Friday, December 31, 2010

Thrustmaster T500 RS

Thrustmaster has launched a new racing wheel for the PlayStation 3 and the PC, the Thrustmaster T500 RS.

The sequential gear levers mounted on the base feature large 17cm levers that are constantly accessible without letting go of the wheel. The wheel can be rotated to 1080°. Metal Pedal Set is made from 100% metal pedal set with fully adjustable and accommodate individual driving preferences by offering 2 positions “floor-mounted” F1 style, or “suspended” GT style.

The T500 RS employs the same technology developed for the world’s latest benchmark flight stick, the HOTAS WARTHOG™. The magnetic sensor-based H.E.A.R.T HallEffect AccuRate Technology™ is incorporated into the wheel’s steering mechanism.

Thrustmaster T500 RS will be available on January 5 in North America and Europe and on January 25 in Japan, at a suggested retail price of $599.99 / £449.99 / €499.99

Thursday, December 30, 2010

World Super GT 2 – WIP video

Team RMT has released a new preview video of World Super GT 2 mod for rFactor 2. Video is showing modern cars from 2010 series Super GT GT500 and also legendary GT cars from 90's.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

rFactor - Targa Florio new preview video

6e66o has released preview video of legendary race track Targa Florio made for rFactor. This was a practice lap on testday, race session obviously has all the spectators on the side of the road.

Track located on Italian island of Sicily has 72 km, so 6e66o had to split the video into 3 parts. It was originally created for Grand Prix Legends, but the Targa Florio Conversion Team is working on bringing the legendary Italian track to rFactor.

(part 1, part 2, part 3)

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

netKar PRO - Preview Trento-Bondone

Kunos Simulazioni has released new preview screenshots of the new hillclimb track Trento-Bondone for their netKar Pro simulation.

Trento-Bondone and the Osella Osella PA-21 hillclimb car will be available in a few days. Licence for netKar PRO will costs €14.90.

Monday, December 27, 2010

InsideSimRacing.tv - KOR-FX and Perfect Pedal for G27

InsideSimRacing.tv presents a short video about a new audio device called the KOR-FX. This is something that attaches to your neck and sends sounds waves into your "core". Shaun interviews the inventor Shahriar Afshar about how he came up with the idea, how it works and when it will be available.


InsideSimRacing.tv  also presents a short video of the Perfect Pedal. Shaun got one, installed and put it on the revs scale along with some Pros & Cons. Check out what Shaun thought and if it's worth the expense to upgrade.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Live for Speed - Progress report

Live for Speed developer Scawen Roberts has released the progress of Live for Speed’s upcoming new tyre model:

Dear LFS Racers,

We hope you have had a good year.

The stable Z28 has been the latest version for a long time now, while we have been working on things for the long term future of LFS. As many of you know, the tyre physics system is being updated so all the cars will behave that bit closer to reality. It has proved to be a challenging and unpredictable project, involving a lot of studying, mathematics, testing and rewriting.

Read more at www.lfs.net

Saturday, December 25, 2010

iRacing.com - Real vs. Virtual - Spa-Francorschamps

EvilSamiad has released the comparison video of real and virtual Spa-Francorschamps race track in iRacing.com simulation. It is a showcase of the amazingly accurate iRacing tracks with real world photography.

Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most famous and beautiful race tracks in the world. The 7km long circuit is the venue of the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix and the Spa 24 Hours endurance race. It is considered to be one of the most challenging race tracks in the world, mainly due to its fast, hilly and twisty nature. Spa is a favourite circuit of many racing drivers and fans.


Friday, December 24, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Diary Part I: The Road to Ibiza

Atari has released a developer diary video of their upcoming Test Drive Unlimited 2 racing game. A look at some of the licensed cars in the game and the open online world, along with what makes TDU2 different from the original.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release on February 8th, 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

DiRT 3 - Gymkhana Trailer Video

See DiRT 3's incredible all-new Gymkhana game mode in action in the stunning DC Compound Gymkhana Trailer video, captured entirely from in-game footage. In the video Ken Block's Gymkhana THREE Ford Fiesta powerslides under lorries, crashes through boxes and leaps across huge jumps in a breathtaking, tyre-shredding masterclass of car control.

Inspired by the 90 million plus views video series inspired by Ken Block, DiRT 3 Technical Consultant, the gymkhana mode lets you unleash your inner hoonigan as you perform stunts and jumps in purpose built arenas. Express yourself in freestyle sessions or complete courses by performing spectacular stunts, racking up combos and chaining style points. You can also play or compete in online multiplayer and become a gymkhana stars by uploading your most spectacular runs direct to YouTube. Welcome to Gymkhana - a new kind of awesome.

iRacing.com - World's Fastest Alien

iRacing member and 2010 Drivers World Champion, Gregger Huttu, test drives a Skip Barber F2000 and a Star Mazda. Leading up to the test day at Road Atlanta, Gregger had never left his home in Finland or ever driven a racecar. Watch Gregger's amazing story, captured in two parts right here on Youtube. Visit iRacing.com and join the fastest growing live, online, internet racing game. Maybe you will be next year's world fastest alien.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Game of the Year Awards 2010 - Best Racing Game

GameTrailers.com has released a video showing a Game of the Year Awards 2010.

This year saw the release of several long-awaited franchise updates as well as some newcomers jumping into the fray, but there can only be one winner! Find out which game takes the gold in the GameTrailers Game of the Year Award for Best Racing Game!

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Houses and Audi Trailer

Atari has released new trailers of their upcoming racing game Test Drive Unlimited 2 showing some exotic houses and Audi cars.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release on February 8th, 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Monday, December 20, 2010

iRacing.com - Spa-Francorchamps Preview Video

iRacing.com has released a preview video of the Belgian race track Spa-Francorchamps for their simulation. It will be available for purchase on December 23rd, 2010.

Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most famous and beautiful race tracks in the world. The 7km long circuit is the venue of the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix and the Spa 24 Hours endurance race. It is considered to be one of the most challenging race tracks in the world, mainly due to its fast, hilly and twisty nature. Spa is a favourite circuit of many racing drivers and fans.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Colin McRae DiRT 3 - Gymkhana Developer Diary

A new developer diary video spoted about DiRT 3 the well known Rally and racing game showing us Ken block talk about the new Gymkhana mode. Ken Block talks about his love of Gymkhana in this behind-the-scenes look at DiRT 3.

