We recently had a second chance to experience the power of the new Forza Motorsport 3 driving game and jumped t it with both feet. Not only would we get to preview four of the new tracks and a range of the supercars available, but we’d do it on a multi-screen simulator that provided a wrap-around experience.

Using three Xbox360 consoles and three flatscreen TVs, the in-car experience is heightened. The two side screens allow you to look into a corner, see cars attempting to pass you or watch yourself spin off the track.
The top-notch simulator was completed with a racing seat and the excellent Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo steering wheel that’s not only leather trimmed but features an official Porsche crest. Using the paddle gear shifters behind the wheel, we took control first of the Audi R8 for its speed and stability, moving up to the 911 Turbo itself, Lamborghini Murcielago and finally onto Audi’s Le Mans racer.

Forza 3 is designed to be highly user-friendly. Leaving all the driver assistance on, you simply bury the throttle and turn the steering wheel. The game will do some of the braking for you and ensure you get straight into the action. However, it’s fully customizable, so we started removing the brake assist, traction control, auto gearshift and stability control.
Forza 3 also has its trademark red braking and green acceleration markers showing you the correct line into and out of corners. These again can be turned off but allow the novice to learn a new track first time out.
Switching everything off, you end up with a very challenging drive that offers a reality that only comes with intimate knowledge of a vehicle’s handling characteristics. The car’s react realistically to throttle, brake and steering inputs, allowing experienced drivers to read the road and respond accordingly.
But it’s not only about the driving. The realism is further enhanced by the pin-sharp renditions of the cars and the surroundings. The road surface, grass, trees and hillsides all capture a level of reality that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the driving experience.
Having spent a few laps enjoying the game, we can’t wait to see the final version and get online to claim some silverware from our friends on Xbox Live.