So many articles are out there for folks who have money to burn, a technology deathwish with PCs and enough space to build what can only be described as a racing sex cage. Not so many for gentlefolk who a. have a car to go out in when they want and b. aren't ruled by technology...
And in that land is consoles. Recently a good friend asked me for advice (ha!) so here it is...
I'll start with the easier bits (scroll to the bottom for a shortcut):
Console
Get a PS4 Pro. I like them, they're pretty well priced and some of the racing games really benefit from the beefier processor. Also, can do HDR and 4K TV unlike it's older cousin.
Games
Somewhat personal preference but if you're going to race with "my crew" (of two) then:
And in that land is consoles. Recently a good friend asked me for advice (ha!) so here it is...
I'll start with the easier bits (scroll to the bottom for a shortcut):
Console
Get a PS4 Pro. I like them, they're pretty well priced and some of the racing games really benefit from the beefier processor. Also, can do HDR and 4K TV unlike it's older cousin.
Games
Somewhat personal preference but if you're going to race with "my crew" (of two) then:
- Project Cars 2 - and all the DLC via PSN is easiest. This is our go-to racing game, the one we play most when it comes to competitive racing.
- Assetto Corsa - and all the DLC via PSN. We do play this, and if we have enough mates online (4+) then we'll fire this up as it's actually, in our opinion, the better game. For pure driving experience I think it can't be beaten on the PS4.
- WRC7 - if you're wanting a rally game this is a very accessible start point. Dirt Rally (not Dirt 4) is a Rally Sim, but unless your name starts with Petter, Stig or Sebastian then edge into rallying slowly (or sideways I suppose!).
Steering wheel
We use G29's with a pedal spring upgrade. This is fine but given a little more budget and I'd plump for the T300RS or similar from Thrustmaster.
Nicer wheel...
I'd upgrade the pedals right off too (and keep the spare set)
Must have a gear selector
Whilst your budget is blown out of the water...
Racing Seat
Check JB HiFi and friends, but this isn't a bad price for a folding seat...
TV
Most of us have a TV. I will say that a 4k HDR TV and a decent HDMI cable is a good thing for the PS4 Pro. But you know, anything will do! Bigger is better.
Sound
Surround sound is not a bad call.
If you're using a stereo (no headphones) then you'll need this
Single ear and this one as other ones get a sweaty ear. This set is designed for glasses, so there's a gap, lets airflow which is a bonus.
If you've not got surround sound, others use this sort of solution
Don't underestimate the value of hearing a car's mid-engine growling behind you...
Virtual Reality
For the PS4 there's not much in gaming land at the moment. Get the kit wherever, and the racing games that are available are:
- GT Sport - well executed. Only 1:1 races though. But probably best on the PS4 at the moment. I don't like the game, but that's mostly practice.
- Dirt Rally - apparently good for VR. Full on experience.
- Driveclub - I like the game, but many complain that this is vomit inducing due to clipping etc on scenery (your brain can't process the mess!) It's an old game now though too.
So lost....
Give https://www.pagnianimports.com.au/ a call and tell them what you want. A premium, but cheaper than a garage full of bits that don't work together!
They do kits too: PS4 Kit This is super simple and probably 90% of the above if not more.
Final word...
My mates and I aren't the fastest out there (well one of us is, dammit) and for someone entering the genre, we'd just pick slower cars. A bit of practice and sim racing is a rewarding sport that can bring much joy, albeit without the burnt oil smell!
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