certain circuits. Windscreen wipers can be seen during weather effects. Go-karting makes its first appearance in the series. New visual effects include dynamic skidmarks, dust and grass being kicked up and affected by other elements and ability for drivers to flash headlights.

The multiplayer is amazing, with up to 16 player capability. They have a number of different games you can play with your friends in an open match or a private one. Either way a great game to buy for anybody who is crazy about racing games, you will not be disappointed.

Unfortunately at present it is only available for Playstation 3 and PSP.

by Paul Evans & Liam Sellick