First impressions of Gameloft’s new “serious” racer.

I got this for Laguna Seca, which thankfully is unlocked for quick racing from the start. (In fact, there are a good amount of cars and tracks unlocked in that mode at the beginning. I’m not sure if it’s all of them, but it’s a good selection.) I need Laguna Seca with me at all times, so I’ve been waiting for this game with baited breath.

First off, it’s a bit of a mess technically. It’s all a little “bitty” and sometimes hard to read at distance, not helped by some amazing (in a bad way) pop up. Opponents often seem to be floating above the track a bit. The framerate ducks and dives like a featherweight boxer, too. And either Laguna Seca is hillier in this version than in other games, or there’s some oddness with the view point, because you can definitely see less of the track ahead of you. (Possibly done on purpose to minimise the pop up?)

GT Racing: Motor Academy

Yes, it has replays. I assume from the icon you can upload them to YouTube.

There’s all sorts of settings and driving aids. I turned stability management down to half and braking assist off entirely, stuck with the tilt controls and found a surprisingly good driving model. It’s not as simulation-based as I expected, but it’s no Ridge Racer and it’s really rather exciting and satisfying.

I didn’t get a good look at any opponent AI that may or may not exist, but there doesn’t seem to be any damage model at all.

After a few races of Laguna Seca in a couple of different cars I went into Career mode. If the game wasn’t an obvious rip-off of Gran Turismo before, it certainly is here.

GT Racing: Motor Academy

I've rarely seen anything more blatant.

You have to pass tests to get your licence, then buy a car, all that malarky. I’ve only got by C licence and had a look at the available cars so far.

Based on half an hour or so, then, this is a horrible rip-off, fairly ugly and a technical mess, but seems to be saved by the amount of licensed content and a genuinely decent driving model. It’s definitely more than good enough for what I want – which, to remind you, is Laguna Seca in my pocket – but playing it when I’ve actually got my PSP with me would be idiocy.