Racing Game Controllers

Racing video games have been around for a long time, and they have evolved with the advent of the analog controller. Originally, racing games that utilized digital controllers only had one level of gas control. Either the gas was being floored or it was completely released. Additionally, the steering was limited to left, right, or straight. This does not bode well for racing games that are attempting to create a realistic, immersive experience.



Fortunately, the use of an analog stick on the Nintendo 64 controller allowed for multiple degrees of freedom when steering. Eventually Sony released its original Dual-Shock controller that contained two analogue sticks which allowed for even further control over the steering. Unfortunately, gas was an all or nothing affair.



With the Dual-Shock 2 controller, Sony implemented analogue buttons in addition to the sticks. This allowed the user to control the flow of gas with more precision. An even greater step towards a realistic driving experience was made with the "trigger" style controls used on the top of the Dreamcast and Xbox controllers. This not only gives the player control, but it also simulates the movement and force feedback from the gas pedal.



Of course, to simulate a real racing experience, a quality racing wheel is needed. Some of the better racing wheels not only come with pedals, they also include a gear shifter and force feedback from the wheel. A more hardcore setup can even include multiple monitors, a fixed chair, and a sound system.



Motion controls have also made for an interesting advancement in racing controls. The Wiimote has been used as a steering wheel in games such as Mario Kart. Holding the Wiimote sideways while rotating it like a steering wheel is one way to simulate the rotation without the need for extra controllers. Project Natal is even being used to simulate the racing experience without the use of extra peripherals. One of the Project Natal demos involves playing the game Burnout: Paradise with no controller. You simply move your left and right feet to step on the gas and brake, move your hands through the air to steer, and reach down with one hand to shift. While this has the definite advantage of not requiring any extra peripherals or setup, it also lacks the feedback of being able to feel the wheel as you turn it. Reports have said that the motion controls feel natural, so it may be a good alternative for those not willing to clutter up their room with extra gear.