What is it?

A Playstation 4 motor racing video game developed by Polyphony Digital.

Gran Turismo Sport was released back in the autumn and proved a popular Christmas gift. As we limp through the dark days of January, it is an ideal way to stave off cabin fever especially with the recent upgrade providing some much needed offline game play.

Good Points?

The game has been classed as a real driving simulator and that description sums it up perfectly, from the sublime graphics to the individual technical aspects of more than 150 cars and 40 courses.

Every detail has been considered. There is no denying how beautiful the visuals are but the real magic lies in the addictive need to get faster – and better the times of yourself and your friends.

Online play is very impressive regardless of how good your internet connection is with no buffering or frustrating advantage to those with high-speed broadband.

The sportsmanship algorithm does a great job of matching gamers with similar abilities and racing etiquette.

Bad points?

The biggest gripe is that offline actions are not saved and an Internet connection is required.

Best for ...

Those who enjoy the thrill of speed and beating foes or tinkering and fine-tuning racing machines. Not solely the domain of the man cave, it can be a fun and sociable game to play with the kids or grandchildren too.

Avoid if ...

You enjoy the life that you have and time to live it because once you venture down this rabbit hole there is little chance of coming back.

Score: 9/10.

Gran Turismo Sport, £34.99 (playstation.com)