Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the April 17 North American ship date for Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, available exclusively on PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3).  Developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will be available for $39.99 SRP on Blu-ray Disc (BD) and as a download via PLAYSTATION Store.  The BD version will offer added value with an exclusive behind-the-scenes High Definition (HD) video feature called "Beyond the Apex."
   
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, an intense precursor to Gran Turismo 5, features over 60 meticulously detailed vehicles from manufacturers such as Ferrari, Audi and Nissan.  Users will experience the vehicle-specific physics technology and intricate graphical rendering that Polyphony Digital is renowned for.  Additionally, for the first time in the history of the franchise, users can race online -- at 60 fps (frames per second) in stunning 1080p HD* -- with up to 16 vehicles at a time on beautifully rendered tracks from around the globe, including Daytona International Speedway and a London City track.
   
"Ten years following the introduction of Gran Turismo on PS one, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue delivers the most realistic and technologically advanced racing experience on any platform," said Jeff Reese, director, software marketing, SCEA.  "With 1080p graphics, revolutionary online features like Gran Turismo TV and the new in-cockpit racing view, the world’sbest-selling racing franchise will once again set the standard for racing games."
   
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will feature various innovative and revolutionary modes to harness PS3 system’s capabilities while further developing an automotive lifestyle and global community.  Among them is Gran Turismo TV, a new dedicated online channel available exclusively from PLAYSTATION Network that delivers worldwide motorsport programming and manufacturer content.  Additionally, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will support online racing events to foster community competition.  A new in-cockpit view will provide a unique perspective for racers and features real-time gauges and human animations that accurately represent the true performance and handling of each vehicle.  To extend the realistic driving experience, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is also compatible with the new DUALSHOCK 3 controller, which has vibration functionality.
   
The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating forGran Turismo 5 Prologue is "RP" for "Rating Pending."  For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.