E3 Expo: Forza 2 Announced for XBOX 360

Forza Motorsport for the original Microsoft XBOX was arguably the best driving simulation on that console, and earned a solid reputation as Microsoft’s answer to Sony’s impressive Gran Turismo series.

Using the yearly spectacle — some may say circus — known as the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) as the launch venue, Microsoft recently announced Forza Motorsport 2 for the XBOX 360. According to Microsoft, Forza 2 features a host of improvements over the original game, including a new shift-override feature and advanced clutch control options. More than 300 cars will be available in-game — up by about 50 cars over the original Forza — and will finally include models from Lamborghini. A new photo mode will also let you grab photos of your favorite vehicles in action.

Microsoft also unveiled a new wireless XBOX 360 racing wheel and pedal controller that should help aspiring racers handle that nasty corkscrew at Laguna Seca. Look for Forza 2 and the new racing wheel to ship around November of this year. – [Jeff James]