2nd Op By

Chi Kong Lui 9.0 RATING

I may not have been a big R/C hobbyist like Dale was growing up, but that didnt stop me from appreciating the Hand Held Racing Wheel for what it is; a work of master craftsmanship for racing games. To say that I enjoyed using this controller would be an understatement. I was incredibly thrilled and completely enamored with the Racing Wheel as it has risen to the ranks of one of my most treasured pieces of gaming hardware. I see myself using this controller for almost all driving games (that support analog controls) in the past, present and future.

To be more specific, I loved the space-age curvy look and sturdy feel of the construction. It should also be considered a mark of achievement that the design is able to facilitate all the full features of the regular steering wheel at the compact size of slightly bulkier game pad. Furthermore, I was thoroughly impressed by the controllers comfortable all around grip, the steering wheels precise twisting motion and the triggers smooth dual action pull and push. And, unlike Dale, the button placement didnt really bother me (though I can understand how it may bother others). One thing I disagree with Dale on is the placement of the four L and R buttons near the steering wheel. It's physically impossible for those buttons to be manipulated in conjunction with the steering wheel, but I think that that was by design. Those buttons are mainly extraneous buttons that are used more in motionless situations such as during stoppage or for menus.

Despite all of my raves, youll notice that I did not rate the Racing Wheel with our highest allowed score. This was mainly do to some forgivable flaws like the poor electric shaver feel of the vibration and the lack of built-in adjustable sensitivity (sensitivity can only be adjusted through software). Some other notable faults like the pinkie button that broke during testing (Mad Catz did, however, assure us that this was an isolated situation) and incompatibilities with games that didnt support steering wheel functionality also resulted in a minor point deduction.

Still, I kid you not when I say that this is one of the most incredible pieces of gaming hardware by my watch and anyone who likes the sound of its features, should not hesitate in picking one up. Make no mistake; this is a glowing recommendation.

Reader Second Opinions