Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec

 PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: SCEA
  • Release Date: Jul 9, 2001
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 492 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 408 out of 492
  2. Mixed: 50 out of 492
  3. Negative: 34 out of 492
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  1. NateMiracle
    Jan 2, 2003
    10
    New, phat, fast cars. Better graphics, and music. Additional tracks but only 150+ cars. but still an addictive racing game!
  2. BrianB.
    Jan 7, 2002
    10
    Just bought this game and I can't put the damn controller down, I haven't put any other game in my ps2 since.
  3. EdwinM.
    Jun 30, 2002
    10
    This game, although flawed in some ways, is the best console racing game I have ever played. The physics are great. The graphics are good, though not as good as, say, Project Gotham Racing or RalliSport Challenge for the XBOX. There are nowhere near as many cars as in GT2, and the ability to do racing modification is missed. There is also no used car lot. The AI could use some work, but This game, although flawed in some ways, is the best console racing game I have ever played. The physics are great. The graphics are good, though not as good as, say, Project Gotham Racing or RalliSport Challenge for the XBOX. There are nowhere near as many cars as in GT2, and the ability to do racing modification is missed. There is also no used car lot. The AI could use some work, but it's not all that bad. Overall, this is a great game. All that's left to say is: Bring on Gran Turismo 4!!!… Expand
  4. RobertG.
    Aug 1, 2002
    10
    This game rocks! Yeah, it's hard at first to get money... but hey, THAT'S LIFE! You just have to stick to it... after a week, I was to the point where I was winning all the cool, fast cars. NISSAN SKYLINES RULE!!!
  5. Beavis
    Feb 20, 2003
    10
    Cool.
  6. JoeM.
    Jun 9, 2003
    10
    This game is the best and will always be the best. It challenges your patience as well as your skill.
  7. CrazyDude
    Jun 1, 2005
    10
    This is by far the worst game ever and I'm being completely honest with you. I give it 10 out of 10 and my cat ate it. Your Friend, Spanky.
  8. SeanB.
    Jul 17, 2001
    10
    Lots of fun. When I first played the game I knew I'd be playing it for years and still be having fun.
  9. SeanM.
    Jul 19, 2001
    10
    I really enjoyed this game. I got it a week ago and I'm still playing it. My friends told me to get it, but I'm not a big fan of race car games. After I rented it I could not leave it -- the game is too wonderful. I love this game, and now my mom can't say I?m getting too fat by playing games cause this game makes me feel like i lost a pound or two. So in your face mom, I I really enjoyed this game. I got it a week ago and I'm still playing it. My friends told me to get it, but I'm not a big fan of race car games. After I rented it I could not leave it -- the game is too wonderful. I love this game, and now my mom can't say I?m getting too fat by playing games cause this game makes me feel like i lost a pound or two. So in your face mom, I am losing weight (when I?m really gaining some... I better go and play with my friends)!… Expand
  10. Robbie
    Sep 10, 2001
    10
    This game is great. The graphics are groundbreaking and put GT2 to shame. The lack of damage will surely be re-dressed in GT4!
  11. VirusMan
    Nov 5, 2002
    10
    I started off with a distinct dislike of any/all racing games. My friend showed me GT3 and after a few races I was hooked. The music, graphics and gameplay is superb. GT3 is by far the best racing game available.
  12. LaramieS.
    Apr 20, 2002
    10
    This game has the best graphics. And it's real technical like you actually have to hit the brakes for a turn but on some games you can make a 180 hair-pin at like 150 mph. I like this game because you can win cars that you cant buy or even look at till you won em like the GT500 and the GTO and the DIABLO GT, the McLaren F1 and all of the F1 cars. The one bad thing is in the begining This game has the best graphics. And it's real technical like you actually have to hit the brakes for a turn but on some games you can make a 180 hair-pin at like 150 mph. I like this game because you can win cars that you cant buy or even look at till you won em like the GT500 and the GTO and the DIABLO GT, the McLaren F1 and all of the F1 cars. The one bad thing is in the begining its a little hard to rack up the credits.… Expand
  13. NickB.
    Apr 6, 2002
    10
    I played this game 13 hours str8.
  14. JoshM.
    Mar 18, 2003
    10
    THIS GAME IS THE BOMB!!!!!
  15. junior
    Mar 26, 2003
    10
