Racing (3)

Explore the gameplay and content of Gran Turismo 2, including Arcade and Simulation modes, nearly 620 cars, 27 tracks, and new rally racing features. Learn about its development and reception.

Gran Turismo 2 is a racing game for the original PlayStation, developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Computer Entertainment in 1999. It features two modes: Arcade, where players can freely choose courses and vehicles, and Simulation, which requires earning driver's licenses, purchasing vehicles, and winning trophies to unlock new courses. The game boasts nearly 620 cars and 27 race tracks. New additions include rally racing on dirt tracks, support for DualShock vibration and the NeGcon controller, and compatibility with many third-party steering wheel controllers. The game also features featured circuits and race cars.

Development of Gran Turismo 2 aimed to improve upon the original, with high expectations from Sony Computer Entertainment America. Upon release, some errors and glitches were found, and SCEA offered replacements for affected games. A notable partnership with Seiko Corporation provided timing expertise and featured their logo in the game. Gran Turismo 2 received critical acclaim, though early versions had glitches that could corrupt saved games. Sony acknowledged the rushed release for the holiday season and arranged exchanges for updated versions. The game's music includes "My Favorite Game" by The Cardigans and "Moon Over the Castle" for the NTSC-J version. Trivia highlights include its two-disc format, lack of development delays, unique license test tracks like Motor Sports Land and Complex String, and the inclusion of an International C license and Rally license.