Gran Turismo HD Concept Details Revealed

Well, it looks like Japan, and only Japan, will be getting the ultimate Christmas gift this year. As I reported earlier, Polyphony Digital has decided to forgo Gran Turismo HD (a sort of Gran Turismo 4.5, in 1080p) in favor a a genuine sequel.

The big news was that they were going to put Gran Turismo HD Concept (the work they gad done on HD) in the PS3 store as a free download on Christmas eve. Unfortunately, it looks as though the rumors are true, and that this will be a Japan-only exclusive (to start).

So what exactly are Japanese gamers getting in Gran Turismo HD Concept? The game will include only one track: the all-new Eiger Nordwand, but it will be able to be run normal and in reverse. Additionally, the following cars will be included:

• Suzuki Cappuccino '95
• Mazda Eunos Roadster '89
• Honda Integra Type R'04
• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV GSR'96
• Infinity G35 Coupe
• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX GSR'05
• Lotus Elise 111R'04
• Nissan Sky Liner GT-R V Spec II '94
• Toyota Celica GT-FOUR Rally Car '95
• Ferrari 599'06

Not too shabby for a free downloadable game. I think in hindsight, Sony should have bundled it with the PS3, similar to how Nintendo bundled Wii Sports. Now, let's all hope for a Christmas miracle, that GTHD Concept will show up in the North American PS3 store as well.

[Source: Famitsu via IGN]