    É o melhor dos jogaos de corrida. ate fui.
  16. LennyB.
    Mar 5, 2003
    10
    This is the best game in the world so far. When i just bought the game i was hooked on it for so long. Even now (almost 3 years after i bought it), I have just mastered the art of drifts. I can drift any track u throw at me except test course. I am also near perfect at tuning. sorry if you take this as bragging but i am listing a few of the numerous things there are to do in this wonderful game.
  17. MatthewW.
    Jun 7, 2003
    10
    This game is da bomb. Definitely the best driving simulator ever. the cars are tight and the course are bril, i can't wait to get a steering wheel.;->
  18. SeabronS.
    Sep 20, 2003
    10
    I have the game, and I like it very much.So far I have 42 cars most of them I have bought.I also have 2 indy cars, their the fastest car on the game.
  19. DavidH.
    May 2, 2004
    10
    This is the best racing game ever. And it will be, until GT4 comes out.
  20. MarkMD
    Jul 2, 2004
    10
    Lets just say Race on.
  21. RickJ
    Jul 5, 2004
    10
    This is by far the best racing game out I love all of the cars. I just can't wait until GTA4 comes out.
  22. SqueM.
    Nov 6, 2007
    10
    Whoever says it's not as good or didn't like this game, you should be ashamed of yourself. This game is the best, even better than any of the Gran Turismo 1,2 and 4 and the Tourist Trophy game. This is when the PS2 reached the peak of the system's popularity. Without this, the PS2 wouldn't be as popular today. For people that said the car is slow, that's what NA Whoever says it's not as good or didn't like this game, you should be ashamed of yourself. This game is the best, even better than any of the Gran Turismo 1,2 and 4 and the Tourist Trophy game. This is when the PS2 reached the peak of the system's popularity. Without this, the PS2 wouldn't be as popular today. For people that said the car is slow, that's what NA and Turbo engines are for. Then, your car will be very fast. I hereby named Gran Turismo 3 the best racing game ever to grace a system (even better than Need for Speed, although that is an good racing game though).… Expand
  23. JevanieM.
    Jun 19, 2007
    10
    It's an addictive game play it once and you can't stop playing it.
  24. NathanA.
    Nov 28, 2001
    10
    Best Mother F.....n Game i Have Ever Played.
  25. JoãoS.
    Oct 15, 2001
    10
    Perfect.
  26. Pedro
    Dec 4, 2001
    10
    Since I have gotten GT3, I have virtually forgotten my other games. Needless to say, this is one of the BEST games I have EVER played!
  27. ThomasBennieBennie
    Jul 19, 2001
    10
    This game was so AWESOME! I appreciated the nice graphical analysises. I wish I had a car like that. Mom says we cant afford one though. We need to save our money for food and clothes. Oh Well. I still like playing this game at Microplay.
  28. Benzino
    Sep 20, 2001
    10
    Without a doubt the best racing game ever. It will take months to beat this game and that's if you play 24/7. It's not a perfect game but has there ever been a perfect game? The best graphics ever and one of the hardest games to complete!
  29. BrianW.
    Sep 28, 2001
    10
    Great game!! Played the PS1 version, then bought the PS2 version. Licensing bit is what makes this game different. You have to learn b4 you can earn.
  30. EricC.
    Oct 2, 2002
    10
    This was the first next-gen game that I ever saw or played. And when I turned on my PS2 for the first time and saw GT3, all doubts I had for the system left me completely. I have never seen any game that has come this close to making anything this realistic. The driving is completely accurate to the real thing. The controls and great car music only add to what is already fantastic. If you This was the first next-gen game that I ever saw or played. And when I turned on my PS2 for the first time and saw GT3, all doubts I had for the system left me completely. I have never seen any game that has come this close to making anything this realistic. The driving is completely accurate to the real thing. The controls and great car music only add to what is already fantastic. If you don't like cars or racing, then there are still crappy, lower level car shoot'em ups (a.k.a., Twisted Metal: Black) to satisfy your needs. Attempts for racing games to be better than the GT series, like Project Gotham, have yet to reach this level of greatness. GT3 can only be beat by GT4 as being the best racing game ever made.… Expand
  31. MarcusLindberg
    Jan 27, 2002
    10
    This is the best f**king game in the hole world, i would to gave it a 20 but i sadly can't. The soundtrack is almost the best thing i the hole game, Judas Priest and Jimi Hendrix and Motley Crue! It's to good to be true. The graphics is amasing! By the way, i really want beat up the Sasha K. down to a huge meatcrusher. Gues why!
