US Gran Turismo 3 announced
Posted by @ 5:31 PM, EST
SCEA recently announced the Spring 2001 release of Gran Turismo 3 A-spec.
Here’s a bit of the press release:

"We are thrilled to bring the Gran Turismo franchise to the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. "Gran Turismo 3 A-spec truly revolutionizes the racing category, bringing a new dimension in physics, graphics and special effects that blurs the line between game and reality. It will appeal to a much broader audience and will drive the formation of the PlayStation 2 platform."

Gran Turismo 3 A-spec immerses players into the most true-to-life environments ever realized, including special effects like blinding sun glare hitting the windshield, shimmering heat rays rising off the tarmac and real-time reflections on the cars, adding to the overall experience. Improved opponent A.I. (artificial intelligence) further adds to the realism, allowing players to experience a true sense of emotion emanating from the opposing cars. As drivers respond to annoying tailgating, they may pass you on the inside or perform sneering cut-offs. In addition, the power of PlayStation 2 allows for each car's characteristics to be accurately designed and calculated to handle according to the "real life" physics of that particular vehicle, taking into account weight, speed, friction, wind and more.

In Gran Turismo 3 A-spec, weather conditions, including enhanced fogging effects and rain, have been implemented to improve realism and add challenge to the racing experience. An enhanced Rally Mode adds further variety, allowing players to race through gravel tracks, kicking up dirt to impair their opponent's view. Dirt tracks offer a completely different driving experience with varying topography that changes how well each vehicle's traction handles the gravel tracks.