Microsoft Game Studios announced today that its critically-acclaimed Xbox driving simulator, Forza Motorsport, has shipped to retail stores and is now available wherever videogames are sold for a suggested retail price of $49.99 (U.S.).

One of the most highly anticipated game titles of 2005, Forza Motorsport offers gamers and car enthusiasts the ability to completely transform an ordinary factory car into a speed-drenched racing machine.

The metamorphic process of creating of a fully-equipped racer begins with a choice of more than 230 different models from over 60 of the world’s top car manufacturers including Ferrari, Porsche, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Chevrolet, Mazda and Dodge.

Featuring an unprecedented level of customization, Forza Motorsport gives gearheads the ability to tune-up their rides with performance upgrades including engine swaps, bolt-on superchargers and suspension kits as well as the tools to “trick-out” their creations with sleek new paint schemes, body kits, rims, spoilers, fender flares, scoops and decals from more than 150 aftermarket partners.

Additionally, Forza Motorsport debuts a powerful online racing experience that is certain to take the checkered flag on Xbox Live. With online car clubs, car trading, downloadable ghosts, race replays and car setups and more than 1,400 online leaderboards for competition at any skill level, Forza Motorsport boasts an online garage that sets the standard for all future driving simulators.

To support the inaugural title in the brand’s new racing franchise, Microsoft Game Studios has launched an integrated marketing campaign, which is brought to life with the tagline, “You are what you race.” The multi-tiered campaign consists of both broadcast and print advertising as well as the innovative “Xcelerators” films, which profile the wide range of car cultures in Forza Motorsport.

For more information about Forza Motorsport, or to view the Xcelerators films, please visit www.ForzaMotorsport.net.