Gran Turismo 7 players are experiencing a leap forward in racing simulation realism with the release of a free update now fully supporting fanatec’s FullForce feedback protocol [[2]]. The “Spec III” update, released this month, addresses long-held criticisms of artificial force feedback adn aims to bridge the gap between visual fidelity and physical sensation in the popular racing title.This development arrives as the sim racing market expands, with enthusiasts increasingly seeking immersive, true-to-life experiences [[1]].
Gran Turismo 7 players are now experiencing a new level of realism thanks to the release of the Spec III free update, which fully supports Fanatec’s next-generation FullForce feedback protocol. The update, available for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, bridges a long-standing gap between the visual and auditory advancements in racing games and the physical sensations of driving. This development is particularly significant as the racing simulator market continues to grow, demanding increasingly immersive experiences.
Historically, force feedback in racing games has often felt artificial and limited. The Spec III update dramatically changes this, creating a more nuanced connection between the player and the virtual vehicle. Players can now feel subtle vibrations from the engine and the texture of the road surface through the steering wheel, offering a level of detail previously unavailable. This enhanced fidelity allows drivers to perceive the vehicle’s behavior with greater precision, sensing minute changes in grip and suspension.
The update unlocks the full potential of the Gran Turismo DD Extreme’s 15 Nm direct drive system. Rather than simply delivering raw power, the system now focuses on the accuracy and responsiveness of that power. Polyphony Digital President Kazunori Yamauchi emphasized that the development team meticulously optimized and adapted the system for each vehicle model in the game. This means the 15 Nm direct drive system will exhibit distinct characteristics depending on whether the player is driving a front-wheel drive car, a high-horsepower sports car, or another vehicle type. The FullForce protocol acts as a high-speed processor, relaying information about tire grip and suspension travel to the player with exceptional frequency and accuracy.
The update represents a significant investment for serious sim racing enthusiasts, demonstrating the value of high-end hardware. Professional race car drivers transitioning from real-world racing to simulation can leverage the increased information density provided by FullForce to refine their muscle memory. Even for casual gamers, the enhanced tactile feedback transforms driving from a simple button-pressing exercise into a more immersive and engaging experience.
Beyond the technical improvements, the update taps into the core desire for a realistic driving experience. “In real life, we pursue a unity between driver and machine, and that feeling of ‘road feel’ is common language for all car enthusiasts,” said Yamauchi. The long-term collaboration between Fanatec and Polyphony Digital is fundamentally about challenging the boundaries between the real and virtual worlds. The enhanced sensory experience offered by FullForce can transport players to iconic tracks like the Nürburgring, even with their eyes closed, fostering a deeper connection to the thrill of driving.