DiRT 3 will feature over 50 cars that can be raced on over 100 stages. It will also offer the '70s cars such as the Lancia Stratos, the famously fierce Group B cars of the mid-80s are represented by Quattro S1, RS2000 and Peugeot 205 among others. The '90s gives us the Toyota Celica, the Lancia Delta Integrale or Colin McRae's Subaru Impreza.

Colin McRae DiRT 3 is scheduled for release in 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

iRacing.com - Spa-Francorchamps Preview Images

iRacing.com has released a preview screenshots of the Belgian race track Spa-Francorchamps for their simulation. It will be available for purchase on next week.

Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most famous and beautiful race tracks in the world. The 7km long circuit is the venue of the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix and the Spa 24 Hours endurance race. It is considered to be one of the most challenging race tracks in the world, mainly due to its fast, hilly and twisty nature. Spa is a favourite circuit of many racing drivers and fans.

Friday, December 17, 2010

iRacing.com - Extra Credit

Just in time for the holidays iRacing is offering extra credits when you purchase $20 or $75 worth of credits.
 
Save 25% - Buy $20 of iRacing Dollars and you will get $5 in bonus iRacing credits – Promo Code PR-FREECREDIT5
Or
Save 33% - Buy $75 of iRacing Dollars and you will get $25 in bonus iRacing credits – Promo Code PR-FREECREDIT25
To take advantage of these offers all you need to do is:
  1. Click on ‘View Cart’ on the iRacing.com member site
  2. Enter promo code PR-FREECREDIT5 or PR-FREECREDIT25 and click ‘Apply’
  3. Follow the rest of the check out instructions and your account will be credited with the appropriate iRacing Dollars and iRacing Credits
Offer valid through 12.31.10. Member may use each promo code only once.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Exclusive Multiplayer Modes Trailer

Atari has released a new trailer of their upcoming racing game Test Drive Unlimited 2 highlighting the game’s multiplayer features.

Pit yourself or your club against others in the multiplayer modes of Test Drive Unlimited 2!

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release on February 8th 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Gran Turismo 5 - Features Trailer

Check out this trailer for the newest features to be found in Gran Turismo 5, the latest installment in the best-selling racing franchise exclusively for Playstation 3.

Gran Turismo returns with the most realistic and complete racing experience. An unprecedented collection of over 1,000 meticulously detailed cars, complete with robust online racing and community features, and just about every style of racing imaginable, including road, rally, drift, kart, and select NASCAR cars--all in Gran Turismo's signature cutting-edge graphics.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 92

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 92.  This show includes a first look at the full release version of Gran Turismo 5. Tom Haake takes you on a tour of the features, while Darin and Shaun point out the good the bad and the ugly. They also cover what wheel work and what wheels wont. They also have "The Pit Stop" with Jessica Lopez with the latest sim racing news. And to top things off Top Sim Cars will add 2 cars from GT5 to the list.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Forza Motorsport 4 - Exclusive Debut Trailer

Microsoft and Turn 10 have released the first trailer for Forza Motorsport 4 which will launch on Xbox 360 in fall 2011, 2 years after Forza Motorsport 3 was released. The next installment in the Forza Motorsport series will feature support for Kinect.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

iRacing.com - Preview video Street Stock

iRacing.com has released a preview video of the upcoming racing car Street Stock. The It will be available to all members for free on December 23rd, 2010. To race the Street Stock online against your friends, go to www.iracing.com to learn more about iRacing!

Saturday, December 11, 2010

iRacing.com - NASCAR Promotion

iRacing.com is offering 3-Months Membership + Chevy Impala SS + Daytona International Speedway + Talladega Superspeedway for only $35 or 12-Months Membership + Chevy Impala SS + Daytona International Speedway + Talladega Superspeedway for only $75! That’s a savings of 50%! Also included in the membership:

* Unlimited head-to-head racing and open practice 24/7 in the world’s premier online sim racing service
* 5 Cars and 8 tracks with 15 configurations modeled flawlessly after their real-world counterparts
* Rookie road and oval licenses to start your online racing career
* Customizable race leagues or fun race sessions for you and your friends, using any car and track combination
* Our interactive iRacing video driving school

For the activation of the 3-Months Membership use this link or enter “PR-CarbCup3” on the Subscription page. For the activation of the 12-Months Membership use this link or enter “PR-CarbCup12” on the Subscription page.Offer valid for new accounts only. It expires 06/30/2011.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Raceroom The Game - Released

SimBin has released their new racing game RaceRoom The Game. The game is free of charge and only requires you to register as a member on RaceRoom.net Online to play.

The game contains three different variations of one of world’s most famous racing circuit - Hockenheim. Drivers will be able to race two exiting and very different cars. The Formula RaceRoom which is the fastest ever formula car from SimBin, and solid “American Muscle” in the form of the powerful Chevrolet Camaro.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

iRacing Today – Episode 19

Trevor: "This week I was lucky enough to have the chance to talk with Landon Cassill about the upcoming qualifying challenge that he is running.  It was a great look at how an up and coming racer is using iRacing to hone his craft.  I hope you enjoy it."
Listen the episode 19 at iracingtoday.com

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit - Super Cars Pack Trailer

EA Games have released a new trailer to announce the forthcoming Need For Speed Hot Pursuit premium Super Sports Pack. This DLC pack expands the Need For Speed world to include new events, new trophies and achievements and perhaps most importantly, some very sexy new cars – Bugatti Veyron SS, Porsche 911 GT2 and Gumpert Apollo.

From Criterion, the award-winning studio behind the Burnout series, Hot Pursuit will redefine racing games for a whole new generation. You'll experience stunning speeds, takedowns, and getaways as you battle your friends in the most connected Need for Speed game ever. Through Need for Speed Autolog and its innovative approach to connected social competition, your Hot Pursuit experience will extend beyond the console onto the web, constantly moving your gameplay in new and unique directions.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - World Trailer

Atari has released a new trailer of their upcoming racing game Test Drive Unlimited 2 showing the large world where drivers will race their cars and bikes.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release in early 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Monday, December 6, 2010

FANATEC Porsche 911 GT2 Wheel

FANATEC has launched a new wheel Porsche 911 GT2 for the XBox360, PlayStation 3 and PC.