  32. B.Erickson
    Feb 26, 2002
    10
    KICK ASS!!!!
  33. Timmy
    Aug 17, 2002
    10
    This is the most awesome game ever. And I say f... Edwin M. You and your XBOX suck. PGR isn't realistic, and what the hell is a Kudos?
  34. SeanK.
    Aug 4, 2002
    10
    This is a very good game but at first it is really hard to get into it. But when you start getting it becomes very fun. Example: Get the F090/S indy car very fast and good handling.
  35. ArmanA.
    Dec 15, 2003
    10
    This game is the most incredible game I had ever bought.I had a friend who wanted to buy a PS2 and wondered what game will he buy?"Well why don't you try GT3 A-Spec?"So he bought it! Until Know he's been playing it again and again! Now he love cars because of this game.Because this game is unexplainable because it is almost near perfection, like stability control,engine This game is the most incredible game I had ever bought.I had a friend who wanted to buy a PS2 and wondered what game will he buy?"Well why don't you try GT3 A-Spec?"So he bought it! Until Know he's been playing it again and again! Now he love cars because of this game.Because this game is unexplainable because it is almost near perfection, like stability control,engine modification,weight reduction and many modification upgrades.That's what we want from a car. That's why it worth a 10 STAR!!… Expand
  36. JZ
    Apr 1, 2003
    10
    I'm a mechanic in real life, and this is my favorite racing game by far. The realism is un matched!!!
  37. NaamanB.
    Jul 13, 2003
    10
    The most superior racing sim to date!! Visuals are 1st class, music is plausible, engine noises actually sound like the real thing and is different for each of the 150 cars. Realism is unrivaled; even the famed Skip Barber Racing School gave tips. Addiction factor is very good if you know what you are doing. A hard game, a Playstation hallmark.
  38. MikeJ.
    Jul 17, 2003
    10
    The greatest game ever.
  39. AshleyT.
    Jul 17, 2003
    10
    The best.
  40. Cheetah
    Oct 19, 2004
    10
    Great game,..very real and amazing graphics for a race simulator. also, the car customization is pro!!!
  41. FernandoC.
    Jan 26, 2004
    10
    Spanish Comment: Que buen juego... que buenas graficas... buena musica, buen simulador... de los juegos que me han dejado mas contento de comprar este! Recomendadisimo!
  42. TyC.
    Feb 23, 2004
    10
    This game is by far THE BEST driving game around. It has the perfect, most realistic controls. I can't believe it is this good. ***Hint: On one car, you can 'tweak' it, and this car will now go over 1111 mph!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It doesn't just show it on the meter, it realisticly does!!! Amazing!!!
  43. KevH.
    Sep 18, 2004
    10
    It's The Best.
  44. VagelisT.
    Dec 3, 2006
    10
    The best driving sim. I have ever play! Far away better than GT4.
  45. RamirezDJ
    Dec 30, 2001
    10
    Yah, it´s good!
  46. WesleyC.
    Oct 29, 2001
    10
    The graphics astounded me the first time I saw them. Even though the lack of good, fine cars, this is still a game not to be without. The best thing well, since the other best thing.
  47. AndrewE.
    Jul 15, 2001
    10
    Excellent control. Excellent graphics. (You will want to play it on a flat screen) It's fun to play with other people. I even got my step-mother to play, what an accomplishment! She hardly ever likes video games. And she liked it. So even if you are not a racing fan, if you play this game you will be.
  48. KoryD.
    Aug 21, 2001
    10
    This game gets a definite 10! This is the perfect game for the many race enthusiasts out there! With the combination of Arcade and Simulation modes the game never gets boring. If you're thinking of buying this game, I urge you to get your hands on the first copy you see!!
  49. JakeM.
    Sep 28, 2001
    10
    One word describes this game. AWESOME. The realistic physics, cool lighting, freaking awesome cars let you know that your money is well spent. I have yet to play an arcade with all these shinny elements. Bottom line: If you own a Playstation 2, you probably already own this game.
  50. JimC.
    Jun 23, 2003
    10
    One of the best racing game ever made.
  51. RazorX.
    Oct 18, 2004
    10
    Absolutely, unbelievably, cool! This game is the best I've seen on PS2.
  52. Kewlkat
    Aug 15, 2007
    10
    Imagine the most graphically enhanced racing game on ps2 with unmatched precision controls and an unbeatable single player mode. Now top it off with fantasy cars you will never be able to drive in real life, and a song playlist that's to die for. Ok, are you finished? Ok, now go buy Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec, and don't be surprised your expectations were topped.
