How to Play Multiplayer in Gran Turismo 7: A Guide to Racing with Friends and Strangers Alike

How to Play Multiplayer in Gran Turismo 7: A Guide to Racing with Friends and Strangers Alike

Gran Turismo 7, the latest installment in the iconic racing simulation series, offers an immersive multiplayer experience that allows players to compete against friends, rivals, and strangers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer to the series, mastering the multiplayer aspect of the game can elevate your experience to new heights. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways to play multiplayer in Gran Turismo 7, from setting up private lobbies to joining competitive online races.

1. Understanding the Multiplayer Modes

Gran Turismo 7 offers several multiplayer modes, each catering to different playstyles and preferences. The primary modes include:

  • Online Lobbies: These are player-created rooms where you can race against others in a more casual setting. You can set specific rules, such as car restrictions, track selection, and race duration.
  • Sport Mode: This is the competitive heart of Gran Turismo 7’s multiplayer. Sport Mode features daily races, time trials, and championships that are ranked, allowing you to climb the leaderboards and earn rewards.
  • Split-Screen Multiplayer: For those who prefer local multiplayer, Gran Turismo 7 supports split-screen racing, allowing you to compete against a friend on the same screen.

2. Setting Up an Online Lobby

Creating an online lobby is a great way to race with friends or like-minded players. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Navigate to the Multiplayer Section: From the main menu, select the “Multiplayer” option.
  2. Create a Lobby: Choose “Create Lobby” and customize the settings to your liking. You can set the race type (e.g., sprint, endurance), car restrictions, and track selection.
  3. Invite Players: Once the lobby is set up, you can invite friends directly or share the lobby code for others to join.
  4. Start the Race: Once everyone is ready, start the race and enjoy the competition.

3. Joining Sport Mode Races

Sport Mode is where the most competitive racing happens. To join a Sport Mode race:

  1. Access Sport Mode: From the main menu, select “Sport Mode.”
  2. Choose a Race: You’ll see a list of available races, each with different car and track requirements. Select one that suits your preferences.
  3. Qualify: Before the race, you may need to complete a qualifying lap to determine your starting position.
  4. Race: Once the race starts, compete against other players to finish as high as possible. Your performance will affect your Driver Rating and Sportsmanship Rating.

4. Tips for Success in Multiplayer

  • Practice Makes Perfect: Spend time mastering the tracks and cars in single-player mode before jumping into multiplayer. This will give you a competitive edge.
  • Understand the Rules: Each multiplayer mode has its own set of rules and regulations. Make sure you understand them to avoid penalties.
  • Communicate with Teammates: If you’re racing in a team event, communication is key. Use voice chat or text chat to coordinate strategies.
  • Stay Calm Under Pressure: Multiplayer racing can be intense, especially in competitive modes. Stay focused and avoid making rash decisions.

5. Customizing Your Experience

Gran Turismo 7 allows you to customize your multiplayer experience to suit your preferences. You can:

  • Adjust Difficulty Settings: Tailor the AI difficulty and assist settings to match your skill level.
  • Choose Your Car: Select from a wide range of cars, each with unique handling characteristics. Experiment with different cars to find the one that suits your driving style.
  • Modify Your Car: Use the game’s extensive tuning options to optimize your car’s performance for specific tracks and race conditions.

6. Exploring the Community

Gran Turismo 7 has a vibrant community of players who share tips, strategies, and custom liveries. Engaging with the community can enhance your multiplayer experience. Consider joining forums, Discord servers, or social media groups dedicated to Gran Turismo 7.

7. Staying Updated

Polyphony Digital, the developer of Gran Turismo 7, regularly updates the game with new content, including cars, tracks, and multiplayer events. Keep an eye on the official website and social media channels to stay informed about the latest updates and events.

8. Conclusion

Multiplayer in Gran Turismo 7 offers a rich and diverse racing experience that caters to all types of players. Whether you’re looking for casual fun with friends or intense competition in Sport Mode, there’s something for everyone. By understanding the different modes, setting up lobbies, and engaging with the community, you can make the most of your multiplayer experience in Gran Turismo 7.


Q: Can I play split-screen multiplayer in Gran Turismo 7? A: Yes, Gran Turismo 7 supports split-screen multiplayer, allowing you to race against a friend on the same screen.

Q: How do I improve my Driver Rating in Sport Mode? A: Your Driver Rating is based on your performance in races. Finishing in higher positions and maintaining a clean driving record will help improve your rating.

Q: Are there any penalties for bad sportsmanship in multiplayer? A: Yes, Gran Turismo 7 has a Sportsmanship Rating system. Unsportsmanlike behavior, such as ramming other cars, can result in penalties and a lower rating.

Q: Can I customize my car for multiplayer races? A: Yes, you can customize your car’s performance and appearance using the game’s tuning and livery editor options.

Q: How often are new multiplayer events added to Gran Turismo 7? A: Polyphony Digital regularly updates the game with new multiplayer events, so it’s worth checking the game frequently for new content.