Features
- Original Porsche 911 GT2 steering wheel design
- Licensed by Porsche Lizenz- und Handelsgesellschaft mbH
- Authentic metal Porsche logo on wheel
- Wheel rim wrapped in genuine Alcantara® from Italy which is 100% the same material as used in the real cars.
- Compatible with Xbox 360, PC and PlayStation 3
- Big diameter of steering wheel with 300 millimeters
- Gear sticks are interchangeable and can be mounted on the left or right side
- Big ClubSport Shifter paddles made of aluminum included
- TUNING functions with LED display
- Saves up to 5 wheel set-ups
- Adjust ForceFeedback strength during game play
- Adjust sensitivity independent from the game. Turning angle can be adjusted in the wheel to from 90° to 900°
- ABS vibration in the wheel and on the (optional) Clubsport pedals for all games
- Change the linearity in the steering axis to get the precision of a 900° wheel and the fast movement of a 270° wheel
- Add some artificial Dead Zone to avoid shaking on straights if needed
- Customize the Force Feedback sensations by changing the spring and dampening forces
- Activate the drift mode to let the wheel spin faster
- Illuminated buttons switch automatically between Xbox and PlayStation symbols
- Powerful Mabuchi RS 550 Motor as used in RC cars delivers extra strong Force Feedback effects.
- Additional 2 Force Feedback actuators in the wheel simulates motor vibrations.
- Extra smooth and silent belt drive with minimized mechanical dead zone.
- High resolution wheel sensor.
- Play with table/cockpit: Strong table clamps with quick release keeps everything in place. Integrated screw inserts allows a strong fixation on a gaming cockpit.
- Play without table: Fully compatible with the RennSport Wheel Stand which is available optional

The 911 GT2 is available as wheel-only option coming with a Logitech G25/27 pedal adapter or in combination with the aluminum Fanatec Porsche Clubsport pedals. The wheel sells for 249 Euros/Dollars with the Clubsport combo being available for 499 Euros/Dollars.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Gran Turismo 5 - Forza 3 Graphics Comparison

GameTrailers.com has released a comparison video showing a graphics differences between Gran Turismo 5 and Forza 3.
Two racing franchises go head-to-head with the Pagani Zonda R! Which game best masters the look and feel of Pagani's powerhouse? You decide!

netKar PRO - Osella Preview Video

YouTube user markus72000 has posted a new preview video from the netKar PRO simulation showing the new car Osella PA21S on the Trento Bondone hillclimb track during a thunderstorm. Both addons will be available as a new patch in December 2010.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Gran Turismo 5 - Vehicle Damage Gameplay

GameTrailers.com has released a gameplay video from Gran Turismo 5 showing a damage model of the premium cars. Premium cars take minor damage, Racing cars take the most!

Gran Turismo 5 features more than 1000 licensed cars from the world's top manufacturers and more than 20 tracks with more than 70 variations, including famous world circuits, city courses, and other environments. Featuring exciting gameplay and modes to suit newcomers, automotive enthusiasts, and seasoned fans, Gran Turismo 5 raises the bar on the franchise's depth of content and unparalleled visuals including lifelike graphics that are difficult to distinguish from a live race. Further reflecting this realism, cars will feature real-time visual damage with adaptive and accurate car deformation based on point of impact and velocity.

iRacing TV - Episode 6

iRacing TV Episode 6 is available for you to watch here: www.iracingtv.com

In this episode you will see an exclusive preview of the new cars and tracks; get the latest  updates from teh upcoming 2011 iRacing Drivers World Championship; Richard Towler  is awarded  in Homestead Florida.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Gran Turismo 5 - Review by GameTrailers.com

GameTrailers.com has released a video review of the Gran Turismo 5 developed by Polyphony Digital.

Gran Turismo 5 features more than 1000 licensed cars from the world's top manufacturers and more than 20 tracks with more than 70 variations, including famous world circuits, city courses, and other environments. Featuring exciting gameplay and modes to suit newcomers, automotive enthusiasts, and seasoned fans, Gran Turismo 5 raises the bar on the franchise's depth of content and unparalleled visuals including lifelike graphics that are difficult to distinguish from a live race. Further reflecting this realism, cars will feature real-time visual damage with adaptive and accurate car deformation based on point of impact and velocity.

Additionally for the first time, Gran Turismo 5 will feature an extremely deep online and community feature set. Players can progress and acquire credits through a variety of modes like GT Career Mode, Championship Races, License Tests and more, or they can explore different tracks and circuit variations in Arcade Mode. Additionally, players can race online with up to 16 players through PlayStation Network.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Need for Speed Shift 2 – Ignition Interview

Slightly Mad Studios has released a new video showing an interview with Executive Producer Marcus Nilsson.

EA has revealed that Shift 2 will ship with Autolog, an all-pervasive online hub that records race performances and lap times etc. before allowing gamers to share this info with friends. Beyond that, an all-new rendering engine has been built for Shift 2 by Slightly Mad Studios complete with a full graphical overhaul for the series.

Need For Speed: Shift 2 Unleashed will release next spring on the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 91

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 91. In this episode they check out the Fanatec GT3 RS V2 wheel and how to set it up with Gran Turismo 5. Shaun checks out the Logitech G510 Gaming Keyboard and G700 Gaming Mouse. Tommy goes retro and checks out MX vs ATV Unleashed for the PC and a mod called REV for it.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

RaceRoom.net - Promotional video

SimBin has released a new promotional video for the RaceRoom.net showing some features of the new portal.

RaceRoom Online is the ultimate racing platform for all racing fans, gamers and online users from all over the world. It is the perfect place to go in order to enjoy authentic virtual racing feeling and to meet the virtual racing community. On RaceRoom Online people will have the chance to compete in numerous racing games with the international community. The portal is launched in “public beta” and the development team will be very busy gathering data and comments from members already from the first day of operation.

Features of RaceRoom Online include:
- Free membership!
- Free access to authentic racing games on the highest level
- Exclusive news and media directly from SimBin
- Exclusive downloadable content
- Community hub supplying news, spotlights and events from fan sites around the globe.
- Discussion forum and member created portal content
- Fun and challenges for beginners, advanced, semi- and pro drivers
- Real cars, Real tracks, Real stars, Real Racing – REAL ENTERTAINMENT!

netKar PRO - New car preview

YouTube user markus72000 has posted a preview video showing the new car for netKar PRO simulation which will be available as a new patch in December 2010.

I am not sure what's the car, but I think it could be the AC Cobra or something similar. What do you think?

Monday, November 29, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Pre-Order Trailer

Atari has released a new trailer of their upcoming racing game Test Drive Unlimited 2 showing some of the bonus content that players who pre-order the title will receive.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release in early 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

RaceRoom.net – Free Game available soon

Simbin has launched their new project - RaceRoom.net - new online portal for SimBin games. SimBin also announced a new game called “RaceRoom – The Game”. The game will be exclusively available free of charge at RaceRoom Online on December 1st.