  53. ShawnH.
    Nov 15, 2001
    10
    I just rented this game for 5 days and was crying when I had to return it.The no damage part sucks, but hey, look at the graphics!!
  54. JoshC.
    Nov 29, 2001
    10
    A 10 for a sweet ass game, but I?m still waiting for some more exterior mod's, I'd like to see some Rice in the game, where are all the bodykits and big ass spoilers haha.
  55. WilliamW.
    Dec 29, 2001
    10
    Forget 11, this game deserves a 20. It is the best racing ever. Quite possibaly the best game of all time.
  56. Reggie
    Nov 11, 2009
    10
    I finished Grand Turismo 3 and then went to 4 and i was totally dissapointed. Very Choppy Feel and the smoothness was totally taken away. i went back and played 3 again. it is the best game ever. The Cars look sooo realistic and the way it drives down the track is amazing. The bumbs, the curves, the skidding? Common, u dont get that in any of the newer driving games, especially like GT 3. I finished Grand Turismo 3 and then went to 4 and i was totally dissapointed. Very Choppy Feel and the smoothness was totally taken away. i went back and played 3 again. it is the best game ever. The Cars look sooo realistic and the way it drives down the track is amazing. The bumbs, the curves, the skidding? Common, u dont get that in any of the newer driving games, especially like GT 3. Dont get me wrong, The need for speeds, Midnight DUD edition and some other driving games are ok but the GT 3 has a realistic reaslism that you wont find even on todays Systems. EVEN ON A OLDER TV IT'S STILL ENJOYABLE. i think i made my point. Good night all. I got 15 laps to run.… Expand
  57. ArkonBlade
    Jun 26, 2011
    10
    now i wasnt into GT 1 or 2 very much but 3 just changed my whole view of this series . its a driving sim done to pretty much perfection . you get over 500 cars a ton of tracks the controls are fantastic steering wheel or controler i found worked great. the graphics in there day looked fantastic and the music was pretty good some nice tracks like the cult's she sells sanctaury and more.now i wasnt into GT 1 or 2 very much but 3 just changed my whole view of this series . its a driving sim done to pretty much perfection . you get over 500 cars a ton of tracks the controls are fantastic steering wheel or controler i found worked great. the graphics in there day looked fantastic and the music was pretty good some nice tracks like the cult's she sells sanctaury and more. there are a ton of races in this game and to complete it will take you a long long time . i spent over 100 hours i9n this game and it stands to me the best racing game ever made .… Expand
  58. Justinavery7074
    Apr 9, 2013
    10
    Ever since this game, every racing game has been compared to it. It's just the greatest racing game ever. So much has been rightfully said. If you have yet to play it, wtf
  59. Tubie
    Oct 3, 2010
    10
    Incredible game, amazing graphics for the time and pretty much the best driving simulator that had come out at the time. This game had insane hype and it's one of those rare cases where a game this hyped lives up to it and then some.
  60. jAbMaN
    Jan 31, 2011
    10
    One of the best racing games ever made for the Playstation 2. Killer soundtrack, great graphics, and fast cars make this game legendary for the racing genre.
  61. sinadoom
    Sep 11, 2012
    10
    Even by the standards of the day, GT3 A-Spec has unbelievable graphics and unmatched driving physics. Framerate is smooth, there are a lot of cars to choose from, a full range of adjustable driving assists and some of the most realistic driving you will ever come across in a racing game. The licesnes are fun and gold medal is actually difficult unlike most modern games. There are a lot ofEven by the standards of the day, GT3 A-Spec has unbelievable graphics and unmatched driving physics. Framerate is smooth, there are a lot of cars to choose from, a full range of adjustable driving assists and some of the most realistic driving you will ever come across in a racing game. The licesnes are fun and gold medal is actually difficult unlike most modern games. There are a lot of cars that are hugely detailed (although admittedly some cars do look noticeably better than others) and controls are simple, responsive and make every corner satisfying. The choice of tracks is dissapointing but you still get some decent ones like Mazda Laguna Seca. The amount of content in this game, the replay value and addictiveness of trying to beat best times even on livesnses where you drive in a straight line and stop inside a box means that it's a game which can be enjoyed at any point, anytime. The attention to detail combined with its simplicity but hidden complexity in trying to get best times makes it both accessible, fun and hardcore. If they added more tracks this would be the ultimate simulator for its time. All it would be missing is interior view.… Expand
