PC video Racing game/simulations?

[Ray_73Turkis_OH]

Years ago I had the IndyCar series game with a steering wheel for a PC.

It was great fun, especially getting to run on tracks I had driven on for BMW drivers schools (Mid-Ohio and Watkins Glenn).

I was thinking of dedicating an old PC to a racing set up.

Would anyone here have an recommendations for a PC based game.

[Shad]

I've heard good things about GT Legends for the PC, but it might be anitquated by now. I gave up trying to keep up with the PC platform and switched to console game units. I purpose built my entertainment center into a dedicated driving simulator using xbox 360 as the platform. I mounted my old Corbeau passenger seat on a pedestal added a 27" TV at eye level while seated and integrated the pedals into the woodwork. The TV above lets me watch the news etc. while driving. The wheel rests in my lap when in use. Forza 1, 2, & 3 and F1 2010 have delivered untold hours of enjoyment.

Be careful though: day can turn into night then back into day without notice if you get hooked.

have fun!

-s

[williamggruff]

rFactor seems to be pretty good, and several models of the BMW 2002 and 3 series are available.

Here's a clip of a box-flared roundie on Nordschleife in the snow. Graphics are pretty amazing. Not certain about the physics model, but reviews of the game indicate it's pretty good, and won't require you to have a liquid-nitrogen-cooled CRAY in the basement to enjoy it. I also understand that the game supports most common steering wheel and pedal setups. Since I've never actually driven a car that used a joystick or hand controller as an interface for the steering and pedals, I prefer to use a steering and pedal setup to keep things somewhat realistic.

Good luck!

Grice

[esty]

The TV above lets me watch the news etc. while driving.

-s

driving while watching the tube isn't safe...you could hurt someone

[KFunk]

The TV above lets me watch the news etc. while driving.

-s

driving while watching the tube isn't safe...you could hurt someone

Sometimes I like to get drunk and drive on Gran Turismo 5!

After many years with PCs.. I've switched to a PS3 for gaming needs. The new systems are quite amazing in their capabilities, and there's far less hassle than a computer. It's weird that there's a whole lot more setup needed to install games now, but it's still way better than the hassle of a computer.

[Shad]

Good advice, Esty. So far the body count is minimal. (years ago when I valet parked in San Francisco one of my regulars had a Sony Watchman taped to her steering wheel for "keeping entertained in traffic". So glad I was at work before and after SHE got on the road everyday.)

KFunk - I hate to admit it, but I turned a 6:45 on the Nordschleiffe after a night of cocktails with friends. My line was a bit "loose" to say the least. If they ever hold an Oktoberfest Challenge at the Nurburgring: I'm ready!

[roadhog0]

Test Drive Unlimited 2. It comes out in February and it's pretty sweet!