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Forza Motorsport 3 : dangerously lifelike!

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Marc Bouchard
In Beginner play, for instance, a fully-automatic mode shows the ideal trajectory (as in previous editions) and even applies the brakes for you in corners. Experts, meanwhile, are able to make all the necessary adjustments, buy upgraded parts and discover the little things that will help the car perform better and better.

Crash recognition systems and physics management make Forza Motorsport 3 one of the best racing games ever. In fact, in more advanced modes, the slightest collision has real consequences on the car’s behavior and handling.

Speed, grip (or lack thereof), track surface and even tire deformation are among the many variables that players can "feel" behind the wheel.


Not everyone can get these feelings, though. In Career play, the available cars are lower-end compacts, so the differences are negligible. You really have to push the machine, or compete with actual race cars in major events, to be able to appreciate everything that’s going on.

The computer will check the condition of your car up to 360 times per second and influence driving dynamics accordingly.

Other improvements to the game include the ability to flip your car over, new playing modes and cars (such as the cute Fiat Abarth) and, for the first time in the series, SUVs.

Without a doubt, Forza Motorsport 3 is a success. My colleague and professional race car driver, Bertrand Godin, had his hands full and barely escaped with the victory. That was in Expert play, however, and Microsoft representatives were pretty amazed.

Forza has elevated into a class of its own when it comes to console-based racing video games.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to get back to my Audi R8 -- the engine is screaming at me to resume action!
photo:Microsoft
Marc Bouchard
Marc Bouchard
Automotive expert
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