"Gran Turismo 5 Prologue"

Some call it an extended demo, while others call it a taste of things to come. As the title suggests "Gran Turismo 5 Prologue" is preview of the full game to be released at a later date. This game has most of the bells and whistles of the previous titles which to date have sold 48 million units worldwide. One key feature missing is that of the license tests which are absent from this one.

GT5 Prologue looks great. There is no other way to put it. The graphical presentation is jaw dropping. The cars are virtually mirrored in every aspect from wheels to the interior. A newly added race view gives you a different perspective on the race track. A new in-car driver's-eye view is exactly that.

It's the perspective as if you were the one behind the wheel, so you get a decent shot of all the interior features of the car. It provides a unique perspective for racers and featuring real-time gauges and human animations that accurately represent the true performance and handling of each vehicle.

Just like the previous Gran Turismo series games you can earn credits to purchase better cars. In this iteration of the series more than 60 cars are featured, but still smaller than the hundreds from previous titles. Of course your typical Benz's, Nissans' and Hondas are present. Sadly, Lamborghini, and Porsche are not featured.

However, making their Turismo debut is Ferrari featuring a number of models including the classic and my personal favorite the F40. Driving any of these cars is virtually a simulation of what it would be in real life. The controls are extremely accurate and precise to deliver the sense of speed in this racing simulation.

One disappointing fact of Prologue is the limited number of racing tracks. You only get to race on about a half dozen race tracks. The Daytona Speedway is a great track to test your top speed. The AI has been tweaked adding to the competitiveness of the race. You can race this title online. Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will support up to 16 players racing head-to-head online, complete with community events and leaderboard.

Prologue is available to download using the PlayStation Network or on a disc format available stores at your local retailer. If you've got a drive for exotic cars, then you'll love Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. Polyphony Digital has created the gold standard for racing simulations.

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is rated "E" for Everyone (content suitable for ages 6 or older) and is available exclusively on the PlayStation 3 game console.