In a nutshell: Builders are at all times pushing for extra realism in sim racing, but it surely’s not nearly larger shows or greater resolutions. Positive, equipment like steering wheels and kit shifters can promote the phantasm of being behind the wheel. However generally immersion comes from nailing the tiny particulars like feeling the rumble of tires pounding the pavement – or catching that rush of wind in case you’re cruising in an open-cockpit racer. That is doubtless what accent maker Nitro Ideas had in thoughts when it determined to switch its E-Racer simulator setup.
The corporate added a set of blowers on both facet of the racing wheel to generate directional airflow throughout drives. It then showcased the setup at CES 2025, the place the parents at PC Gamer stumbled upon it and delivered an illuminating hands-on impression. Initially, they have been skeptical that small followers may convincingly simulate the feeling of pace. Nevertheless, as soon as they began tearing round tracks like Spa-Francorchamps in a racing recreation, these doubts disappeared.
“One thing in my internal mind is best tricked into feeling like I am touring at excessive pace with the ‘wind’ hitting my face,” famous Jacob Ridley from the publication gleefully. Contributing to that feeling of realism was the truth that the followers intelligently ramped up and down their depth to match the on-screen car’s velocity.
The sense of pace is a much-discussed consider racing video games. It is why driving alongside the open roads of Los Santos in GTA V can really feel exhilaratingly quick, regardless that most automobiles are capped at simply 125 mph. Because it seems, replicating that thrilling sensation comes right down to a number of parts: subject of view, movement blur, sound results, and digicam shake.
Now, it appears we will add wind to the equation, too.
PC Gamer famous that whereas wind simulation may not be completely practical for closed-cockpit vehicles, it nonetheless heightened the sense of route and enhanced the general expertise.
Past immersion, the report advised that wind may additionally assist cut back nausea for VR racers. The directional airflow could trick the mind into extra precisely registering perceived movement, assuaging the disconnect that usually causes movement illness. Oh, and let’s not overlook probably the most sensible advantages – these followers ought to assist guarantee you do not find yourself smelling like you have not showered in days after a racing marathon.
In the event you’re desperate to get your fingers on one in all these wind sims, you may need to attend. Particulars on its availability are nonetheless below wraps. Nevertheless, Nitro Ideas’ LED controller and haptic cushions are already accessible on the corporate’s web site for $50 and $1,000, respectively.
When the rig does hit the market, perhaps pairing it with GameScent automated scent atomizer will actually seal the deal – bringing the aroma of burning rubber or exhaust fumes alongside.
