Sim racing has exploded in popularity, offering a fun and engaging way to experience the thrill of motorsport. But with so many options available, building your first sim racing setup can be overwhelming. This guide focuses on sim racing tools specifically for Project Cars 2, geared towards those seeking a fun and budget-friendly entry point into the world of virtual racing. We’ll explore the essential components and provide recommendations for a setup that won’t break the bank.
Choosing the Right Platform for Fun Sim Racing
For those primarily interested in casual sim racing, console-based simulators like Project Cars 2 offer an excellent starting point. These platforms prioritize ease of use and immediate gratification, allowing you to jump in and start racing with minimal setup hassle.
Essential Sim Racing Tools for Project Cars 2
While a standard controller can be used, investing in a few key peripherals significantly enhances the sim racing experience in Project Cars 2. Here’s a breakdown of recommended tools:
Steering Wheel and Pedals:
A force feedback wheel and pedal set are crucial for immersive gameplay. Force feedback provides realistic steering resistance, allowing you to feel the car’s behavior and the track surface. Entry-level options from Thrustmaster and Logitech offer a good balance between price and performance. Consider a wheel with at least 900 degrees of rotation for a more authentic driving experience. A pedal set with a clutch pedal adds to the realism and allows for manual gear shifting.
Gaming Console:
Project Cars 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Choose the platform you’re most comfortable with or that best fits your budget.
Display:
A large screen TV or a gaming monitor provides a good visual experience. While triple-screen setups are possible, they are more complex and expensive. For budget-conscious sim racers, a single screen is perfectly adequate.
Advantages of Console Sim Racing for Fun
- Ease of Use: Console setups are generally plug-and-play, making them user-friendly for beginners.
- High-Quality Graphics: Project Cars 2 boasts impressive visuals, delivering a realistic racing environment.
- Wide Selection of Cars and Tracks: Enjoy a diverse range of vehicles and circuits to keep your racing experience fresh.
- Affordable Entry Point: Console-based sim racing generally requires a lower initial investment compared to high-end PC setups.
Limitations to Consider
- Online Racing Quality: The quality of online racing in console games can be inconsistent, with a higher chance of encountering less serious racers.
- Physics and Tire Model: While Project Cars 2 offers a good driving experience, its physics model may not be as sophisticated as some PC-based simulations.
- Limited Upgrade Options: Upgrading individual components like pedals or shifters might be more limited compared to PC sim racing.
Getting Started with a Budget-Friendly Project Cars 2 Setup
A basic setup, excluding the console and TV, can be achieved for under $1000. Look for bundles or sales to further reduce the cost. Prioritize a good quality force feedback wheel and pedal set as they have the biggest impact on the driving experience.
Conclusion: Project Cars 2 – Your Gateway to Sim Racing Fun
Project Cars 2 and a well-chosen set of sim racing tools provide an accessible and enjoyable way to experience the excitement of virtual motorsport. Focusing on a console-based setup offers a balance between cost and performance, allowing you to dive into the action without a steep learning curve or a hefty investment. So, gear up, choose your car, and get ready to hit the virtual track!