  62. Kamal_Voltaic
    Oct 30, 2012
    10
    I remember this game well, it's still the best racing game that I've ever played. I've spent countless hours on this game for years. So many cars to buy, so many championships, I don't think I've ever got to complete it fully due to the difficulty to gain the 'S' license, but the game itself is so diverse. There's something for everyone. Highly enjoyable, beautiful songs, beautifulI remember this game well, it's still the best racing game that I've ever played. I've spent countless hours on this game for years. So many cars to buy, so many championships, I don't think I've ever got to complete it fully due to the difficulty to gain the 'S' license, but the game itself is so diverse. There's something for everyone. Highly enjoyable, beautiful songs, beautiful graphics for 2001.. A triumph.… Expand
  63. KevinHeryanto
    Oct 8, 2014
    10
    This is the best racing game i have ever played!
    featuring over 180 cars, with an incredible graphics (for a ps2 game).
    the physics is really great.
    this game is really the first GT game that change my life forever.
    ive even learned to drive from gt3.
    the best racing game that i have ever played (over 400 hours on it)
  64. perkjl
    Jan 4, 2016
    10
    A PS2 Classic and absolutely amazing! Sleek menu interfaces, challenging, and tons of cars! Hours and hours of replay value. Gran Turismo 3 It never gets old.
  65. mixiladall
    Sep 23, 2016
    10
    perfect************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
  66. nestoryavith
    Jun 22, 2017
    10
    This game brought my passion for racing to life and the feeder music is just amazing. I got the disc and played non stop for like half a year and just couldn't get enough. The graphics are awesome, the car mechanics are insane that you might actually think you're driving at some point. Gran Tourismo 3 A-spec is the best and I mean the best racing simulator period.
  67. Jack5switch
    Nov 27, 2020
    10
    Gran Turismo 3 is a timeless masterpiece. First of all, the game doesn't care how you drive. If you're n the middle of a race and about to lose, you are able to use shortcuts and other techniques to best the AI players, and it is these oversights that make the racing more engaging than normal. Gran Turismo 3 also has the best simulation mode of the entire franchise, where all of the racesGran Turismo 3 is a timeless masterpiece. First of all, the game doesn't care how you drive. If you're n the middle of a race and about to lose, you are able to use shortcuts and other techniques to best the AI players, and it is these oversights that make the racing more engaging than normal. Gran Turismo 3 also has the best simulation mode of the entire franchise, where all of the races have clearly identifiable names and pictures, and there is no overly complicated map to navigate. Some events even repeat difficulties, which makes it really easy to tell what kind of car you need to bring and which ones you'll be going up against. Finally, Gran Turismo 3 has the best arcade mode. Not only can you use the overpowered cars you own in simulation mode, but the game tracks which single-player races you win, and for every six tracks you beat, you earn six more. Getting every light on the bonus items screen to turn on is a true endurance test. Let's not forget that the menu and in-game interfaces are distinct and striking to the eye with its orange text, and the music arranged for this game is clear against the noises of the car engines. Gran Turismo 3 is feature-rich, it is engaging, it is a marvel of its era, it is timeless, it is my childhood and I am ashamed that barely anyone else got to experience this hidden gem of a racing game. It is a grand old time.… Expand
  68. mmcfly566
    May 25, 2023
    10
    Criminally underrated, at least it seems like that on this website. Truly a revolutionary game.
  69. AKthaBeast
    May 7, 2018
    10
    One of the best looking PS2 games and almost on par with some low budget PS3 games. It is a challenge because the mindset when playing a racing video game is expecting it to react like an arcade racer and not a simulation racer but once you get used to it, it gets addicting because you can actually see and feel your skills get better the more you play the game
  70. KaleSungurCrane
    Nov 19, 2020
    10
    OVERALL - 95%

