Forza Motorsport 3 off starting line in US

Racing videogame "Forza Motorsport 3" blasted off the US starting line on Tuesday.

The latest version of the hot franchise made by Turn 10 of Microsoft Game Studios revs up speed-demon thrills and lets aficionados customize cars for virtual competition.

- It's a very real experience - pro Formula One and American Le Mans Series driver Stefan Johansson said of the videogame.

- I got back in my old R10 Audi, and both the graphics on the track and the feel of the car were absolutely incredible -- every bump, every braking point is in the exact same place. -

- Forza Motorsport 3 - boasts an inventory of 400 cars and 100 race tracks, with the promise of additional content to be offered in the form of online downloads through Xbox Live.

- This is the game for anyone who loves cars, regardless of age or skill level - said Microsoft Game Studios executive vice president Phil Spencer.

- The passion and automotive expertise of our team at Turn 10 is evident in every track, headlight and lug nut. -

- Forza Motorsport 3 - is tailored for play exclusively on Microsoft 360 videogame consoles.