The DIY Guy's Gran Turismo 7 arcade cabinet is far more impressive than virtual reality.

      19kfox via YouTube

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      If you’re of a certain generation, you may recall maneuvering a pixelated Ferrari Testarossa around a similarly pixelated city in an arcade, all while enveloped by the aroma of stale popcorn and spilled sodas. One enthusiast has modernized that experience.

      In a series of eight YouTube videos, 19kfox has constructed a Gran Turismo 7 arcade cabinet that offers a fresh way to enjoy the latest installment of the Gran Turismo series. It began as a discarded Sega Jambo Safari cabinet in need of extensive refurbishment, but this ensured that the final product would have a standard size compatible with other machines. This was not the case with a previous custom build, which ended up being too bulky.

      19kfox via YouTube

      The refurbished cabinet required a variety of modifications to fulfill the vision of the project. It was enlarged to fit a new monitor and seat, and the shifter was relocated from the dashboard to the right side of the seat, mimicking a real car's setup. This involved substantial cutting and welding. Reproduction stickers evoke the feel of the originals, and unlike typical arcade cabinets, this one includes a button to turn off the marquee light above the monitor to enhance player focus. In a dimly lit room, this setup offers a level of immersion that even VR cannot replicate.

      This complements the game’s beautifully rendered cars and tracks—a signature of the Gran Turismo series. While GT7 may take a conservative approach regarding its format and is less focused on realistic environment rendering beyond the track limits compared to titles like the Forza series, it still makes for an excellent fit for this arcade setup. It's incredibly impressive but retains a sense of enjoyment that dedicated simulation rigs for aspiring racing drivers often lack.

      Gran Turismo Arcade 2 – Finale

      Though it's four years old and launched with an impressive array of cars, developer Polyphony Digital continues to make valuable additions as part of their monthly updates. Where else can players select between a Renault Twingo and the Yangwang U9, a 1,300-horsepower, quad-motor electric hypercar with active suspension that allows it to drive on three wheels?

      There are plenty of incredible gaming rigs that can be built or purchased, but the combination of Gran Turismo 7 and a retro arcade cabinet stands out as one of the best matches between a game and its playing medium.