The game contains three different variations of one of world’s most famous racing circuit - Hockenheim. Drivers will be able to race two exiting and very different cars. The Formula RaceRoom which is the fastest ever formula car from SimBin, and solid “American Muscle” in the form of the powerful Chevrolet Camaro.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 90

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 90. In this episode, they attend the Need for Speed Hot Pursuit launch party in Los Angeles and then give the game a full review on the PS3. They also take a look at a new racing rig on the block for U.S based sim racers, by Sim-Seats.

Friday, November 26, 2010

iRacing.com - Get $30 in iRacing Credits!

Black Friday comes to iRacing this week. The day after the Thanksgiving holiday is the biggest shopping day of the year, when shoppers all over America line-up in the wee small hours of the morning to take advantage of all those great one day sales.

Renew your iRacing membership for a year and you’ll receive $30 iRacing credits as a bonus! Use them to purchase cars, tracks, hosted sessions or to extend your membership further. Think of the bonus credits as a little ‘thank you’ from all of us here at iRacing meant to kick off the holiday season.

With all that is new this season at iRacing – Williams FW31, Mazda Miata, ghost iRacing, GRAND-AM sanctioned racing, etc, now is the perfect time to renew your membership. Plus, the Street Stock car (FREE to all members) and Spa Franchorchamps will be available soon.

Whether you are currently racing or have taken a short break from iRacing you qualify for this offer.

To earn your bonus credits simply log in to your account and extend your membership by one year or more – we’ll do the rest. On Friday December 3rd we’ll email you a promo code which will add the bonus credits to your account. Act now by visiting http://members.iracing.com

Offer valid 11/25/10 - 11/29/10.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

rFactor 2 - Progress Report


Scott Juliano from ISI has posted a new progress report about track development:

So, let’s see. We finished the second pass on the last of the tracks, which was historic Belgium. When you saw the video, static crowds hadn’t been added yet, which they are now. We’ve started making the last pass on these tracks, which involves up-sizing textures when and where we can–where it makes sense to do so–as well as adding little pieces of glitz art. Do remember, we are trying to simulate large grids at good frame rates across a variety of machines–even with graphic options there still has to be give and take. There really IS only so much GPU and CPU bandwidth to go around

I also just finished reworking all the car/terrain reaction VFX. If you recall in rF1 our particles were… well, you know (I mean, they weren’t BAD [well, the fire was]), but they weren’t great either). Well, I’m glad to say that they are no longer “well, you know”. The programmers added some elements so I can control the particles better. So now we can get gravel kicking up and falling back to the ground as you traverse over a sandtrap, or grass and chunks of dirt that get kicked up when you spin the tires while offroad. All the skids have had a make over, as well as dust and various car smoke. OH, and our fire now looks like fire

I’ve also created particles for new features that HOPEFULLY can be added before we release. If not, they are there for us to implement in post-release updates.

Um, let’s see…. I also just finished adding first pass, animated team members to the pit area on one of our tracks (as a test to see if it’s worth it). These include some guys standing around talking, as well as people sitting at the telemetry stations going about their business. These aren’t really meant to directly interact with the cars–they’re just there to give the pit lane some life. For a first pass, it actually does what I intended–the pit lane doesn’t look like a barren wasteland devoid of people any more. Obviously we can’t have hundreds of crew members walking around (well, not unless no one would mind the game running at 5 FPS), but it’s FAR better than none at all…

Luc has been doing some work on a rF1 track “update” that should be included with rF2 in what we’re calling the “mod” section (more on that later). The purpose of this track is to show you how any rF1 track might look with just enough work done to it to get it running in rF2. And he’s roughing out some documentation of the procedures involved (which we will expand on post-release for you modders out there). The idea is to show you all that it will take SOME work to get an rF1 track up and running, and a bit more work to get it running with the ability to use new features, but none of this work should be too difficult.

Our Post FX work is progressing and hopefully we’ll have some early shots to show of that when we think it’s okay to do so (see, even WE have standards when it comes to WIP screens)….

And finally, Gjon and I spoke today about adding another historic track to rF2, HOPEFULLY for release. It seems reasonable to do it in the time we think we have left, but it is a track NOT to be taken lightly from an artist’s point of view. No, I won’t tell you what it is–it’s a surprise (and I don’t want to get anyone’s hopes up in case it doesn’t make initial release). If it doesn’t make it then it’ll be a great addition to our first post-release update. I will tell you that I’m very excited to be working on it though…

I’ll see what I can do about getting some quickie screen shots of the new FX or something in the next few days for Tim to put up….

Anyway, that’s about it for this update–think I’ve used up my allotment of virtual ink for this one. OH, I will add one more thing. The AI programmer has been doing a good amount of work in that area lately. The AI is not quite where we want it yet, but I can honestly say I’m having FUN racing the AI now, and I could never say that about rF1 AI. They are challenging, and a lot smarter about who is around them on track. Again, there’s still work to be done, but even at this stage the difference is night and day, so kudos to him.

And that’s it from me for now. Oh, and for those that celebrate–have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Gran Turismo 5 - Launch Trailer

Polyphony Digital has released a lunch trailer of their Gran Turismo 5.

Gran Turismo 5 features more than 1000 licensed cars from the world's top manufacturers and more than 20 tracks with more than 70 variations, including famous world circuits, city courses, and other environments. Featuring exciting gameplay and modes to suit newcomers, automotive enthusiasts, and seasoned fans, Gran Turismo 5 raises the bar on the franchise's depth of content and unparalleled visuals including lifelike graphics that are difficult to distinguish from a live race. Further reflecting this realism, cars will feature real-time visual damage with adaptive and accurate car deformation based on point of impact and velocity.

Additionally for the first time, Gran Turismo 5 will feature an extremely deep online and community feature set. Players can progress and acquire credits through a variety of modes like GT Career Mode, Championship Races, License Tests and more, or they can explore different tracks and circuit variations in Arcade Mode. Additionally, players can race online with up to 16 players through PlayStation Network.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

netKar Pro – 1.2C Update

Kunos Simulazioni has released a new version of netKar PRO 1.2C with several fixes:

- Improved server outgoing message flow
- Redesigned multithread implementation on Online Race Lobby to use less CPU resources
- Fixed server list ordering by connected users
- Fixed server list ordering by server name
- Server list is now ordered by connected users by default
- Added GUI option to select “loop mode” for hosted races
- Added “Invert first 6 places” loop mode for hosted races
- Fixed wrong aero drag calculation for extreme negaive body angle of attack value
- Improved contact response in car to car collisions
- Reduced aero draft effect
- Added “CONTACT” report to server log
- Added “START” report to server log
- Cars have more resistence to impacts
- Local car uses slot number 3 in top leaderboard
- Fixed server reporting wrong access code resulting in password box not showing up for started races
Licence for netKar PRO costs €19.90. You will get 5 circuits with various configurations and 6 five different cars, including 5  formula cars and the Fiat 500 Abarth.

