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Taking gaming to a new level

A keen gamer test-drives Logitech`s Driving Force Pro force feedback wheel and Extreme 3D Pro joystick.
By Arshad Mahomed, ITWeb contributor
Johannesburg, 25 May 2005

The force feedback gaming wheel from Logitech has arrived ... but how does it perform?

The wheel certainly looks and feels like the real thing, enhancing gameplay and taking racing gaming to another level.

The racing game genre is getting a lot more attention lately and is constantly expanding, with the games themselves becoming more than just games. The quality of graphics and sound has become so advanced that gamers expect highly advanced peripherals too, to complete the gaming experience.

Numerous attempts have been made to create the ultimate highly advanced driving wheel for gaming, and the original Driving Force by Logitech for the PlayStation 2 is arguably the finest example of performance and craftsmanship, offering the most authentic driving experience for video games.

Logitech has implemented the R1, R2, L1, L2, Start, and Select buttons in a very comfortable and usable configuration on the wheel, giving the user total control and functionality.

The gear-shifting paddles on the underside of the wheel have a "long throw`" but you`ll know when you`ve reached the end of their motion when you hear an audible "clunk". The paddles are firm and will handle normal wear and tear. The stick shift on the Driving Force also makes for easy gear changes.

The wheel is versatile in that it can be fixed to almost any flat surface with two simple clamps or used with an optional lap attachment to allow you to sit back in your couch and drive.

Although the force can be adjusted, this wheel can produce twice the force of the Driving Force or GT Force wheels. If you use 100% of the feedback available, you can feel every bump and dip, and any force related to your tyres.

The wheel offers one of the most realistic driving experiences available in gaming, with a 24-watt force feedback motor, built-in paddles and a sequential shifter for people looking for more control. Advancements to this wheel include a 900-degree turning radius, supported by Gran Turismo 4.

The box contents of the Driving Force Pro:

1x Driving Force Pro Wheel
1x Driving Force Pro Pedal Set
1x Driving Force Pro Power Cable

With the invention of the driving force, pro-gamers can expect a far superior hands-on race. A bit difficult to use at first, but once you get used to it, you`ll find it very hard to go back to the controller. So is it worth buying? Yes. Does it change the gaming experience? Certainly. So if you can afford it, should you buy it? Definitely.

Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick

Adding to the fun, the Logitech 3D Pro Joystick features 12 fully programmable buttons for flexibility and performance and a precise twist handle with an 8-way rubber hat switch. Throttle controls rotate smoothly for extraordinary control and a rapid-fire trigger allows for shots fired in quick succession.

No matter what your simulation, this Logitech joystick will give you maximum control with minimum hassle. Supporting left and right-handed game play, wrap both hands around the comfortable handle, and be on your way to precise control and gaming pleasure

When the pressure is on, your stick performance is the difference between victory and total oblivion. This is a well-designed peripheral device that enhances gaming pleasure.

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