Gran Turismo 5

Game review by Marc Saltzman, Common Sense Media
Gran Turismo 5 Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 10+

Extraordinarily fun racing sim is deep but unrealistic.

PlayStation 3 2010
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Parents say

age 7+

Based on 7 reviews

Kids say

age 7+

Based on 15 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this game.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Gran Turismo 5 is rated "Everyone" by the ESRB because it is free of graphic violence, profanity, sexuality, and illicit substances. However, moms and dads should be aware that the game is filled with advertising and product placement from prominent brands in the automotive industry. Parents should also know that the game fails to depict high speed car crashes with authenticity -- cars show only minor signs of exterior damage and drivers survive unscathed -- meaning younger players could get the wrong impression about the dangers associated with high speed collisions. Note, too, that this game supports open voice chat between online players. Common Sense Media does not recommend open online play for pre-teens. Parents might want to turn off the option for voice chat by using the parental controls that are part of their console system.

Community Reviews

christian2011
christian2011 Adult
November 26, 2013
age 12+

One of the best high-definition racing games around.

Gran Turismo 5 is undoubtedly the best one out to date, because of it's new high definition graphics, realistic design and settings, and the new array of high octane performance vehicles to choose from. Consumerism is one of the biggest concerns, because all the vehicles come from legit brands that are seen around the world. Also, the concept of the cars receiving damage and sustaining car crashes is NOT like how the cars are in real life, because in Gran Turismo 5, cars only receive minor to moderate damage such as scratches and dents, even in cataclysmic situations, and the drivers come out completely unharmed. From the basic knowledge of myself, everyone, even children, should understand that if someone drove a car in REAL LIFE and sustained that much damage and turbulence - they will die from the injuries and explosions inflicted. So, this game may not be a good choice for the younger crowd because they might get the wrong impression displayed by the game play. If they completely understand both fictional and non-fictional concepts, then they should be fine.

This title has:

Too much violence
Too much consumerism
GDTSP
GDTSP Adult
July 5, 2012
age 2+

Consumerism complaints?

I haven't played it, but I have to comment on this consumerism thing. I can't believe people are getting worked up over billboards with advertising on them inside the game. If you're going to be like that, you may as well not let your children outside.
See all 7 parent reviews

What’s It About?

PlayStation 3 gamers had to sit idly by last year while Xbox 360 gamers gushed about Microsoft's Forza Motorsport 3. Now, PS3-owning driving fans can climb behind the wheel of Sony's near photo-realistic GRAN TURISMO 5, and for the first time in the coveted series, race with or against up to 15 friends in a handful of online modes. While only a few are available at the start of the game, roughly 1000 unlock-able real-world cars are available, all of which can be modified for better performance or aesthetics. Toy with new camera options, including a view from behind the wheel, as your vehicle hugs the asphalt and reacts in real-time to turns, bumps, and slight imperfections in the road. Those who prefer a more arcade experience can turn on driving assists, if preferred.

Is It Any Good?

Gran Turismo 5 was well worth the wait for a number of reasons: tight handling, accurate physics, a huge number of cars, outstanding graphics (including 3D support) and ambitious online support. The game houses more than 20 track locations in total, but variations of those tracks (such as mirror mode) bring the number closer to 70. Fans of this best-selling franchise can also expect mechanical and minor external car damage, night racing, and for the first time in the series, NASCAR, Super GT, and World Rally Championship licenses are in the game. Truly, all the bases are covered here. Kudos to Polyphony Digital for delivering a fun, deep, and stunning racing experience that's well worth the wait.

Online interaction: This game supports open voice chat with other players, opening the door for players to be exposed to coarse language and inappropriate conversations. It also makes possible the sharing of personal information.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how a child's perception of driving might be altered as he or she plays racing video games. If a game downplays the dangers involved in high speed racing, will kids think it is safer than it actually is?

  • Would you prefer racing simulators to be more accurate in their depiction of crashes, even if it meant adding graphic violence?

  • Families can also discuss the dangers associated with online play. How can you tell if you encounter an online predator? What steps should you take?

  • Can playing car race games lead to risky behavior when driving in real life? See our discussion here.

Game Details

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