Download netKar Pro 1.2C

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 89

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 89. In this episode they check out the latest version of Netkar 1.2 as well as the new Ferrari Virtual Academy tracks Mugello and Nurburgring. In the segment "Top Sim Cars of All Time" they present 91 F1 Williams Renault from rFactor and Formula KS2 from netKar PRO.

Monday, November 22, 2010

iRacing Today – Episode 18

Trevor: "Well after an unexpected hiatus, the show is finally back. Thanks for sticking with me. This week we play catch up and review the season that was and look forward to the season to come."
Listen the episode 18 at iracingtoday.com

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Colin McRae DiRT 3 – Gameplay video

Codemasters has released a first gameplay video of their upcoming DiRT 3 showing us the Audi Quattro S1 racing at Finland rally stage.

DiRT 3 will feature over 50 cars that can be raced on over 100 stages. It will also offer the '70s cars such as the Lancia Stratos, the famously fierce Group B cars of the mid-80s are represented by Quattro S1, RS2000 and Peugeot 205 among others. The '90s gives us the Toyota Celica, the Lancia Delta Integrale or Colin McRae's Subaru Impreza.

Colin McRae DiRT 3 is scheduled for release in 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Pagani vs Lamborghini Trailer

A fierce Pagani Zonda Cinque and a Lamborghini Murcielago Police Interceptor go head to head in this cliff-hanging thrill ride.

From Criterion, the award-winning studio behind the Burnout series, Hot Pursuit will redefine racing games for a whole new generation. You'll experience stunning speeds, takedowns, and getaways as you battle your friends in the most connected Need for Speed game ever. Through Need for Speed Autolog and its innovative approach to connected social competition, your Hot Pursuit experience will extend beyond the console onto the web, constantly moving your gameplay in new and unique directions.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Casino Online Trailer

Atari has released a new trailer of their upcoming racing game Test Drive Unlimited 2.

Enter the casino in this trailer for a new online element of Test Drive Unlimited 2.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is set on the island of Ibiza. The developers at Eden Studios used actual topographic information to design the environment and recreated a number of the island's towns in detail. All the road networks are designed to be as true to life as possible, so players will feel like they're really racing on Ibiza itself. The island has a full day/night cycle (and weather effects!) which spans approximately two hours, so players will be driving their cars of choice through rainy nights and brilliant sunsets.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 is scheduled for release in early 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Accolades Launch Trailer

The game critics have spoken and they are heaping praise on the Need For Speed Hot Pursuit. See for yourself in this launch accolades trailer.

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

netKar PRO - Rain Preview video

Kunos Simulazioni have released a preview video from their simulation netKar PRO showing us the rain effects from the cockpit view of the Fiat 500 Abarth.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Need for Speed SHIFT 2: Unleashed - Debut Trailer

Slightly Mad Studios and Electronic Arts present a new action-packed Need for Speed with SHIFT 2: Unleashed.

EA has revealed that Shift 2 will ship with Autolog, an all-pervasive online hub that records race performances and lap times etc. before allowing gamers to share this info with friends. Beyond that, an all-new rendering engine has been built for Shift 2 by Slightly Mad Studios complete with a full graphical overhaul for the series.

Need For Speed: Shift 2 Unleashed will release next spring on the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

Gran Turismo 5 - GT Academy Debut Trailer

A race from virtual to academy--announcing the international competition to find a new pro race driver!

GT Academy will challenge gamers and racing fans alike across the U.S. to compete in a series of online time trials in pre-selected Nissan vehicles in Gran Turismo 5. All participants will earn free digital content just for playing, as well as have an opportunity to win prizes for winning regional time trials.

The top 32 virtual racers in the country will be invited to compete in the live national finals event in March 2011 to become one of 16 GT Academy finalists. The 16 finalists will compete against each other in a series of challenges, including behind the wheel of real Nissan race cars, for a chance to become a professional race car driver as the GT Academy winner for the U.S. The winner will have the opportunity to train with elite race car drivers at international tracks and race as part of a professional team.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

netKar PRO - 1.2B Update

Kunos Simulazioni has released a new version of netKar PRO 1.2B with several fixes:

- Fixed FormulaKS2 windscreen hiding remote cars
- Fixed fog not correctly displayed
- Added “fog.ini” to allow per track fog customization. See “tracks/prato/fog.ini” for a reference.
- Fixed dds texture failing to load when quality level is not full and the file contains mipmaps.
- Added loading bar to KTO files
- Fixed cutoff timing on the KS2
- Fixed triple screen scenery pop-up
- Added option to disable gamma ramp correction (DISABLEGAMMA in nk3d.ini)
- Fixed sliding vector having wrong magnitude in the tyre model

Licence for netKar PRO costs €19.90. You will get 5 circuits with various configurations and 6 five different cars, including 5  formula cars and the Fiat 500 Abarth.

Download netKar Pro 1.2B

iRacing.com - GRAND-AM Promo video

iRacing TV has released a promo video for their GRAND-AM iRacing.com Online Sports Car Series.

With this promo video iRacing.com is offering 3-Month Membership for only $12! That’s a savings of 60%! Also included in your 3-Month membership:

* Unlimited head-to-head racing and open practice 24/7 in the world’s premier online sim racing service
* 3 Cars and 8 tracks with 15 configurations modeled flawlessly after their real-world counterparts

For the activation use this hyperlink or enter “PR-GA12” on the Subscription page. Offer valid for new accounts only. It expires 03/31/2011.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Colin McRae DiRT 3 – Developers Q&A video

Codemasters has released the 1st Developers Q&A video for their upcoming Colin McRae DiRT 3. The video features Senior Game Designer Paul Coleman, Vehicle Handling Designer Tim Dearing and Senior Vehicle Handling Designer Gehan Pathiraja.

DiRT 3 will feature over 50 cars that can be raced on over 100 stages. It will also offer the '70s cars such as the Lancia Stratos, the famously fierce Group B cars of the mid-80s are represented by Quattro S1, RS2000 and Peugeot 205 among others. The '90s gives us the Toyota Celica, the Lancia Delta Integrale or Colin McRae's Subaru Impreza.

