Sony announced today that the highly anticipated appetizer of Gran Turismo 5 is shipping today to retailers in North America. Gran Turismo 5: Prologue for the Sony PS3 will be available for download from the Playstation Store starting this Thursday April 17th.

The Blu-ray version of GT5: Prologue will include an exclusive behind-the-scenes HD video feature called "Beyond the Apex," offering a closer look at the franchise's history. Both versions are available for a recommended retail price of $39.99. Amazon.com takes orders and expects to ship the Blu-ray version of Gran Turismo 5: Prologue on the 17th.
The game features over 60 licensed cars from makers like Ferrari, Audi and Nissan. Graphics will be full 1080p and up to 16 racers will be able to race on the same track online.
The North American version of Gran Turismo 5 Prologue also features an edgy and exclusive soundtrack that mixes an aesthetic audio blending of indie dance rock, electronica, classic rock and new remixes by some of today's hottest recording artists such as Weezer, The Mars Volta, DJ Shadow and Justice.
The soundtrack will provide North American racing fans with a High Definition (HD) audio experience to complement Gran Turismo 5 Prologue's stunning HD visuals.
Visit the official Gran Turismo site for more details on the PS3 car racing game.

The Logitech Gran Tursimo Wheel for the Sony PS3 is shipping on April 30th. So you have to drive two weeks with your SIXAXIS controller. The Logitech Driving Force GT Racing Wheel is available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $149.99.