Are computer car racing games your passion, or are you perhaps just starting out on your esports journey? Whatever stage you’re at, you’re sure to be interested in sim racing, which lets you immerse yourself fully in racing, taking it to a whole new level.
In today’s article, we’ll explain how it differs from ordinary computer games and what equipment you’ll need to build your first simulation setup.
Sim racing is another way of saying car racing simulation. Unlike ordinary computer games, what matters here is not just entertainment, but also as close to realism as possible and the conditions found on real race tracks.
As a result, sim racing lets you feel like a rally driver, and all this in a completely safe way and in the comfort of your own home. It also allows you to hone skills that are useful when racing on real tracks – simulations are used as part of training programmes in professional rally teams.
Sounds good? If so, now’s the time to answer the most important questions: how to get started, and, above all, how much does it cost?
A key element of car racing simulations is the aim to replicate as faithfully as possible the conditions encountered during real-life races on the track. That is why equipment is extremely important in this e-sport discipline. In addition to standard software, a console or a computer, equipment such as steering wheel, pedals, gearbox and handbrake. These will also come in handy additional monitors or televisions. The three displays most commonly used are those that effectively simulate the field of view inside a car.
The key to effective racing is secure mounting of the handlebars and pedals. They should not move whilst driving, thus providing an experience just like in a real racing cockpit.
Of course, you can start your adventure with simulations using a standard armchair and desk. However, a steering wheel attached to the desk top usually does not provide sufficient stability. Furthermore, when using a swivel chair or a standard chair for gaming, there is a risk that they will simply shift during dynamic driving. In such cases, it is difficult to maintain a consistent distance between the chair and the desk, as well as to ensure consistency in the setup of your equipment.
For this reason, a stand – made from metal tubes – is a good choice racing steering wheel mount, the pedals, and the gearbox.
A good stand is characterised by adequate rigidity and stability, ensuring that the steering accessories always remain in the correct position. Non-slip rubber feet ensure that the steering wheel does not move, even during dynamic driving. Once you’ve finished playing handlebars stand It can be folded away, meaning that virtual motorsport can be enjoyed even in small rooms.
An alternative to the stand is full racing cockpit, i.e. a frame with a seat and space for monitors, gearboxes, pedals and other equipment. This setup takes up more space in the room than handlebars stand, but it does have other advantages – it allows you to keep the equipment in a fixed position and gives you the chance to feel as though you’re in a real car.
Sim racing isn’t exactly a cheap hobby, but it doesn’t require a large initial investment. Apart from a computer and control accessories, the cost of setting up a virtual motorsport rig can be kept to just a few hundred zlotys for a steering wheel mount. Over time, the set-up can be expanded by adding more equipment.
Whatever equipment you choose, it’s worth bearing in mind that this is usually a purchase that will last for several years.
