Tourist Trophy

"GT4-Minus two wheels with a side of asphalt burn"

Well, I honestly had a hard time knowing what to think about this game when it was first announced; trying to picture Gran Turismo with motorbikes seemed like a long shot. However when I actually started playing the game I was rather impressed. The graphics seem right on par with GT4, and the opening movie was impressive. The rider's eye view is a blast, even going so far as to represent the unbalancing forces of wind resistance. The sense of speed seems to be grater that that of Polyphony's previous games, but maybe that is just me. The classic license tests are now an essential learning tool; unless you really know what you are doing on a motorcycle they are a must. The feel of taking corners at full bank is an exhilarating and sometimes unnerving experience, and the (countless for me) times your body and bike go skidding across the tarmac in opposite directions make me wince. Sondwise I find it to be satisfactory, but the music could use some work. Overall I find Tourist Trophy to be an excellent first foray into the motorbike scene for Polyohony Digital.

Graphics-9/10

The tracks are every bit as well rendered as they are in GT4, considering that both games share courses. The motorbikes themselves are accurately rendered, and the rider's eye view is something I just love, accurately representing the look of you machine, down to cables and gauges. A bit of jaggyness detracts some from this experience, but not much

Sound/Music-7/10

These machines sound great, as does the wind rushing around you when traveling at high speeds. These elements mesh together well and really bring you into the race. The only complaint I have in this department is that the music does not seem to enhance the race for me, I find that it is just there. Better music tracks would have helped this game.

Control-8/10

The controls are as you might expect from the people at Polyphony, however there are quite alot of them. Being able to play on manual mode and effectively tuck, and utilize front and rear brakes takes a whole lot of getting used to, but once you do it is well worth the effort.

Difficulty-10/10

Being "fast" in this game is a far cry form Gran Turismo, and quite often seems frustrating to no degree. Even if you know each and every track like the back of your hand, the difference between a car and a bike is startling. Even on track that you thought you were the master of, this game forces you to learn how to tackle them all over again.

Overall-8/10

The only things keeping me from scoring this game higher is the somewhat boring soundtrack and the steep learning curve that some might experience. This is not a game for the impatient. However if motorbikes are your thing, and you loved Gran Turismo, this purchase is a no-brainer. Otherwise I would rent it first to try it out.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 04/13/06