The question on many racing enthusiasts’ minds is, “When will Gt8 be released?” While fans are eager for the next iteration of the Gran Turismo series, it’s crucial to consider the perspectives of both players and developers like Sony and Polyphony Digital (PD). From a player’s standpoint, new content is always exciting. However, for Sony and PD, the decision to create a completely new title is a complex financial and strategic one.
Developing a brand new Gran Turismo entry is a significant investment. Production costs, especially in today’s market, have skyrocketed. Marketing expenses also play a crucial role. Therefore, the question arises: why would Sony invest heavily in a new game when the current installment, GT7, is still performing well? The fact that GT7 hasn’t been added to PlayStation Plus Extra suggests it continues to generate substantial profit. This contrasts with the eras of PS1 and PS2, where releasing multiple GT titles within a console generation was more financially viable and technically necessary due to the limitations of game updates at the time.
In the past, the gaming landscape was different. On consoles like the PS1 and PS2, online game updates were not the norm. Releasing new versions was a primary way to offer upgrades and fresh content. Furthermore, game development costs were considerably lower. The PS3 era saw the beginnings of digital updates, and GT6, released shortly before the PS4, arguably arrived at an awkward time in the console cycle.
Looking ahead, the release of GT8 seems distant. Considering the current trend of supporting a single title for an extended period, it’s plausible that we might not see GT8 for at least five years after GT7’s release, potentially even longer. Many believe the focus should be on continually improving GT7, rather than rushing out a GT8 that might feel like an incremental update, or a “GT7.5”. A more strategic approach would be to wait for more substantial advancements, perhaps aligning GT8 with the capabilities of the PlayStation 6, ensuring a truly next-generation experience. This long-term support model for GT7 allows for continuous improvement and content updates, potentially satisfying players without the immediate need for a full sequel.
