In just one year, a great deal can transpire, especially in the realm of live service. Sometimes, a year may seem endless, but upon reflection, several years can fly by in an instant. This is true for Gran Turismo 7, the most recent major release from Polyphony Digital within its popular driving simulation series. Although three years might appear insignificant compared to other games that have continued post-release updates, it’s still thriving, continuing to produce top-notch content, and above all, remaining the uncontested ruler of racing sims.
Initially, it wasn’t a walk in the park to claim that crown, particularly at the outset. Debuting in March 2022, just a week after Elden Ring, it still managed impressive success. Its launch month set a record for the highest grossing in its franchise history and even ranked second in sales charts for that month. The game received widespread critical acclaim, suggesting another potential first-party hit for Sony. However, things took a turn when a patch was released post-launch, increasing the need for grinding and making the microtransactions more noticeable.
Indeed, there were other complications that arose – such as the constant online connectivity required to access most of the content (which proved challenging during a 30-hour server maintenance period), and the absence of an effective Career Mode being major concerns. However, it was the grinding aspect that really frustrated many players. Fortunately, Polyphony Digital plans to rectify progression issues in the upcoming month by enhancing rewards in later World Circuits and Online Races, introducing new Endurance Race events, and offering high-value prizes for the Circuit Experience.
Back in the day, Polyphony promised an array of fresh directions, automobiles, World Circuit events, Sport Time Trials, and many other exciting additions. What came as a surprise was the sheer extent of their commitment. Although there were some tweaks, bug fixes, 64 new songs for Music Replay, and the long-awaited adjustments to rewards, it wasn’t until June 2022 that the main content started rolling out. Three cars joined the game – the Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special ’98, the Suzuki Vision Gran Turismo (Gr.3 Version), and the iconic 1932 Ford Roadster. At first glance, these additions might have seemed insignificant, especially following the controversies, but they sparked a rhythm of nearly monthly updates that continues to this day.
In July 2022, three additional vehicles joined our collection: The Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette Group 5 ’84, Maserati A6GCS/53 Spyder ’54, and Porsche 918 Spyder ’13. These are not just any vehicles; each one appeals to a different kind of auto enthusiast. The August 2022 update further enriched our collection with the McLaren MP4/4 ’88 for Formula One fanatics, the Pontiac GTO ’69 for muscle car aficionados, the Porsche Cayman GT4 ’16, and the luxurious De Tomaso Mangusta (also known as Christian Dior).
The update introduced a novelty: for the first time, fresh designs were incorporated into pre-existing tracks, commencing with Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Players now have the option to select among Rallycross, No Chicane (replacing the final corner with a faster right turn), and the National Layout. Moreover, in September 2022, additional new vehicles were unveiled such as the Volkswagen ID.R ’19 prototype, Nissan Silvia K’s Type S (S14) from 1994, and the stylish Porsche Vision Gran Turismo Spyder.
In October, we saw a steady increase in the number of free cars being offered, with four new models joining our roster: the Maserati Merak SS ’80, Mazda Roadster NR-A (ND) ’22, Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R (KPGC110) ’73, and GT-R NISMO GT3 ’18. In contrast, November saw fewer new car introductions, just three: the BMW M2 Competition ’18, Ford Sierra RS 500 Cosworth ’87, and Nissan Silvia K’s Aero (S14) ’96. However, we also welcomed a new addition to our race circuits – Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, renowned for hosting “Petit Le Mans.
Additionally, it signified the long-awaited introduction of a highly demanded feature since its debut – the functionality to sell automobiles. Polygon Digital Productions concluded the year in an impressive manner by adding five more vehicles to their roster: Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo, Alfa Romeo Giulia GTAm ’20, Bugatti Chiron ’16, Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray ’20 and Toyota Celica GT-FOUR Rally Car (ST205) ’95.
2023 signified the one-year milestone for the game’s release. Yet, an upgrade offering PlayStation VR2 compatibility became accessible in February, encompassing all modes, circuits, and split-screen, along with a VR Showroom to closely inspect all vehicles. Additionally, it brought about GT Sophy, initially introduced in Gran Turismo Sport, yet not accessible for the broader community. This restriction was lifted with GT7’s temporary event, “Race Together,” enabling players to compete against the racing AI on four tracks. However, this wouldn’t be the last time we interacted with Sophy.
In February 2023, an update was made that incorporated the traditional Grand Valley course, specifically its Highway 1 design, along with five new vehicles: the Honda RA272 ’65, the Italdesign Exeneo Vision Gran Turismo Street and Off-Road Mode, Citroen’s DS 21 Pallas ’70, and the Porsche 911 Carrera RS (901) ’73. Although Polyphony didn’t issue an update on the exact anniversary of the launch, their March 2023 update introduced five new vehicles, 120 FPS support for PS5, and most excitingly, two new Nurburgring layouts. April saw four more cars added, with highlights being the Dallara SF23 Toyota ’23 and Honda ’23, and the introduction of the new Super Formula race type in World Circuits.
In May, three additional vehicles rolled in, among them the iconic Nissan GT-R NISMO (R32) from ’90, along with an eagerly awaited enhancement – Engine Swapping capability. Players reaching Collector Level 50 on GT Auto can now swap out engines for select vehicles. Additionally, a fresh category, “Ultimate,” has been added to the Tuning Shop, offering even rarer components to broaden the possibilities of customization and tuning.
