The latest addition to the esports world is sim racing, aka racing simulators. The craze has spread worldwide, and people are lining up outside gaming arenas to try their hands at sim racing. Whether it be with a group of friends or colleagues, racing simulators are sure to give you an adrenaline rush!
What is Sim Racing?
Car simulators or racing simulators are also known as sim racing. It is the concept of virtual racing taking place on a virtual track.
Sim racing is a type of gaming, but the focus is more on winning than on simply having fun. The idea is to imitate racing by practising actual driving with a wheel, pedal, and some form of seat or rig, as the name would imply.
Old School Sim Racing
Racing games were pick-up-and-play forms of amusement and would be seen in arcades back in the day. Such games include picking your favourite vehicle and racing it on a track. The car would collide with a few other vehicles, traffic signs, or other obstacles, and all players had fun. You would play the following games:
- Gamepads,
- Keyboards,
- Steering wheels,
- Pedals
The Modern Sim Racing
A racing simulator elevates the concept of driving to a far more serious and in-depth level. A simulator produces the most accurate picture of driving dynamics by simulating real-world physics factors like
- Tire grip,
- Traction,
- Suspension geometry,
- Aerodynamics,
- And more
Today, racing simulators have combined with the advancement of virtual reality (VR). Players are now seated behind the wheel of the virtual car when sim racing is included.
It gives players the impression of actually racing on a track. The car leans as you turn and jump over curbs when combined with motion platforms. It is possible to create a wind simulation and other natural forces that come into play while racing.
Racing virtually has now become hyper-realistic. Professional racers and drivers practice on racing simulators, and F1 racers take to sim racing to polish their skills.
Why are Racing Simulators Popular?
The rise of sim racing popularity is dependent on these factors.
Cost
One of the major factors is cost. Getting everything you need to operate your simulator seems fairly pricey, especially if you plan to buy some high-end hardware.
On the other hand, if you go sim racing at any racing arena or gaming hubs equipped with racing simulators, the only fee you would spend would be the simulator usage bill. Rising prices of vehicle fuel do not affect virtual car simulators. Hours of driving fun at a minimal cost.
Safety
Since you are not driving in actual traffic, there is no chance of accidents. You can go as fast or as slow as you want. Racing simulators help you drive in a controlled environment. If you end up hitting a barrier, just reset and start again. Actual driving but without the negative consequences.
Education
Driving schools use car simulators as a way to educate. Professional racing teams use sim racing to polish their skills. Most top-tier racing teams will have a facility they use for their drivers or their simulator.
Time
You can organize racing competitions around your hectic schedule using a simulator. Within five minutes of clicking the power button on your PC, or even less if you are currently using it, you may be sitting in the pitlane and prepared to take the track.
Conclusion
Sim racing is, without a doubt, the most accessible method of motorsport, regardless of whether you are an F1 World Champion or a driving novice. A racing simulator in a gaming hub enhances its real-life counterpart in a way no other E-sport does.