    Gameplay - 9/10 Graphics (for time) - 10/10 Story - 5/10 Game Length - 9/10 Characters - 4/10 Level/Area Design - 8/10 Atmosphere - 8/10 Sound Effects - 10/10 Soundtrack - 10/10 Replay Value - 7/10 I'm utterly useless as driving games, so when a game like this comes along and completely captivates me it must be incredible. Loved the variety and the soundtrack    OVERALL - 95%

    Gameplay - 9/10
    Graphics (for time) - 10/10
    Story - 5/10
    Game Length - 9/10
    Characters - 4/10
    Level/Area Design - 8/10
    Atmosphere - 8/10
    Sound Effects - 10/10
    Soundtrack - 10/10
    Replay Value - 7/10

    I'm utterly useless as driving games, so when a game like this comes along and completely captivates me it must be incredible. Loved the variety and the soundtrack is one of the coolest until date. I still sucked though.    … Expand
  71. XabiXroSS
    Feb 8, 2022
    10
    This game is amazing, that's it.

    It was released on 2001. That's 21 years ago. I played it when I was a kid, and I loved it. I am now 20 years old, and can't still understand how a game could look so good in 2001. On the original PS2 it's great, but when I tried it on emulator with some patches to see how it looks, I couldn't believe how good it looks, you can even think it's a    This game is amazing, that's it.

    It was released on 2001. That's 21 years ago. I played it when I was a kid, and I loved it.

    I am now 20 years old, and can't still understand how a game could look so good in 2001.

    On the original PS2 it's great, but when I tried it on emulator with some patches to see how it looks, I couldn't believe how good it looks, you can even think it's a last generation racing game with the visual upgrades.

    Also, the car selection is fantastic, it might not be as extended as the GT2 one, but it's still really good.

    And the tracks, all of them are memorable, and really satisfying to drive on them.

    At last, the career mode is really good too, you'll have lots of championships to race on, as well as a very challenging license tests mode.

    The best Gran Turismo on the franchise on my opinion.    … Expand
  72. Usuario01
    Aug 17, 2022
    10
    Gran Turismo 3 ♡ Gran Turismo 3 ♡ Gran Turismo 3 ♡ Gran Turismo 3 ♡
  73. randrewmccarthy
    Mar 21, 2022
    10
    This was the first Playstation 2 game I ever had. I received it as a Christmas gift and play it still to this day in 2022. Gran Turismo 4 was objectively a better game due to the increased content and slightly better graphics, but this will forever be my favorite game of all time. I would give anything to be 11 years old again so I could recreate those same memories.
  74. DaniiChile
    Mar 26, 2022
    10
    Que recuerdos más lindos tengo con gt3. Gráficos hermosos y jugabilidad perfecta.
  75. Weiend
    Jul 20, 2022
    10
    This game goes beyond being one of the greatest racing games ever made. I'd reckon it's one of the greatest games of all time. This game just feels right. The aesthetics, the gameplay, the controls, the great music and sound effects, and over all experience is best of its class. I have very, very fond memories of this game growing up. Little 4 year old me was blown away by this game andThis game goes beyond being one of the greatest racing games ever made. I'd reckon it's one of the greatest games of all time. This game just feels right. The aesthetics, the gameplay, the controls, the great music and sound effects, and over all experience is best of its class. I have very, very fond memories of this game growing up. Little 4 year old me was blown away by this game and have been in love with it ever since. Even without my strong bias, it is worthy of praise.
    All you need to know is that Snoop Dogg made a song for this game. That's how good it is.    … Expand
  76. JamesVariety
    May 30, 2023
    10
    HOW COULD I HAVE FORGOTTEN MY BELOVED!? Even more than Gran Turismo 4, I adore this game - not because it's a better game, but because it was my first. I was so caught up in the #GT4SWEEP, that I forgot how criminally underrated this title was on this list.

