US and Japan get GT HD Concept

Gran Turismo HD Concept is now out in North America and Japan, the 'demo' version of planned-but-canned full GT HD PS3 game releasing for download - for free - over Christmas.

News of GT HD's demise and Polyphony Digital's decision to instead release Concept broke in December last year. PS3 owners, for the download, get GT racing supporting 1080p, 10 cars, unlocks - further tuned versions of the vehicles and game mode Drift Trial - and new course Eiger Nordwand. Unlocks are accessed by performing very excellently in Time Trial mode on Eiger Nordwand.

Drift Trial driving mode allows players to "master the art of drifting and achieve ultimate control of their car", Sony's explained.

"Gran Turismo HD Concept provides PS3 and automotive fans a glimpse into the future of Gran Turismo," said Kazunori Yamauchi, creator of Gran Turismo. "With the power of the PS3 technology, the world of Gran Turismo is refined by its full HD visual presentation and unique interactive experience, resulting in an even more realistic and true driving simulator."

Full sequel Gran Turismo 5 is not expected to hit until 2008, but this Concept demo may not be the last PS3 hears of Gran Turismo before 5's out. Yamaouchi has explained previously that it's possible additional Concept demos will be released further down the line.

via cvg