Colin McRae DiRT 3 is scheduled for release in 2011 for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Crash Montage

We take the prettiest, most expensive cars in Hot Pursuit and do awful, terrible, inhuman things to them.

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

MotoGP 10/11 - Announcement trailer

Capcom has released an announcement trailer for their upcoming racing game Moto GP 10/11.

As with MotoGPTM 09/10, MotoGP 10/11 will continue to offer the most robust online mode in a racing title, allowing up to 20 players to compete in a Championship race. Gamers can choose their racing settings and join in mid-race with spectator mode to check out the competition before the race starts.

Features:
* The complete 2010 MotoGP season with free DLC for the 2011 MotoGP championship shortly after the season starts
* Enhanced physics and handling system creating the most realistic MotoGP gaming experience
* Customisable player assists to emulate or tame the real world forces that riders have to deal with on track
* Five game modes including “Championship’, ‘Time Trial’, ‘Challenge’, ‘Career’ and ‘Online’
* The only racing game where you can compete with up to 20 players online
* Play with a team mate in ‘Career’ mode through the brand new addition of local co-op play
* New and improved audio featuring real life MotoGP bikes

netKar PRO - Version 1.2

Kunos Simulazioni has released a new version of netKar PRO 1.2 with several fixes. It also adds new features listed here:

> Added the new FormulaKS2 car
> Improved tyre model
> Improved differential model
> Improved multiplayer contact response
> Improved loading times
> Added a live laptime report for multiplayer races
> Added realtime performance meter
> "Controls" overlay is now on by default
> Controls overlay now show brake and throttle activity during replay
> Fixed wrong steer ration showing during replays recorded with different steer lock
> Smoother steering wheel movements during replay
> Only PAYCODE is now NEEDED to unlock the lincense

Licence for netKar PRO costs €19.90. You will get 5 circuits with various configurations and 6 five different cars, including 5  formula cars and the Fiat 500 Abarth.

Download netKar Pro 1.2

Friday, November 12, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Review by GameTrailers.com

GameTrailers.com has released a video review of the Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit developed by Criterion Games.

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 88

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 88. In this episode they head to Las Vegas to cover the 8th annual Gran Turismo Awards presentation at the SEMA 2010 trade show. Jessica and Shaun follow Kazunori as he decides which car will be in Gran Turismo.They also stopped by iRacings booth and interviewed a few sim racers. One is a pro racer Brian Sellers and he talks abut his rig and experience as a sim racer.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

iRacing.com - Video 250 Seconds

YouTube user Perilac has released a video from iRacing.com simulation showing iRacing rookie cars. First car in the video is the Ford Legends. Second one the new Mazda MX-5 followed by the Spec Racer Ford, and last but not least the Pontiac Solstice.

Sit back and enjoy ... the next 250 seconds.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Demo Success Trailer

Criterion Games have released a new trailer of their Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit showing the success of demo version.

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Monday, November 8, 2010

iRacing TV - Episode 5

iRacing TV Episode 5 is available for you to watch here: www.iracingtv.com

Sean Siff and Kevin Bobbitt cover the latest build news, and recap the iRacing Drivers World Championship and the final NASCAR iRacing Series World Championship. Also features exclusive guided setup tutorials.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

rFactor 2 - WIP Reflections Screenshots

Image Space Incorporated has released 4 high-resolution preview screenshots of the rFactor 2 showing us the car body reflection effects from the cockpit view and from external view on the Chevrolet Corvette C6.R at Sepang Circuit.

rFactor 2 will bring various improvements to the simulation such as weather, driver animations and better graphics.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Seacrest County Environments

Criterion Games have released a trailer showing off the types of challenges you will encounter whilst driving around Seacrest county in very fast cars. The fictional town of Seacrest is perfect for street racers, which is why the police have been forced to step up their game. Regardless of the side you choose, though, you'll always have beautiful environments around you.

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

rFactor 2 - Video Spa-Francorchamps

Tim Wheatley from Image Space Incorporated has released a new WIP video of the rFactor 2. The video shows 2 laps on the historical Spa-Francorchamps race track.

Tim Wheatley says: "This is WIP. This historic track is in development. We want those of you who are historic racing fans (or fans of the movie "Grand Prix" I guess) to see it as soon as possible - so here it is. I used the front bumper cam so that you can see similarities from old footage like that in the movie. You will see draw and animation issues in this video that do not represent the drawing and animation qualities of the release version of rFactor 2. Also: No audio - stop trying to turn up the volume."

rFactor 2 will bring various improvements to the simulation such as weather, driver animations and better graphics.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit - Preview by GameTrailers.com

GameTrailers.com has released a video preview of the Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit developed by Criterion Games.

Start your engines and plan your escape route, the countdown to Hot Pursuit has begun!

Loaded with action, this game will challenge you to become Seacrest County's top cop or most wanted racer. For the first time ever in a Need for Speed game, you'll be able to play a full career on either side of the law. This fall, whether you're a lead-foot speeder or a cop with a mean streak, make sure your aviators are spotless and your driving record is anything but.

Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is scheduled for release on November 16th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

iRacing.com - 2010 Season 4 Build

iRacing.com has updated their online racing simulation to a new software build for the 4th season of 2010. Here is the message from their newsletter:

It’s that time of year again - the time when we release a new build with tons of refinements and improvements to iRacing and some great new content! We are so excited to release what has to be one of the most anticipated cars to join the iRacing.com garage - the Williams-Toyota FW31 grand prix car. This new car is only one highlight from this build so read on to see what else is new.

Williams-Toyota FW31
Our new A class road course car, it doesn’t get any more technically advanced than this.

Mazda MX5 Cup and Roadster
Free to all members and the new Rookie class road racing car.

GRAND-AM Online Sports Car Series
our new partnership with GRAND-AM Road racing introduces a new multi class series on iRacing with full season coverage of the leaders on GRAND-AM.com.

Formula Fun Series
Open to all members regardless of license level, this series features the Williams FW31 and races on several of the most historic tracks around the world.

Carburetor Cup
Features the Class A Chevy Impalla racing at Charlotte, Daytona and Talladega, this fun series is open to all iRacers regardless of license level. Now you start racing the top NASCAR racecar the very first day you join iRacing!

In-Sim Graphical Improvements
A completely revamped shadow and lighting system that improves the look and feel of the sim dramatically. Plus it is more efficient so virtually all users will see the difference, even if you don’t have a super computer.

