[Christien]

Jim, have you tried rFactor? As I understand it's supposed to be the best simulator out there. It calculates all the physics of the car and road, including suspension, tires, body roll, etc. I really enjoy it in the off-season when we're blanketed in snow, esp. because a very good rendition of my home track (Mosport) is available. It takes some getting used to (first few laps were all crashes!) but it's very realistic once you're used to it.

I haven't played forza 2 yet, but I've heard it's a completely different animal than forza 1. Supposed to be the most advanced physics engine for the most realism, etc.

The problem I've found with all simulators or games is that there's not lateral forces applied to your body in a turn, which really distances you from the game/simulator. It's not just a fun-factor - I think your brain responds differently when what you see doesn't correspond to what you feel, and you therefore drive differently, maybe correcting your turn-in arc, because you don't feel your body shift, whereas your angle may have been fine to begin with, for example.