    This game is pure, concentrated nostalgia directly injected into my veins. Little did 3 year-old me know it at the time, but this    HOW COULD I HAVE FORGOTTEN MY BELOVED!? Even more than Gran Turismo 4, I adore this game - not because it's a better game, but because it was my first. I was so caught up in the #GT4SWEEP, that I forgot how criminally underrated this title was on this list.

    This game is pure, concentrated nostalgia directly injected into my veins. Little did 3 year-old me know it at the time, but this game would shape my taste in music, my love for cars (specifically, the Supra), and my appreciation for gorgeous skyboxes (Smokey Mountain GOATed).

    It may not be the most car-rich or the best balanced or the most technically impressive (even though it still holds up like a champ to this day), but god...DAMN does this game have class, character, charisma, and charm.

    This will always be my favorite. Not only deserving of a top spot in any racing game ranking, but any game ranking in general.    … Expand
  77. Rodrigoalcassas
    May 1, 2023
    10
    A Gran Turismo 2 with better graphics!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  78. Gt4sweep
    May 25, 2023
    10
    Goaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat
  79. Kai55
    May 25, 2023
    10
    Stellar game for a release title. Unbelievable. Childhood. Since had a lifetime interest in motoring.
  80. Komple
    May 31, 2023
    10
    Perfectly encapsulates the Gran Turismo experience. The only things wrong with this game is its smaller amount of content compared to other games in the series, and an unbalanced length for races in the professional league. Everything else is pure perfection and one of the best racing games of all time. Beautiful graphics and lighting effects for the time. Most intuitive physics in thePerfectly encapsulates the Gran Turismo experience. The only things wrong with this game is its smaller amount of content compared to other games in the series, and an unbalanced length for races in the professional league. Everything else is pure perfection and one of the best racing games of all time. Beautiful graphics and lighting effects for the time. Most intuitive physics in the series in my opinion (although not the most realistic by far). A great career mode and even a progression system in Arcade Mode. It's a must play for racing game fans or anyone looking to get into the genre.… Expand
  81. XboxPro
    Jul 18, 2023
    10
    Very fun game. I've been playing for a while and don't feel much burn out. Cool races, cars, and awesome graphics. it might take a little to get used to, but its a very fun game nonetheless.
  82. B.S.
    Oct 9, 2002
    9
    Great but the shadows that go over your car sometimes really bug me! You should rent before you buy... There really isn't to much to say about a perfect game.
  83. HeatherA.
    Nov 1, 2001
    9
    I finally got my PS2 and Gran Turismo 3 is an excellent buy for the money! Way better graphics compared to G.T.2! I give it a 9 for no damage and the cardboard-looking fans. Flags move, but they don't?
  84. ChrisB.
    Dec 5, 2001
    9
    Man! What a cool game. Not flawless but the only racing game to have right now. The music? I think it's great! Glad it's not the usual techno bull.
  85. MichaelP.
    Oct 8, 2001
    9
    I give this game a 9 because of the damage. It doesn?t matter how hard you crash...no damage! But there is a huge selection of cars and the music is ok but kinda behind the times. If you have ps2 buy this game!!
  86. PsychoMantis
    Feb 20, 2002
    9
    A nice showcase of the PS2's graphic power, the musical tracks, despite their variety, all work well. As do the sound effects. Some may complain about the control in the game but if this is a racing sim, not an arcade type racer. No jumps, no barrel rolls just mostly realistic racing and sweet ass cars. This isn't exactly my most treasured game i own but it still warrants a A nice showcase of the PS2's graphic power, the musical tracks, despite their variety, all work well. As do the sound effects. Some may complain about the control in the game but if this is a racing sim, not an arcade type racer. No jumps, no barrel rolls just mostly realistic racing and sweet ass cars. This isn't exactly my most treasured game i own but it still warrants a purchase from the general public.… Expand
