Common Sense Media Review
By Marc Saltzman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Extraordinarily fun racing sim is deep but unrealistic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
Gran Turismo 5
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 14 kid reviews
Kids say this game is enjoyable for all ages, with light vehicle damage and no extreme violence or inappropriate content, making it suitable for younger players. Players appreciate the superb graphics, addictive gameplay, and the option for split-screen multiplayer, although some noted minor issues like consumerism and the initial download requirement.
- fun for all ages
- superb graphics
- addictive gameplay
- light vehicle damage
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
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
- Platform : PlayStation 3
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Available online
- Publisher : Sony Computer Entertainment
- Release date : November 24, 2010
- Genre : Racing
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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