How to Drift in Gran Turismo 3: Mastering the Art of Drifting
Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec, a racing simulation game released in 2001, has a wide range of cars and tracks that can be explored. One of the most exciting features of the game is the drifting mode, which allows players to experience the thrill of sliding their cars around corners while maintaining speed and control. In this article, we will guide you on how to drift in Gran Turismo 3, covering the basics, techniques, and strategies to master this art.
Understanding Drifting
Before diving into the details, it’s essential to understand what drifting is. Drifting is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, causing the rear wheels to lose traction and slide around the corner. This technique requires a good understanding of car control, braking, and acceleration. In Gran Turismo 3, drifting can be achieved by using the correct car, track, and driving style.
Choosing the Right Car
Not all cars in Gran Turismo 3 are suitable for drifting. You’ll need a car with rear-wheel drive and a powerful engine to generate enough traction to initiate a drift. Focus on cars with a high power-to-weight ratio such as the Nissan 350Z, Toyota Supra, or the Mazda RX-7. These cars are designed to be agile and responsive, making them perfect for drifting.
Preparation is Key
Before attempting to drift, make sure you’re familiar with the track you’re racing on. Study the track layout, including the corners, curves, and any obstacles that may affect your drifting performance. Adjust your camera view to get a better view of the track by pressing the R3 button on your DualShock 2 controller.
Drifting Techniques
There are three main techniques to drift in Gran Turismo 3: initial entry, adjustment, and exit.
Initial Entry
To initiate a drift, press the accelerator gently while entering a turn. This will help transfer weight to the rear wheels, making them lose traction and slide around the corner. Adjust your speed and acceleration based on the turn’s characteristics and the car’s performance.
Adjustment
Once you’ve initiated a drift, slowly lift off the accelerator and gently tap the brakes to adjust the drift. This will help maintain the slide and prevent the car from catching up with the turn.
Exit
As you exit the turn, gently press the accelerator to recover from the drift. Make sure to slow down before entering the next turn to avoid losing control.
Common Drifting Mistakes
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t master drifting right away. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Applying too much brake: Too much braking can cause the car to catch up with the turn, ending the drift.
- Over-accelerating: Too much acceleration can cause the car to spin out or lose control.
- Failing to adjust: Failing to adjust your speed and acceleration during the drift can result in losing control.
Tips and Strategies
Here are some additional tips and strategies to help you master drifting in Gran Turismo 3:
- Use the correct tire: The correct tire can significantly affect your drifting performance. Choose tires with high grip and traction for better drift control.
- Master the art of feathering: Feathering involves gently tapping the accelerator and brakes to control the drift. Practice feathering to maintain control and speed.
- Drift in the correct gear: Shift gears in the correct gear to maintain engine speed and avoid stalling.
- Practice, practice, practice: Practice drifting on different tracks and with different cars to master the technique.
Conclusion
Mastering drifting in Gran Turismo 3 requires practice, patience, and a good understanding of car control. By following the techniques and strategies outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a drifting master. Remember to stay focused, adjust to different tracks and cars, and practice regularly to improve your skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What cars are best for drifting in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Focus on cars with rear-wheel drive and a high power-to-weight ratio such as the Nissan 350Z, Toyota Supra, or the Mazda RX-7.
- How do I initiate a drift in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Press the accelerator gently while entering a turn to transfer weight to the rear wheels and initiate a drift.
- What’s the best way to adjust the drift in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Slowly lift off the accelerator and gently tap the brakes to adjust the drift and maintain the slide.
- How do I recover from a drift in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Gently press the accelerator to recover from the drift and regain control of the car.
- Can I drift on all tracks in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: No, not all tracks are suitable for drifting. Focus on tracks with high-speed corners and tight turns for the best drifting experience.
- Do I need to adjust my suspension settings for drifting in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Yes, adjust your suspension settings to optimize handling and traction for better drifting performance.
- Can I drift in time trials in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Yes, drifting is allowed in time trials in Gran Turismo 3, but it may affect your overall time.
- How do I achieve a perfect drift in Gran Turismo 3?
Answer: Achieving a perfect drift requires a combination of proper car control, speed, and acceleration management. Practice regularly to develop your drifting skills.
By following these FAQs and the techniques outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of drifting in Gran Turismo 3. Happy drifting!