Name:  - NASCAR Pro Force Feedback Wheel
Thrustmaster Description:
Don’t just hear your engine roar... feel it too!
If you are looking for one of the most comprehensive racing wheels to come out in a long time, why not test run the NASCAR® Pro Force Feedback? Complete with features for drivers and the games they play.
The NASCAR Pro FFB offers a sturdy foot pedal system, central clamp that can deal with even the most aggressive driving, wheel-mounted buttons, stick shift, comfortable all-rubber wheel, and internal motor that provides realistic sensations during your intensive gameplay.
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12/11/2001 - Throughout this review I will be making references to my earlier review of the joystickreview.com award winning Best-Wheel-of-2001, the Thrustmaster Ferrari Force Feedback Wheel. Why am I making that comparison?… because many of the features are close or the same.
You should also note that this wheel didn't score as high as it could have. Notice that the categories that really count, had excellent scores - but not having a game included and a need for better help instructions have hurt the score... again (the Ferrari had low scores in this category, and was still the Best of 2001).
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Bring the Force to NASCAR
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81.6
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| First Impression |
This wheel looks good, and it should… it's big brother is the 2001 'King of the Hill' in force feedback. |
9.0
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| Software Installation |
The driver install CD includes drivers for Win98, Win2k, and ME The install went smooth, with no problems. The Quick Install instruction manual contains pictures and takes you step-by-step through the installation. |
9.0
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| Software Controller Interface |
The default USB connection installs the base controller driver and the interface allows you to test the functionality of your controller (much like displays you see in stores). You can easily set the force options with the included default install application .
Thrustmapper
You can customize the settings by assigning actions to any of the buttons you desire. You can save your custom profiles for each game. The interface is very straight forward, and I found it easy to use. In order to get the Thrustmapper you must visit their web site… which can be a bit of a pain if you live in the land of 'slow connections'. Your advantage is that when you get the software from their site, you will get the latest version - but I would still rather have it on CD and get the latest only when I have to. |
8.0
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| Game Included |
None. This controller wears the name NASCAR and there are an awful lot of NASCAR games on the market. I would like to see (at least) an older version ship with this controller… you know the kind I'm talkin' about - those $9.99 jobs you see in the software dig bins. |
4.0
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| Help Instructions |
The wheel comes with a full manual (mostly full looking because of the multiple languages contained) that gets you started installing your hardware and software. The Windows help file in the software interface is functional, but very plain. |
6.0
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| Comfort |
Just like the Ferrari Force, this is basically the same wheel and control setup… which is TOP notch! It is very comfortable and natural feeling. The design of the wheel allows your thumbs to easily rest while you are driving. Even after all of the reviews we have done, this wheel is still the most comfortable (and even does well under 'sweat' conditions). |
9.5
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| Construction (Quality) |
The quality is very good. Thrustmaster has a reputation for making above average controllers.
Differences from Ferrari Force
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Wheel and Buttons
The wheel, shifters, and buttons appear to be the same as the Ferrari.
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FORCE
The Force effects appear to be the same… very strong - just the way I like it. When you turn it up, you will get a hand full of force. Sierra's NASCAR is a lot of fun with a force feedback, and when the force is up on Moto1's Drag Racing Main Event you will be hard pressed to keep the car out of the wall if you get squirrelly.
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MOUNTING
The mounting system simply has one turn handle (vs. the Ferrari's two handle/knob system). The Ferrari's gives you a more snug feeling, however after several hours and sessions of abuse - I didn't experience a single issue with the mounting difference and it appears to be adequate for the long haul. One of the benefits of this mounting is that the unit is smaller.
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Pedals
The pedals have a different plug-in than the Ferrari. The Ferrari has a 'PS2 keyboard type' plug-in, and the NASCAR has a 'phone type' plug-in. The pedals themselves look different (shape and color), and this is one area where I prefer the Ferrari.
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8.8
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| Looks |
This controller has a very nice, clean look. Not a lot of fluff, but you can 'see' the quality. |
8.5
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| Value (price for what you get) |
Considering how closely this controller stacks up to the Ferrari, and sells for less money - the value is outstanding. Of all controllers tested so far in this price category, the NASCAR Pro Force comes out on top. |
9.4
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| Recommend to Others |
Compared to anything in a comparable price range, this controller simply delivers the most punch, and has everything I want in a Force Feedback wheel… great Force!! |
9.4
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RECOMMENDATIONS to the Vendor
LAZ
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I would like to have the interface software on the installation CD.
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Graphical pictures in a help file would be great. I would suggest an HTML help file interface with lots of pictures, that can be installed from the CD. This will provide fast access, without having to go online - OR put it all in a PDF file.
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I like the pedals on the Ferrari, but would like to have a base that would have a TALL 'heel shaped' support (maybe adjustable), so my feet will stay where they should… on the pedal base. Note: This is a whiney complaint that I have yet to see anyone address well.
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