Ghost iRacing
Drive in an online race against other competitors, without impacting their race – a great way to improve your driving technique.

Improved Member Site Personalization
Upload pictures, browse member profiles, display iRacing certificates, etc.

Monday, November 1, 2010

InsideSimRacing: Episode 87

InsideSimRacing.tv has released a new episode 87. In this episode, they finish off their iRacing open house coverage with a look at the tour that all the iRacers got to go on. They also have footage of the Williams FW31 and Mazda Miata in action. Then Shaun sits down with Greg Hill to talk about new enhancements that are coming to iRacing. Then the top story of the show is a conversation with Dave Kaemmer to talk about the new tire model that will be implemented very soon.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

ARCA Sim Racing 2010 - Trailer

The Sim Factory has released a new trailer of their ARCA Sim Racing simulation showing cars and track for season 2010.

ARCA Sim Racing is a stock-car racing simulator developed by The Sim Factory LLC, a small American based computer software company devoted to the to the most accurate production of racing simulation software.

Recognized in press and by championship racing teams, this software is used by quite a number of drivers as a training tool to hone their skills and refine their abilities giving them a huge step up on the competition. The game simulates the 2008 & 2010 ARCA RE/MAX season.

Gran Turismo 5 - Red Bull X1 Prototype

One of the youngest drivers in Formula One racing, Sebastian Vettel, shakes down the X1 Prototype and takes it for a spin at Nürburgring GP race circuit in Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo 5.

For more technical specifications of the X1 Prototype visit the official Gran Turismo 5 website. You will also find there new screenshots of the car.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

iRacing.com - Release Notes for 2010 Season 4

Grant Reeve has posted release notes for new 2010 Season 4:

Website:

Test Panel

- No longer reloads the entire page when changing car/track/config.

- Added links to car forum.

- Fixed night mode handling so it will load a night track when it should.


Race Panel

- Added car forum links.

- Added series schedule links.

- The session selection box will be hidden if the service isn't running.


Series Pulldowns

- Modified these throughout the site to separate road from oval and eligible from ineligible and active from inactive. This should make the pulldowns more usable as we're always adding more series to the list.


References Menu

- Added sporting code link.


Spectator Mode

- The number of drivers in a session should be correct now. It used to always show ‘0’.

- You will now be asked to select a car when spectating a multi-class session. This allows you drive that car on track in spectator mode.

- Additional filters have been added to the spectator page.


Online Status

- Changed various popups to include session information. An example is if your service isn't running you wouldn't see the details of what your friend is doing. This should be implemented better now.


Driving School

- Changed the driving school certificate button to redirect you to the awards page rather than launching the pdf.


References Menu

- Added sporting code link.


Identity Section

- Added a link from your name to your career stats page.


Hosted Sessions

- IE8 fixes to host a race functionality.

- Resized fixed setup dialog to make it more usable.


Updater

- Fixed progress handling so we will reload the page automatically after installing updates.


Member Profile

- A new “Driver Profile” section has been added to the Community widget on the Dashboard. With this widget members will be able to share info about themselves with other members. Members can upload a photo, input personal information, or write a bio about themselves.

Member Stats Overhaul

- The STATS -> Personal/Friend/Studied sections have been redesigned. The top of the page works similarly to the Driver Profile widget and displays driver profile information. The area below has been split into two tabs: Career and Awards. Career displays the standard career summary. The new Awards tab will serve as a location to collect/display certificates which drivers have earned for winning season racing competitions/completing the driving school/etc. It will also be the future home of a now-in-development iRacing Awards system where drivers will be able to work towards a variety of goals and track their progress towards achieving them. NOTE: Certificates will display retroactively if you have earned any in the past, but not immediately with the rollout of the build. We need to run a process later in the week to make this happen.

iRacing World

- iRacingWorld will soon be closed. Along with this build direct access to iRacingWorld through members.iracing.com has been disabled. In one month’s time the site will be turned off altogether. If you have files you would like to save off of iRacingWorld before its closure, it will remain accessible at the following link www.iracingworld.com.


Simulation:

General

- Fixed hack that let people change the driving camera while hitting the drive button.

- Patched bug that let a driver change his screen name.

- Added in hotkey to adjust driving view (VanishY) up and down to help make dash more visible. The default keypresses are shift-[ and shift-].

- Scenic camera focuses on center line instead of race line. May help keep the cameras out of the wall.


Spectating

- Can test drive a car on track while spectating a race, without being visible to the other drivers.


Sound

- Tweaked volume of sound sources to properly account for delay from sound travel time when stuff is moving. For example, incoming cars are quieter and outgoing cars are louder, and in a fast pack cars ahead will be louder and cars behind will be quieter.

- On-car cameras can now use a set of on-car engine sounds that are different from the in-car and out-of-car sounds. Only the Williams FW31 does this at this time.


Telemetry SDK

- Tire and Gauge data is now output in the telemetry SDK.

- The telemetry SDK was wrapped into a proper DLL and a demo application was written in C# to support it.


Chat

- Increased number of chat messages visible to 1024.

- If you are a driver, spectator chats can now be seen when exiting your car and you can chat with spectators via a new toggle button in the chat box.

- Improved coloring of chat messages to make spectator chats more obvious.

- Spectators can chat even when chat is disabled with the !nchat command.

- Removed spchat/nspchat commands.


Black Boxes / Pitting

- Cleaned up black box and pitting bugs that gave cars a full tank and fresh tires during a tow. And improved refueling controls.

- Enable black boxes during time trials and in qualifying.

- Fixed a bug that allowed cars to get pit service even when parked into the pit travel lanes.

- F4-F8 black boxes now remember which control you were adjusting. The HOME key will reset the currently selected control on one of these pages back to the top which is useful if you were using scripts to adjust these items.

- F2 Standings black box now shows other cars' results when in oval qualifying.

- All cars: F7 black box title should now be "In-pit Adjustments" and F8 title should be "In-car Adjustments"


Graphics

- The illumination model is greatly improved producing brighter brights and better contrast.

- Many of the track and car textures have been adjusted to more correct levels of relative brightness and color.

- Trees, walls, fences, and many trackside objects may now cast shadows very cheaply via the new advanced graphics option, "shadow maps". There are several related options to enable it (note that the settings are on both the graphics and replay options tabs, so you can set each mode differently):

1) First select either "shadows maps on everything", or "shadow maps on tracks/cars". The main difference is that "everything" adds a lot of the terrain to receiving shadows. If you have a fast system, pick "everything", if you have a slower system, pick only "track/cars" at first. Expect a 5% to 10% FPS drop, depending on your selection here (compared to no shadows).