  87. LilG.
    Jun 14, 2002
    9
    Buy this game! Buy a gameshark too! Way to hard. Awesome graphics!
  88. ChrisR-B
    Oct 31, 2001
    9
    This is pure petrolnography; hideously addictive. And I hate racing games!
  89. Jack
    Aug 13, 2001
    9
    Been playing this game far too much (according to my girlfriend.) It is great. Graphics are great, the driving is great. Only thing that bugs me is the computer controlled cars AS (Artificial stupidity). I mean they follow a preprogrammed course, and that's it. In a game this great every little weakness shines through, and while otherwise a great game the AI can be sometimes pretty annoying.
  90. ChaingD.
    Sep 29, 2001
    9
    Great graphics, great cars. The AI needs some work, along with the lack of damage. But, other than these few minor downsides, this is a good game. I give it a 9.
  91. AutobahnS.
    Jan 13, 2002
    9
    OK this is the only game I actually "need", there is one thing I hate about it is that there a not enough cars.
  92. Jesse
    Mar 3, 2002
    9
    Cool ass but gets boring once you get into, professional league like 20 laps that's insane. And Endurance races suck ass due to their length. Mini is the best car in the game.
  93. [Anonymous]
    Jun 20, 2002
    9
    This game is not for renting, only buying. It rocks!!! Although, it does take a really long time to get money, and the cars are hard to drive. The realism is unbelieveable, even for a game that came out last year!! I love this game, but beware if you are not good at racing games.
  94. EricB.
    Jul 7, 2002
    9
    Cool, realistic but it gets boring once you try to get money.
  95. JustinM.
    Mar 15, 2004
    9
    Not much to dislike here, this game is so awesome, but GT4 will blow it away.
  96. JanneJ
    Jun 22, 2008
    9
    Very great and addictive game. The reason for 9 is that there isnt enough cars comparing to GT2 or GT4. It is so fun!
  97. Hoagie
    Nov 15, 2001
    9
    It kicks ASS!
  98. GregL.
    Nov 17, 2001
    9
    They should include more cars and some street races and cars with (N.O.S.) boost.
  99. GreenL.
    Nov 5, 2001
    9
    Has to be one of the best racing games I have ever played!
  100. PeterD.
    May 12, 2002
    9
    Fun to start, then gets (a bit) boring...but...find the Polyphony 001/2, and it turns into the best F1 simulation you are ever likely to play. Monaco is an unbelieveable experience - you have to get a 1'11'.89 to know what I REALLY mean. The only reason it doesn't get a 10 is because this feature is frustratingly minimal. They should do a GT3 F1 exclusive edition or Fun to start, then gets (a bit) boring...but...find the Polyphony 001/2, and it turns into the best F1 simulation you are ever likely to play. Monaco is an unbelieveable experience - you have to get a 1'11'.89 to know what I REALLY mean. The only reason it doesn't get a 10 is because this feature is frustratingly minimal. They should do a GT3 F1 exclusive edition or something...I wouldnt leave the house. … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best PS2 Game of 2001
6
#6 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2001
2
#2 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2001

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
95

Universal acclaim - based on 54 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 53 out of 54
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 54
  3. Negative: 0 out of 54
  1. XGP Gaming
    97
    GT3 simply is one of the best looking racers to date on any system. In fact, it's one of the best looking games available for the PS2, even being two years past its initial release date.
    Read full review
  2. Armchair Empire
    96
    Better physics, smarter opponents, and a huge leap in its visual presentation make GT3 a racer well worth playing.
    Read full review
  3. Absolute Playstation
    93
    The gameplay is rock solid and the graphical upgrade makes everything feel fresh and new.
    Read full review
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