If you ever played Papyrus’ seminal Grand Prix Legends then you’ve read his name. Rich began working as a tester on NASCAR Racing (1994) and was with Papyrus at the end. In this interview, published in 2022, we discuss his time at the legendary studio and the design of Grand Prix Legends, including initial feelings of hurt at not being asked to join iRacing.
As a direct ancestor of iRacing, the ‘Grand Prix Legends engine’ had multiple stock car racing false starts, before eventually releasing as NASCAR Racing 4. The original NASCAR 3, cancelled and replaced by one that used NASCAR 2’s engine, is barely remembered.
At the 2023 SimRacing Expo this weekend Fanatec have announced the all-new ClubSport DD and DD+. The ClubSport DD is the first all-new ClubSport Wheel Base since 2011 and features 12 Nm of torque (15Nm in the DD+) with Direct Drive.
For PlayStation support, Fanatec announce the DD+, their first PlayStation-licensed ClubSport Wheel Base that can still be used on Xbox with an attached Xbox wheel rim.
The ClubSport DD can be pre-ordered now and will begin shipping in November. The DD+ version should be available to pre-order soon.
ClubSport DD Wheel Base
• Direct Drive servo motor custom-designed in Germany specifically for sim racing.
• 12 Nm consistent torque.
• FullForce technology for super low-latency detail effects.
• Most thermally stable wheel base in its class.
• Highest slew rate (a measure of motor responsiveness) in its class.
• Designed for QR2 from the ground-up (easy QR1 downgrade possible – optional accessory available
shortly).
• Designed for Windows PC, becomes Xbox compatible when used with an Xbox-licensed Steering
Wheel.
• New ClubSport DD Table Clamp also available separately
• Full metal clamp
• Supports ClubSport DD, ClubSport DD+, CSL DD, Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Bases• Availability:
• Pre-orders in all regions from 13.10.23
• Estimated shipping date starting 7.11.23• Pricing:
• EU: 699.95€
• US: $699.95
• AUS: A$1229.95
• JP: ¥92,900
ClubSport DD+
• Direct Drive servo motor custom-designed in Germany specifically for sim racing.
• PlayStation licensed.
• 15 Nm consistent torque.
• FullForce technology for super low-latency detail effects.
• Most thermally stable wheel base in its class.
• Highest slew rate (a measure of motor responsiveness) in its class.
• Designed for QR2 from the ground-up (easy QR1 downgrade possible – optional accessory
available shortly).
• PlayStation and PC compatibility out of the box, also becomes Xbox compatible when used
with an Xbox-licensed Steering Wheel.• Availability:
• Pre-orders starting soon.• Pricing:
• EU: 999.95€
• US: $999.95
• AUS: A$1649.95
• JP: ¥133,600
Press release:
Fanatec introduces its most advanced ClubSport Wheel Bases ever for PC and PlayStation*
The all-new ClubSport DD delivers consistent torque performance, super-fast response, and remarkably fine detail.
Landshut, October 17, 2023, 3:30pm CEST – Fanatec is thrilled to announce the expansion of its famous ClubSport line to include an all-new 12 Nm Direct Drive Wheel Base, available for pre-order now. A ClubSport DD+ with 15 Nm torque and PlayStation compatibility will launch soon*.Renowned for bringing Direct Drive Technology to the masses over a decade ago, Fanatec has changed the landscape of sim racing. Direct Drive has now become the industry standard, though not all Direct Drive systems are created equally. Decades of experience with force feedback technology have led to the ClubSport DD – a fully optimised Wheel Base that delivers class-leading performance.
Compatible with the entire Fanatec ecosystem and all major racing games, the ClubSport Direct Drive Wheel Base is the epitome of high-tech realism, and stellar performance in sim racing.
The ClubSport DD is built for Windows PC, and is compatible with Xbox using an Xbox-licensed Fanatec wheel.
The ClubSport Direct Drive is released with FullForce. FullForce is a new and revolutionary force feedback protocol tailored specifically for FANATEC® Direct Drive. Leveraging the instantaneous response of the motor and zero backlash of direct drive technology, FullForce generates high-frequency vibrations for a new level of immersive gaming. Feel the engine revs, and details of the road surface like never before. Only FullForce gives you the full experience of driving a race car.
The ClubSport DD reduces torque and provides crystal-clear force feedback information at all times thanks to the sophisticated motor design incorporating Fanatec’s patented FluxBarrier technology, boosting efficiency and smoothness. Engineered to meet strict cooling requirements, the ClubSport DD is the most thermally stable Wheel Base in its class. Its outstanding thermal performance and consistent torque stability enables racers to trust the information they receive through the wheel and train their muscle memory to become a better driver.
The ClubSport DD was designed from the ground up with QR2 (next-generation Quick Release) in mind. The QR electronics module is now fully integrated with the shaft, significantly improving its strength.
With Fanatec’s most advanced ClubSport Wheel Base ever, sim racers can feel like they’re right there on the track, driving the race of a lifetime.
The ClubSport DD – Direct drive the right way.
Pre-order now on Fanatec.com
END
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About Fanatec
Based in Landshut, Germany, Endor AG and its Fanatec brand produce innovative, high-performance input devices for PC and consoles, specialising in force feedback steering systems, pedals, and complete cockpits. Partnering with the F1 Esports Series, Fanatec is in a unique position to strengthen and support this rapidly growing sector of gaming. For more information, visit fanatec.com
*The ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base is developed under the official licensing program for PlayStation® and will work with PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®4 subject to Sony Interactive Entertainment’s final product approval.
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