Gran Turismo has two modes of play: Arcade Mode and Simulation Mode.
Arcade Mode has three different difficulty settings, and is designed to let ANYONE jump in and play. Other options inside change the difficulty, such as Automatic or Manual Transmission, and the Standard or Drift options which change the physics engine and the handling of the cars. This is an excellent starting point to get used to the game.
Simulation Mode offers much, much more game depth. You get to buy your own (cheap) car, then choose modifications, adding more and more as you use your car to win races. If you make enough money, you can sell your car and combine the money to buy a better used car, or even a new car... or just keep adding higher performance (read “Expensive”) parts to your car. Choose your enhancements wisely and you’ll notice a large increase in performance in your next race. If you are really interested in racing, and not just in playing a racing game, then Gran Turismo’s Simulation mode might have the depth you’ve always wanted and could never find. If you have less interest in real racing (or less patience), you’ll probably prefer the Arcade Mode.
For other tips on Gran Turismo, click here for our very own Gran Turismo Strategy Guide.