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Sim gaming is a popular hobby among enthusiasts. From racing to aviation, as a gamer, you can experience what it’s like to be a real-life pilot in an exciting race, either offline or online, along with thousands of other hobbyists.
With numerous options available, you may feel overwhelmed by the initial time and expense required for equipment and software. This guide will help you set up an entry-level racing rig and introduce you to the world of Sim Racing!
The Sim Racing Experience
I joined the sim racing hobby in 2023, when I discovered the HORI Mario Kart Racing Pro Deluxe Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8. I found that the wheel was compatible with other games, such as Gear Club Unlimited 2. I was hooked, to say the least; yet, I gradually delved into more professional gear and simulation games.
To experience sim racing, you need to invest in equipment like a PC gaming system, which lets you play racing simulators such as iRacing and others. For this guide, we will focus on the PlayStation 5 console, though. Many racing sim games are available for this system, including Gran Turismo 7, GRID, F1 Series, and Assetto Corsa Competizione.
Another reason we will use the PS5 is related to its hardware; some steering wheels are compatible with the console, and they can also be used with PCs if you want to upgrade to PC racing.
This guide should steer you to build an entry-level racing gig, no pun intended!
Budget Racing Wheel
Besides having a PlayStation 5 to run your sim racing rig, you’ll need a steering wheel. There are several options for the PS5, including the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro and the Thrustmaster T-GT II. I upgraded from my HORI Mario Kart Wheel to the Logitech G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel (Amazon – $326.54).
Released over 10 years ago, the G29 (or the G920 for the Xbox) remains highly popular and is an excellent entry-level steering wheel and brake pedal combo. This wheel features a hand-stitched leather grip, stainless steel paddle shifters, and dual-motor force feedback.
The board features metal pedals for the brake, accelerator, and clutch on a plastic base. Some sim enthusiasts say that the pedal board doesn’t feel “realistic.” You can adjust this through software with the Logitech Hub App or by physical modifications.
The Logitech G29 Steering Wheel is an excellent way to begin with a racing simulation controller, offering features and compatibility with the PS5 and Windows PCs.
Logitech also offers the G Driving Force Shifter as an optional accessory for those wanting to simulate a manual transmission shift lever. It’s a valuable addition, and you can upgrade the knob to a real auto shift knob.
Racing Cockpit Options
Now that you have your racing wheel, you’ll be ready to start playing your first sim racing game. For the most part, you can set the G29 steering wheel on a desk using the included clamps. The drawback is that this setup isn’t very realistic.
When I started in the hobby, I found the DIWANGUS Racing Wheel Stand. It allowed me to set up the G29 and pedal board on the wheel stand using the included hardware. You can tilt the wheel base and the attached pedal board to the optimal angle.
The only downside is that the chair isn’t included. You’ll need to find a stable chair that doesn’t shift or tip when you apply the brakes firmly.
Recently, I upgraded to the Next Level Racing GT Lite Foldable Racing Cockpit. I was happy because it is lightweight and can be folded with the wheel and pedal board for easy storage.
The GT Lite comes with detailed instructions and all the necessary hardware for a simple setup. You will be able to drive comfortably and with ease.
Budget Audio Options
By now, you have your entry-level steering wheel, pedal set, and racing cockpit. This setup is great for practicing at the Monza Circuit Raceway with top GT-Racing cars. Of course, you can also use the latest soundbar for your TV to listen to the engine and get your adrenaline flowing. That’s when your loved one yells at you to quiet down the noise. Womp womp!
The good thing is that you have options to play silently while you race. Any gaming headset with a dongle can do a great job if you already own one.
If you don’t have a headset, consider the Logitech G435 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset. It’s a lightweight headset that feels comfortable and doesn’t cost too much. It might not be the best-sounding, but as an entry-level option, it’s a good addition to your setup.
Now, if you want a better quality set that doesn’t break the bank, you can try the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3P Wireless Headset. For $109.99, you get a solid headphones with a microphone attachment. It sounds excellent, and it includes hundreds of EQ presets based on actual games. I use the Gran Turismo preset, and it is a fantastic audio element.
Recommended Games and Apps
Now, you have everything you need to start the Sim Racing hobby. This should cost around $700.00 plus tax. It is an investment, but some rigs can cost over $1,000.00 or more. Of course, you’ll also need games to drive and apps that provide telemetry data, giving you real-time information.
- Race Dash – Telemetry data for the iPhone. This allows you to monitor the car’s condition, speed, tachometer, and other live information that you can use while racing.
- Gran Turismo 7 is one of the most significant and recognizable sim racing games for the PlayStation console.
- F1 Series – If you want to race Lando Norris in an exotic location with the fastest cars, this is the game for you.
- GRID – More of an arcade racer, it brings a lot of fun thrills in a fantastic racing game.
- Project Cars 2 – An excellent sim game with a wide variety of cars and realistic physics.
- Assetto Corsa Competizione is one of the most realistic and challenging racing sims. GT-Racing at its finest. You need to be very precise and perform at your best, but achieving your best time is a remarkable accomplishment.
Conclussion
Sim Racing is a gratifying hobby that requires practice and dedication. With these recommendations, you can start with an affordable racing rig and then upgrade to more advanced and professional technology later.
Remember that an expensive racing rig doesn’t make you the fastest driver, but a budget rig will get you started and help you get into this fantastic hobby.
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