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From: pjgtech@cix.compulink.co.uk ("Peter Gagg")
Subject: Re: Formula racers ultimate setup? - reply
Message-ID: <F8rBD2.25B@cix.compulink.co.uk>
Organization: n/a
References: <19990316203138.18281.00000214@ng95.aol.com>
Date: Wed, 17 Mar 1999 20:53:25 GMT
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Xref: news.jprc.com rec.autos.simulators:80703

In article <19990316203138.18281.00000214@ng95.aol.com>, 
pnjnca@aol.com (PnJnCA) wrote:

> I plan to surprise my husband (who had a blast Formula racing back 
> in the 70's)
> with a great setup to go racing in his den.

Wow, what a Wife......Do you have a Sister?

8-) Sorry, but I *had* to ask......
 
> His computer skills are at the beginner level, but he's no slouch 
> at learning,
> has great hand-eye coordination, excellent motor skills and will be 
> thrilled if
> there is anything that could be set up to decently approximate real 
> racing.  

GPL is the *best* there is at the moment, no doubt at all. But, it is 
*very* difficult to learn to drive correctly (smooth and fast), and if 
he is a real novice, he may find it a tad difficult and therefore be 
put off after a shortwhile. All I can say is tell him you asked here, 
(where else would you ask anyway!) and it was heartily recommended, 
and he needs to practice, practice, and then practice some more (does 
he have a *lot* of free time?)

> I would sure appreciate any pointers on the ideal setup that would 
> blow his
> mind.  
> I see force feedback equipment in the stores, but which is best?

Personally I'de steer clear of FF at the moment, its still in its 
infancy and hasn't yet got anywhere near its potential? (Just my 
opinion). Your money would be better spent on a good quality wheel and 
pedal set-up, say an ECCI (Extreme Competition Controls Inc) or TSW 
(Thomas Super Wheel) or an F1 Sim or a Hyper stimulator (just search 
on the net for more info). Beware, all the above cost *lots* of money, 
but are well worth the extra and very reliable and well built, and 
your Husband will appreciate the *feel* they give.

> Is there a gaming magazine or review sites where I can check out 
> equipment
> reviews that anyone highly recommends?  

Not really, not for *serious* sims, which seems to be what you are 
aiming for? Most PC mags are too *arcade* orientated? Your much better 
off asking in here.....    8-)

> Currently connected by 
> modem, is that
> good enough?

For on-line gaming? sure, GPL can be raced on-line (up to 20 human 
opponents) via a modem. Check the VROC (Search the net) site for more 
info. 

> A PII 450 on the way for him ...currently with a Diamond Viper 550 
> 16MB (better
> suggestion?).

GPL is excellent with both *Rendition* and *3Dfx* type cards, a 12MB 
3Dfx Voodoo2 card is also a great choice for *most* other games too?

> I am comfortable and familiar with computers, but 
> know
> absolutely nothing about gaming so could really use some help.

Also consider the rest of the PC system:

A *large* monitor is great for games, especially racing sims, say 17" 
minimum? (SVGA of course with say 0.26 dot pitch)

A *large* fast hard disk is also essential, not only for data and 
*normal* programs, but most newer games take up a lot of space too? 
say 6 to 8 Gb minimum? (Either SCSI or Ultra DMA drive).

A good sound system adds an awful lot to any games. A Soundblaster 128 
or *Live* card with a decent pair of speakers (or better still four 
speakers!) and a sub woofer will sound great. (Or you can also get 
good results by connecting your sound card to your own existing stereo 
system?)

A fast CD (or better still DVD) drive will also aid games playing, as 
well as *normal* applications? Say a x32 speed cd, or x5 DVD player.

As an alternative to GPL, try Nascar Racing2 or Indy Car Racing2 
(oldies but good) or Formula 1 Grand prix 2 (even older but very good, 
but no network or modem racing) or Formula 1 Racing Simulator or 
Monaco Racing Simulator 2 (Basically the same sim?) If rallying is 
your Husbands thing, try Colin McRae Rally (excellent, but sometimes 
difficult to get running?)


More *arcade* type driving games include TOCA Touring cars (excellent) 
or Motorhead or Screamer Rally.

However, if he was a Formula 1 nut (of any description) and you want 
the *best* for him, GPL has the lot, order your copy NOW!!! 

8-)

*Peter*   #:-)
