Sony improves AI functionality in Gran Turismo 7 with GT Sophy 2.1

In a significant update to the racing video game Gran Turismo 7, Sony released a new version of its AI agent, GT Sophy, on March 28, 2025. This iteration, referred to as GT Sophy 2.1, enhances the capabilities of the AI by allowing it to function at 19 different racing tracks, an increase from the nine tracks available since November 2023. This advancement is part of Sony's ongoing efforts to create a more engaging and enjoyable gaming experience for players, catering to a wider range of skill levels. With the introduction of custom races, players can now engage with the AI at their own pace over various lap counts, paving the way for more dynamic gameplay. The development of GT Sophy originally commenced in 2022 when Sony's AI researchers aimed to create an unbeatable AI driver. This culminated in a series of matches in 2021, where GT Sophy triumphed over the best human players. Despite its initial success, Sony recognized the need to adjust the AI's performance to make it more accessible and competitive for a broader audience. Kaushik Subramanian, a senior staff research scientist at Sony AI, noted the importance of collaboration with the game's developers, Polyphony Digital, in refining the AI to improve player interaction and racing tactics. The latest updates have received mixed reviews from players. While some find the hard setting challenging yet achievable, there have been questions regarding whether the AI tailors its difficulty based on individual player performance. This adaptive feature could create a personalized experience designed to enhance player engagement. As players explore GT Sophy 2.1's capabilities, the focus remains on how well the AI can replicate the learning and decision-making processes of human competitors. The introduction of custom races also marks a significant evolution in how players can interact with AI, allowing for more strategic experimentation and growth in racing skills. Sony's commitment to improving AI technology underscores the broader trend within the gaming industry towards integrating sophisticated systems that enhance user experience. As technology progresses, integrating AI into games like Gran Turismo 7 will likely become a standard practice, allowing for endless possibilities in game design and player interaction. This move not only keeps the game relevant but positions Sony as a leader in using AI for creating immersive and enjoyable gaming experiences.