The June update was milder compared to others, yet still impactful. It introduced three new cars – the Aston Martin Valkyrie ’21, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III GSR ’95, and Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi ’04. Furthermore, four events were added across various circuits such as Fisherman’s Ranch and Autopolis. Music Rally welcomed six new events to its collection. Additionally, you can now interact with specific characters in GT Cafe regarding certain vehicles, explore a new “Fanatec” section in the Museum, and enjoy six new Engine Swaps.
In July, Polyphony Digital shifted their attention towards competitive events like the Manufacturers Cup, the Porsche Esports Challenge USA, and the Toyota GAZOO Racing GT Cup, thus there were no updates. The pace picked up again in August with the debut of the Gran Turismo movie. Although it didn’t receive rave reviews from critics, it provided players an opportunity to obtain the GT-R Nismo GT3 ’18 and its unique film livery until late September within the game. Furthermore, four additional vehicles were added, including the first ambulance (the Toyota Ambulance Himedic ’21) and the Toyota GR Corolla MORIZO Edition ’22, which could be acquired without spending any credits if you participated in any round of the TGR Cup.
In September, we added only three new vehicles to our collection, but October brought just a fix for an issue in Daily Races and Championship races. This was not due to lack of activity, but rather preparation for a significant event in November – the arrival of Spec 2! With it came an impressive lineup of seven new cars, including the Dodge Charger R/T 426 Hemi ’68, Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II ’91, and Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ’22.
Lake Louise presented a fresh racetrack setup with three distinct courses, all featuring slippery tracks that necessitated snow tires. Five standard races and two expert races were added to the schedule. For easy navigation, an Event Directory was provided to display ongoing events based on your preferences, while the Dashboard offered a comprehensive view of your progression from the main menu.
Each week offers fresh activities to conquer, along with unique bonuses, as The Weekly Challenge makes its appearance once again, this time permanently. You now have the chance to race against it in Quick Race, which used to be called Arcade Race. Additionally, you can tackle 50 brand-new expert challenges for the latest Master License. Four-player split-screen action is also available on the PS5 platform, and there’s even more exciting content to explore!
Due to the large update, it wasn’t surprising that December was quieter. Polyphony did conduct some login events offering daily rewards and a special Car Ticket as a thank you for fans’ continued support of Gran Turismo Sport, with its online services set to close in January 2024.
Indeed, the previous month brought back regular updates, featuring three fresh automobiles: the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Vision Gran Turismo Concept, BVLGARI Aluminum Vision Gran Turismo, and Suzuki Jimny XC ’18, an off-road vehicle. Additionally, a new event known as the Jimny Cup was introduced, and two new races for the Vision Gran Turismo Trophy were accessible on the Tokyo Expressway and Autodromo Nazionale Monza circuits.
From June 2024 up until now (a period without any prior updates), Polyphony Digital has introduced 14 new vehicles into the game, among them being the ŠKODA Vision Gran Turismo, a vehicle exclusive to Gran Turismo, along with new World Circuit events. Additionally, it’s important to note that GT Cafe, which previously functioned as a sort of Career mode by allowing players to collect vehicles, complete tasks, and gain knowledge about each manufacturer, has also undergone updates.
Above the main platform (base 39), there were additional “Bonus Books” marked as “endings,” which smoothly transitioned into World Circuit Events. These books granted vehicles or lottery tickets for assorted automobiles and components, along with Credits. Additionally, you had the opportunity to engage in 40 extra books that became accessible once a certain Collector Level was achieved, offering more vehicles and even more lottery tickets. Furthermore, this update introduced numerous new spots within Scapes for players to capture their cars as souvenirs.
In July 2024, six fresh automobiles were unveiled, such as the Ferrari 430 Scuderia ’07, Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 ’08, and Subaru Impreza Rally Car ’98, along with the iconic Eiger Nordwand track. A significant upgrade was applied to the physics model as well, enhancing tire response for a more authentic driving experience. This update made weight shifting in corners, tire heating, and tire wear feel more realistic.
In October, I got my hands on the biggest content update yet, bringing three fresh rides, five World Circuit Events, two extra tracks for GT Sophy, ten new Engine Swaps, and plenty of engaging character dialogues. But wait until you see what November had in store! It was all about PS5 Pro support, which cranked up the graphics with ray-traced reflections, 8K resolution, enhanced VR Mode quality, and a brand-new mode utilizing PSSR for a smooth high frame rate and sharper image quality. To top it off, five more cars, three new World Circuit events, additional Engine Swaps, snazzy new wheels for three brands, and extra brand decals were also dropped in.
To date, the first half of 2025 has been marked by an impressive expansion for Gran Turismo 7. So far, it has welcomed 14 new cars, introduced additional World Circuits, GT Cafe Menus, Scapes, and tracks to challenge GT Sophy. It’s been quite a ride, and while there’s always room for improvement, Gran Turismo 7 is significantly different from its initial release in terms of content and gameplay, and it can be argued that it’s the best contemporary racing sim on the market. Despite the weighty legacy it carries, we’re eager to see where Polyphony Digital will steer
This article represents the personal opinions of its author; they don’t necessarily reflect the beliefs or stance of GamingBolt as a company.
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2025-06-10 19:13