Jordan
I just noticed this. James, could you elaborate on why you think the old logo was better?
Okay thanks for giving me the time, I know you're very busy. Now I realise that all design is subjective. I also know it (the logo) was changed to fit with the cleaner, clearer, more contemporary look. So I understand why it was felt to be needed. However, I'd like to put a case to keep the "old" logo (for what its worth - I'm guessing
not much).
For a start, the old logo was more unique among game-type websites, it simply gave off a more solid, "Gran Turismo" racey vibe. It was really locked in everyone's heads as "GTPlanet" - in a very positive brand recognition way - not simply that we were "used to it" (IMO). Given the effectiveness, I'm not sure why it needed to be changed to a more generic (cleaner - but very common) look. I'd wager it's a little too soft for a site
mainly designed for car fans (virtual or otherwise). It looks like a b-grade game site if I'm being honest, lacking personality. It's too clinical and a little
fat.
What was really great about the old one was the little dot graphic encompassed by the circle communicated something other than simply
clean/contemporary. It gave to me an "international, all encompassing" kind of vibe (but stylised enough to not look exactly like a 'planet' - nice and subtle). Even if I wanted to look at it like it wasn't a 'globe' per se, it was still a circle (signifiying GTPlanet) providing a
home for loads of little dots (all the members
).
Even if I looked at this little graphic less literally - all those little dots were stylised to look more "racey", they looked like little drilled holes in racing pedals etc (yes I know it may just be me!)...
I felt it had more visual interest, being more appropriate for a GT web site, with more dynamics and a nice contrast of scale (all the little dots, big hard italicised (nice energy!) font...). The new logo lacks any kind of 'energy' or contrasing scale/dynamics making it seem lifeless, boring. The red "bubble" behind 'gt' doesn't communicate much other than look like a generic logo (like a brand of disinfectant or any other supermarket item).
Overall, the old logo was more unique, had more energy and was racier (italicising is good - hint hint). It communicated a few nice little ideas (at least to me), and had a very nice energy with more effective use of scale/dynamics. It was
still clean and contemporary IMO.
But again, design is always subjective. The new logo looks competent enough for a GT web site if I'd never seen the superior "old" one.
I feel bad whingeing like this, so I should point out I
love everything else about GTP ver. 8. Overall,
brilliant job Jordan.
I still love GTPlanet.
P.S...
The "n" and the "e" are the smidgest little bit close together on the new logo, which makes it look a bit naff. Ok, I'll shut up now...