This is a major 2011 update package for the PlayStation 3 racing simulator, Gran Turismo 5. Core gameplay is enhanced by the ability to save during lengthy endurance races and new controls for adjusting weather intensity on tracks. The update significantly expands the roster by adding 11 new NASCAR vehicles, alongside subsequent DLC that introduced more cars, tracks, and customization options. AI received tuning improvements, refining the simulation experience.
This release is a significant update package for the core racing simulator experience on the PlayStation 3 platform, released in October 2011. It focuses heavily on expanding vehicle rosters and introducing crucial quality-of-life enhancements designed to improve long-form racing sessions and overall track control. As a major revision, it fundamentally alters how players approach the endurance aspect of the simulation.
Core Gameplay Enhancements in Spec 2.0
The Spec 2.0 update introduced several highly requested features aimed at refining the simulation experience. A notable addition was the implementation of the ability to
save progress during endurance races, a critical feature for players tackling longer events without interruption. Furthermore, the update provided players with new levels of control over track conditions through the introduction of
weather intensity control settings.
New Vehicle Content and Roster Expansion
A key component of this update was the immediate injection of new licensed vehicles into the simulation. Specifically, this version added 11 new NASCAR vehicles to the available selection, broadening the scope of available racing disciplines within the game.
Improvements to Artificial Intelligence and Presentation
Beyond vehicle additions, the simulation received notable refinement through
AI improvements, aiming for more competitive and realistic on-track behavior from computer-controlled opponents. The update also included a new opening movie presentation for the title.
What impact did this update have on the overall simulation?
This update, combined with the subsequent DLC releases, represented a substantial expansion and refinement of the core racing simulation. The ability to save endurance races directly addressed a major barrier to entry for longer events, while the new vehicles and AI tuning provided fresh challenges and variety for existing players on the PlayStation 3.
Additional Content Releases Following the Update
Coinciding with the Spec 2.0 release, Polyphony Digital made further downloadable content available shortly thereafter. These packs, which launched in the weeks following the main update, expanded the game significantly with:
- 15 new vehicles
- Two new tracks
- 20 new driver costumes
- 100 new paint colors
It should be noted that, as of the current date, all downloadable content associated with this title has been permanently removed from the PlayStation Store.
Platform and Release Details
This content was released exclusively for the PlayStation 3 platform in late 2011, serving as a major revision to the base title, which falls under the Racing and Simulator genres.