Simraceway - Getting Behind the Wheel

While I have been a gamer for a long time now, I am slowly in the process of moving from platform-based games over to more "adult" gaming in a PC-based environment such as simraceway. While platform-based titles are very novel in nature and feature a variety of simple and fun titles, I am learning the big boys play on their PCs. It should be noted that we PC gamers tend to operate on full functional gaming rigs replete with a variety of peripherals to take game-play to the next level.

A standard gaming rig for simulation-based racing games includes a variety of essential components:

• A cockpit that resembles that of an F1, Nascar, or street racer

• A steering will with force-feedback

• Pedals (clutch, gas, break) usually of steel construction

• A gear shift knob (variable gear offering by car type)

• Mounts to support up to 3 equal size monitors

As such, the costs can be quite high, many approaching upwards of $5k. While these costs can easily be avoided by getting parts here and there and creating your own rig, the outcome is rarely as engaging as an out of the box rig.

In addition to have a high-performance rig, you will need a pretty high-performance computer to really enjoy all that simulation based racing has to offer. The performance you need is unlikely to be found in a laptop outside of high-priced models from Alienware. As such, you will likely find yourself either building something custom or buying a top of the line model from the likes of Dell or HP. Here are some basic requirements to keep an eye open for when choosing or building your back-end technology:

• 2 GB RAM (operating memory) - you can use less, but you will regret it

• 16 GB available disk space and another 20 to 30 GB if you plan on running applications

• 7200 RPM Drive

• 4 Gig video card

• 5mb internet connection

Once you have your rig and your computer ready to go, you can play on virtually any online SIM racing platform assuming you have an account, a credit card and your wife's permission!