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Companies & Studios

Polyphony Digital

The real driving simulator

Polyphony Digital created Gran Turismo and established simulation racing as a console genre, becoming one of Sony's most technically accomplished first-party studios.

PlayStationplaystation-2playstation-3playstation-4 developerracingsimulation 1998–present

Overview

Kazunori Yamauchi’s obsession made digital. Polyphony Digital exists to make Gran Turismo—a singular focus that produced the most detailed driving simulation on consoles. Each entry pushed PlayStation hardware to its limits. Development cycles stretched into years. The result: a franchise synonymous with automotive authenticity.

Fast facts

  • Founded: 1998 (from Sony internal team).
  • Founder: Kazunori Yamauchi.
  • Location: Tokyo, Japan.
  • Parent: Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Gran Turismo series

TitleYearPlatform
Gran Turismo1997PS1
Gran Turismo 21999PS1
Gran Turismo 32001PS2
Gran Turismo 42004PS2
Gran Turismo 52010PS3
Gran Turismo 72022PS5

Development philosophy

PrincipleImplementation
AuthenticityLaser-scanned tracks
Car cultureManufacturer relationships
PhysicsSimulation modelling
PerfectionismExtended development

Technical achievements

FeatureInnovation
Car count1000+ vehicles
Track accuracyReal-world precision
WeatherDynamic systems
Photo modeCar photography

See also