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Car Makers Use Games As Virtual Test Drive

Posted by simoniker on from the realistic-damage-option-turned-on-irl dept.

Thanks to the Detroit Free Press for their article discussing car manufacturers garnering publicity, and even increased sales, from their vehicles appearing in racing games. According to brand manager David Milch: "It's a virtual test drive. The games are that sophisticated. People are getting a real feel for how the car will perform." The article goes on to explain: "The average age of a gamer is 29, and... more than half of all households in America play. That makes games a natural way to reach prime auto buyers - and those who are about to make their first purchase." Would you buy a car because you liked how it handled in a game?

5 of 31 comments (clear)

  1. Good question... by clambake · · Score: 4, Funny

    Would you buy a car because you liked how it handled in a game?

    No, but I'd buy a space ship.

    1. Re:Good question... by The+Munger · · Score: 5, Funny

      Would you buy a car because you liked how it handled in a game?

      I play GTA3. I steal a car because I liked how it handled in a game.

      --
      Refuse to make a statement in your sig!
  2. Adventure Racing, Transformers, etc. by the+darn · · Score: 4, Funny

    While I, personally, wouldn't allow a video game with less-than-realistic game physics affect my automotive purchase decisions, I'm convinced that my ex was none-too-subtly influnced by Beetle Adventure Racing (for the N64) in her desire for the siver-gray bubble she now drives...
    On the other hand the new Transformers: Alternators verion of Smokescreen as a Subaru WRX does kinda make me want a pseudo-rally car...but only if it changes into a giant alien robot.

    --
    Ceci n'est pas un post.
  3. I'd really like to... by Deanasc · · Score: 2, Funny

    I'd buy a Suzuki Escudo Pikes Peak. I've been lusting for one since I unlocked it in Gran Turismo.

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    I've hit Karma 50 and gotten a Score:5, Troll... I win!
  4. Re:Alternate Idea by Oddly_Drac · · Score: 2, Funny

    "I don't know about anyone else but I am sick of having incompetent drivers in high powered turbo sports cars trying to kill me and my family every time we venture on the road."

    At least they don't mass as much as an SUV.

    --
    Oddly Draconis
    Too cynical to live, too stubborn to die.