Master the Art of Cornering in Gran Turismo 7: Stay on the Track
Channel: Dan Turismo
Date: 2024-01-30

Master the Art of Cornering in Gran Turismo 7: Stay on the Track

Race Car Cornering in Gran Turismo 7: A Virtual Driving Masterclass

Gran Turismo 7 (GT7), the latest installment in the long-standing Gran Turismo series, is more than just a game; it's a virtual racing simulator that offers an incredibly realistic driving experience. Central to this experience is the art of cornering – a skill that separates casual players from racing virtuosos. In this article, we delve into the nuances of mastering race car cornering in GT7, a skill that is as thrilling as it is technical.

Cornering in GT7: More Than Just Turning the Wheel

At first glance, cornering might seem straightforward – just turn the wheel in the direction of the curve. However, in GT7, cornering is a complex dance that involves understanding your car's dynamics, the track layout, and the physics of racing.

1. Understanding Your Vehicle

Each car in GT7 behaves differently. Factors such as weight distribution, tire grip, power, and aerodynamics significantly affect how a car handles in a corner. For instance, a front-heavy car tends to understeer (where the car doesn't turn as much as you'd like), while a rear-heavy car might oversteer (where the car turns more than intended). Before you master cornering, you must understand your car's characteristics.

2. The Racing Line: The Path to Perfect Cornering

The racing line is the optimal path around the track. It's the shortest and fastest route, allowing for the highest speed through a corner with minimal tire wear. In GT7, following the racing line is crucial. It typically involves entering the corner from the outside, hitting the apex (the innermost point of the turn), and then exiting wide. This line allows for smoother and faster turns, crucial in shaving off seconds from your lap times.

3. Braking and Throttle Control

Effective cornering in GT7 isn't just about steering; it's equally about when and how you brake and accelerate. Braking should be done before entering a turn, shifting the weight forward for better front tire grip. However, braking too hard or too late can lead to understeer or even a spin. Similarly, knowing when to apply the throttle is key. Accelerating too early can cause oversteer or fishtailing, while too late can mean a loss in momentum and speed.

4. The Art of the Apex

Hitting the apex is a critical aspect of cornering in GT7. This is the point where your car is closest to the inside of the turn. Timing is crucial; hitting the apex too early or too late can throw off the whole turn, affecting your speed and trajectory. The goal is to approach the apex in such a way that allows for the earliest and smoothest application of the throttle.

5. Dealing with Different Corner Types

GT7 features a variety of tracks, each with its unique set of corners. Hairpin bends, sweeping curves, chicanes – each type requires a different approach. For instance, hairpins require heavy braking and tight steering, while sweeping corners demand precise throttle control to maintain speed.

6. Practice and Patience

Like real-life racing, mastering cornering in GT7 is about practice and patience. It's about learning from each lap, understanding where you can improve, and gradually refining your technique. GT7's detailed telemetry and replay system allow players to analyze their performance, offering insights into braking points, throttle application, and steering angles.

7. Advanced Techniques: Trail Braking and Throttle Steering

For advanced players, techniques like trail braking (where you continue to brake into the turn) and throttle steering (using the throttle to help steer the car) can offer an edge. These techniques require a deep understanding of your car's behavior and exceptional control.

8. Adaptability: Adjusting to Weather and Track Conditions

GT7's dynamic weather and track conditions add another layer to cornering. Wet tracks demand more cautious braking and gentler steering inputs, while changes in track temperature can affect tire grip. Adapting your cornering technique to these conditions is essential for maintaining control and speed.

The Reward of Mastery

Mastering cornering in Gran Turismo 7 is a rewarding experience. It’s about understanding the delicate balance between speed and control, the intricate dance between car, track, and driver. As you spend more time with the game, each turn becomes a learning opportunity, each lap a step closer to perfection. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated racing enthusiast, the journey to mastering the art of cornering in GT7 is a thrilling and fulfilling adventure in the virtual world of racing.