2 stars = Mediocre
Ratings explained

The Gran Turismo series continues with "Gran Turismo 5: Prologue," a release oozing with style and computer graphic splendor, but lacking in the captivating game-play department.

I took GT5 (Sony PS3; $39.99) for a spin and treated myself to the latest in controllers. I tried the game with the new Logitech Driving Force GT (a steering wheel and pedals) and Sony's new DualShock3, complete with 8,000-year-old vibration technology.

"GT5" launches to a smooth and jazzy piano riff, instead of a Linkin Park blast or some other loudness. This grown-man approach to gaming continues throughout, and I soon realized the title is not targeted toward the white-knuckled gaming teen.

While these are not your father's Oldsmobiles, this is your father's video game: It's mature, refined, technical and, I might say, a tad dull.

Yes, the graphics are gorgeous. Yes, the engines growl and purr with precision. And the force feedback on the Logitech controller as I tore through the competition was impressive. But this is an homage to the automobile -- and not a nod to the pure fun that race gaming has delivered before.

As I careened around the curves behind the wheel of a 2004 Honda Integra in an early "Class C" race, the car didn't lean or sway enough, as if the game physics hadn't given it enough heft.

I needed to place in the top three to snag a trophy in each Class C race in order to move on to Class B, and later Class A. Each ensuing class demands better cars, which are purchased using credits earned through high race finishes. But I wanted damage to the vehicle as I plowed into walls and other cars. That wasn't there in the races I played. I wanted more bumper-to-bumper clanging and the gnashing of metal. That was oddly absent. I was spun out frequently by AI opponents tapping me from behind, but it was a benign experience at best.

I sought a bit more adrenaline on the track, so I went online hunting for real opponents. Using my winnings, I purchased a spunky little 2006 Ford Focus and a 2000 Clio Renault Sport. I clicked the "Online" option and was met with several available race options. Other drivers online popped up and we headed for the starting lineup. This improved the gaming experience, because I trust humans to make more mistakes than the game's AI.

The online races were the most fun. There was a steady set of a dozen or so drivers online that raced the same track about 10 times in a row. There's also a feature called "Gran Turismo TV," an in-game online channel that delivered video content to my PS3 via download.

This game is an accurate accomplishment and a detailed driving simulator, but I found myself waiting for the good times to break out -- and they rarely did.

-- Ron Harris, Associated Press </>