2) For sure, try enabling the related "trackside objects" option. If you later have any new loading problems at larger tracks (and you have an AGP or older GPU), it may help to turn this off, as it requires a little more video memory. Most systems will be able to enable this, and it is worth it!

3) Enable the "Prefer shadow maps" option. This indicates that if you have both shadow maps and shadow volumes enabled, you would prefer that objects cast shadows using shadow maps. This is usually faster (and better in many cases). When checked, walls, and opaque portions of trackside objects will cast shadows via shadow maps rather than shadow volumes when both are enabled.

4) (optional) If you have a really (very) high end system and want shadows from cockpits and cars (or you want them in replays) then go ahead and enable shadow volumes in addition to the above. Currently the cockpits and cars can only cast shadows via shadow volumes. Enabling 2-pass will still be very expensive to enable, so you might want to reserve that for replay mode only. 1-pass shadow volumes are actually about 20% faster now, if you also have shadow maps enabled and preferred.

- A crowd detail option has been added to the advanced graphics options. Selecting "high" detail crowds adds a backside to the spectators at many tracks - useful for replays, but not so important when driving. "Low" is the same setting as in previous builds, the old front side only crowds. "None" is new option to turn off (or greatly reduce) crowds at many tracks during on-line events - useful if you suspect crowds cause a large drop in FPS for your system. Suggested setting is high detail for replays, and low detail (on none on lower end systems) for racing.

- The advanced graphics options for improving car texture appearance have been renamed, but work the same as before.

- Night lighting is now properly adjusted for sRGB gamma. Cars on track shouldn't get so dark in the dimmer spots - the illumination now appears more even.

- Enabled IZ3D to operate without causing a loading error 68. If anyone is currently using the IZ3D driver with a custom workaround (d3d9.dll) that we made for you please try it without the special d3d9.dll (rename it or copy it somewhere safe) and see if now works OK without the workaround.


Tracks

- Mosport and Indianapolis/Road now have gained time checkpoints to prevent cutting pit entrance to gain laptime.

- First couple of pit stalls at Brands Hatch tweaked so they don't aim right at that annoying solid rail.

- Martinsville checkpoints tweaked so not be able to sneakily get a fast lap time by driving the infield just so.


Cars

- In-car adjustable increment and decrement controls are able to be mapped to controller buttons in a new Options page In-Car tab. To make it easy to see which controls are available on a car, the controls that are on the currently loaded car are highlighted, while the unavailable controls are greyed out but still assignable.

- For cars that have it, a pit lane speed limiter is now available. The control is assignable, default is the key A, which toggles the pit lane speed limiter on or off. When getting into your car it is off by default.

- A tweak was made to the current tire model that improves tire damping characteristics. This is most noticable on cars that run very low tire pressures.

- All-aids shifting should be a little bit less of a time loss versus the lower/no shifting aids in all cars.

- Updated how the auto-parking-brake releases so the Jetta TDI doesn't sometimes get bound up trying to pull away from a standstill.

- The Riley DP updated with 2011 contingency decals.

- The Latemodel has slightly improved engine cooling.

- The Dallara now uses the Indy tires and aero package at Pocono, and now uses the road course aero package at Centripetal Circuit.

- The Pontiac Solstice has updated tires to the latest version of our tire model, similar to the Mustang and MX-5 tires.


ATT Williams FW31

- Introducing the 2009 AT&T Williams FW31.

- This is the first car for which we have written a setup guide, located within the Resources -> Reference Documents area of the website.

- 3 downforce trims are available.

- Front flap angle and rear wing wicker can be altered for aero balance adjustments.

- Front suspension has corner springs, anti-roll bar, and heave spring.

- Rear suspension has heave spring and anti-roll bar only.

- Vehicle has 6 dampers: 4 corner dampers, and 2 heave dampers.

- Brake pressure and dynamic brake bias are available to adjust.

- While in pit-box and in neutral dynamic brake balance is shown on display.

- Ballast is moveable.

- Front and rear inerter masses are adjustable.

- Spec out diff locking with ‘diff build.’

- In-car adjustments are brake bias, three diff settings, engine braking, engine power and throttle pedal response.

- Pit stop adjustments include front flap angle.


Mazda MX-5 Cup and Roadster

- Introducing the Mazda MX-5 Cup and Roadster. These cars are our new Rookie cars and can race together in the same series.

The cars are more than just mirror images of each other. The Cup car is left hand drive, and uses the 6-speed transmission available in the production car. The Roadster is based more closely on the Japanese-spec NR-A version, with it’s 5-speed transmission and slightly smaller tires.

This may seem like a mis-match, but it’s closer than you may think. With the different gearing, the Roadster loses a little bit in straight line acceleration, due to the bigger RPM drops between shifts, but partly makes up for it with a better top (5th) gear ratio compared to 6th in the Cup car. That’s not even mentioning the right hand weight bias that can prove beneficial on the predominantly clockwise-run road racing tracks. However, the Cup car does have a potentially higher top speed (in the draft) on the longer tracks.

- Gearing and setups are the big difference between the two. Gearsets are below:
         Cup   Roadster
1st:    3.82   3.136
2nd:   2.26   1.888
3rd:   1.64   1.330
4th:   1.18   1.000
5th:   1.00   0.814
6th:   0.79
Final Drive: 4.10

- Both cars are going to be fixed setup for Novice level races, so that takes a lot of the “tinkering” out of the equation. Advanced level events in both cars will allow standard adjustment of alignments (Caster, Camber and Toe) along with tire pressures. The Cup car will allow shock damping adjustments as well as limited ride height variation.

- Roadster has Bilstein (non-adjustable) dampers and stiffer springs than standard production, but not too stiff for daily use. (A good number of the racers that run the car at Tsukuba Raceway drive the cars to and from the track, and even commute in them.)

- Cup car has Sachs 2-way adjustable dampers (Bump and Rebound) and are quite similar to the Mustang shocks in their damping adjustment method. Bump is adjusted in “clicks” while rebound is modified by 45° “sweeps.”

- Tires are BFGoodrich G-Force R-1s on the Cup car. The Roadster is going to run the same tires on it, for consistency of performance between the two cars. The mandated tires for the NR-A car are a Bridgestone RE-11 tire, but they aren’t a DOT-R compound, so to minimize any competitive disadvantage it was decided to be consistent, even if not 100% correct in this particular case.