Sony Computer Entertainment of America has announced that beginning December 24, 2006, the racing game Gran Turismo HD Concept for the PlayStation 3 will be available for free download from the online PlayStation Store.
The driving game will feature the Eiger Nordwand driving course and will offer a Time Trial mode which will enable player to unlock new cars. One player unlock the initial ten cars from manufacturers like Ferrari, Infiniti, Lotus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Suzuki, they will be able to unlock another 10 “tuned” cars and a “Drift Trial” mode which will enable players to master “drifting” their vehicles. In Drift Trial mode, players earn drift points based on drift angles, racing lines, and speeds within evaluation zones located on turns in the course. Players will be able to upload their times and view top 10 rankings on for each car and mode on the PlayStation Network, as well as play and save replays online.
And, of course, Gran Turismo HD Concept leverages the PS3’s technology by offering HD resolutions all the way up to 1080p, assuming players have HDMI/HDCP and a 1080p capable display. Lower resolutions are also supported.
“Gran Turismo HD Concept provides PS3 and automotive fans a glimpse into the future of Gran Turismo,” states Kazunori Yamauchi, famed creator of the Gran Turismo franchise. “With the power of the PS3 technology, the world of Gran Turismo is refined by its full HD visual presentation and unique interactive experience, resulting in an even more realistic and true driving simulator.”
All Gran Turismo games are rated E for “Everyone” by the ESRB.
