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Forza 2 dated, detailed

Upcoming ultrarealistic racer for Xbox 360 to roll off assembly line in May; Web site updated with track list, tips, and more.

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Next-gen auto enthusiasts are still waiting for the first car-tuning simulation to get out of neutral. With the Gran Turismo series taking a pass on a full release until Gran Turismo 5, the first next-gen hyperdetailed racer is setting up to be Forza Motorsport 2, developed by Microsoft Game Studios.

Car racing photgraphers all deal with bad cases of vertigo.
Car racing photgraphers all deal with bad cases of vertigo.

Provided the game isn't beset with another delay, Forza Motorsport 2 will hit the streets of North America this May, says Microsoft. The game was originally scheduled for a November 2006 release.

"Our schedule right now has us hitting Xbox certification around the middle of April and going gold soon afterwards," says Forza community representative Che Chou. "We want them to put the game on shelves as soon and fast as they can humanly muster. So optimistic estimates have us at retail in the first half of May--obviously the sooner the better, and that's our goal."

Microsoft also revealed the 12 tracks (of which various configurations will total 65 different courses) that will be featured in the game: Mugello Autodromo Internazionale, Suzuka Circuit, Sebring International Raceway, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Tsukuba Circuit, Road Atlanta, Silverstone Circuit, Nürburgring Nordschleife, Maple Valley Raceway, Sunset Peninsula Infield, New York Circuit, and Test Track.

The Forza Motorsport 2 Web site has been updated with driving tips, a breakdown of several tracks with screenshots, and information on the game's multiplayer component. For more information, read GameSpot's previous coverage.

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