GT5 'about a year away'

Gran Turismo 5: Prologue is nearing its release date in both North America (April 15) and Europe (March 28).

However, some gamers may be forgiven for wondering whether to splash their cash on the Prologue or simply wait until the full version of the game, Gran Turismo 5, is released.

Gran Turismo 5: Prologue follows a similar concept as the game Gran Turismo 4: Prologue, which was released in Japan and Europe about a year before Gran Turismo 4. It gave gamers a significant taste of what was to come but fell short of being a full game.

However, those holding their breath for Gran Turismo 5 proper had better have a decent lung capacity. According to Sony America associate producer Chris Hinojosa-Miranda, the game is unlikely to arrive much earlier than this time next year.

In answer to a fan's pondering on the Official US PlayStation blog as to whether or not to buy the game, Hinojosa-Miranda said, "To further clarify, GT5 is still about a year away. You should just decide now to buy it [Gran Turismo 5: Prologue], enjoy it, go online and race against anyone and everyone, rank number one worldwide, get the girl (or guy), and become the most popular kid in town. The end."