Well, there seems to be no end to the expensive accessories (Guitar Hero = Guitar, DDR = dance pad) and now the racing wheels. I know they have been around for a while, but it seems that Microsoft has dropped the price to 129 (I suppose to co-incide with Forsa 2 release).

My question is that to those who have the wheel, does the 'game play experience' improve. Does the wheel do a better job than the joystick? Is it easier to control? What is the 'forse feedback' issue?

On top of that, the price is even cheaper at Sam's club ($104 when in your cart), so that is what has tempted me even more. I am getting Forsa this week (likley at circuitcity for the free game) so maybe I should get the wheel as well? Thanks in advanced.

I tried the wheel at a friends house, it felt really cheap, i would just stick with the controller. The wheel feels half the price of what it actually costs.

I got the wheel for $99 CA last Friday as part of a Best Buy sale (probably in anticipation for Forza 2). I was not too impressed with it. While I felt the wheel was solid, it just didn't feel right. For example, whenever I would come out of a turn in the Forza demo I would instinctually turn the wheel too much and send my car into skid (we are talking the C class cars here, not the racers) . Even after playing for about an hour I just couldn't get used to it. PGR was even worse. On the positive side, the force feedback is great. Nonetheless, I boxed it back up and brought it back.

Perhaps if we could use one of the Logitech 900 degree wheels it would feel right.

Thanks for the input. I initially did order it from Sam's club, but then I cancelled the order. Might as well and wait a little longer beforer pulling the trigger. I am buying Forsa however.

yes it does. Its the best thing for the 360

The wheel is well made, and I know some folks are doing well with it. I however regret buying it, it makes pretty well every game you can use it with harder than it is to use the controller.... I'm still torn over whether or not to buy Forza2, and even if I did I'm not sure I'd use the wheel at all.

I don't regret buying the wheel at all and I'd have no problem recommending it. I think the people who want 900 degrees are insane because I get pissed when a game like Forza makes me turn the wheel the entire way to make a turn. And that's only 270 degrees (divided by two!)

I am extremely satisfied with my wheel. It really adds to the experience for me at least.

My question is that to those who have the wheel, does the 'game play experience' improve. Does the wheel do a better job than the joystick? Is it easier to control? What is the 'forse feedback' issue?

I feel that games are a bit more difficult with the wheel.

In most games and especially PGR3 the wheel is way too "touchy" for my tastes. In the Dirt demo you can adjust sensitivity but it still feels very "touchy". Still, I'm getting used to that sensitivity and hill climb in Dirt is growing on me! Forza2 with the wheel is spot on for me.

Most friends that come to my house and try the wheel have more frustration than fun with it and end up sliding the wheel off the table (the support clamp is far from strong enough).

Force feedback is well implemented in both Dirt and Forza2.

I would say that if you are more of a "high scores" type of guy you should stick with the controller and if you are more on the immersion side buy the wheel and buy it in a store that has a good return policy just in case.

Even with an increased level of difficulty I get a better 'game play experience' with the wheel for sure. You just have to get used to it.

All it takes is prcatice. Drive the game like you drive in real life. It doesent take that hard to get used to.

I love the wheel, with a good cab, there isn't a better accessory for the system. In fact, I don't play with the controller any more, it just feels unrealistic. The wheel adds to the total immersion

these are the same complaints you'll see of any wheel on any system. It's very similar to the mouse vs gamepad issue. I haven't tried a MS one yet, but I've seen this debate over the years.

Gamepads are great in that they are ergonomic, and just geared to be a relaxed gaming method. Killer is, they also make you lazy. With a stick, you can easily turn a car from full left to full right unrealistically quick, almost instantly.

With a wheel, people get pissed at the ~270 movement. in reality, once your car is moving you would never move your wheel at 900 degree's. You only need 900 when your parking or moving very slow. And in a high end sports car, there are even less turns of the wheel then say your everyday econo car. I'll admit, the more degree of movement the more realistic it would be, but the game would have to compensate for speed, meaning the faster you go the less you have to move the wheel, just like a real car. Truth is, most games don't calibrate for a wheel very well on a console anyways, yet alone 900 degrees. Do you want to have to turn the wheel 3 times when going 100mph when trying to go around a simple corner? No, of course not, and that is why we don't need 900+ degrees of motion. It's a compromise. When you are playing a racing game, you don't spend the gist of your time parallel parking so why care?

A steering wheel is generally much MUCH MUCH more precise then a gamepad....but of course if the game isn't written to take advantage of it, then it's simply not going to work well. I have a wheel for the PC, I would never play a game without it. Going around corners is so realistic, whereas with a gamepad you are stuck doing the usual mix of tapping in one direction...oppps too far, then tap in the other direction to compensate. PGR3 really irritated me for this. Sure the gamepad allowed for a quick and easy way to drift, but trying to drive smoothly was much harder then it had to be.

Some people don't like using the mouse for a FPS because it's too hard. it is far more accurate and realistic, as is a steering wheel. I'm sure with time and practice, these issues would go away for anyone. If the game is written to work with a steering wheel, then anyone with a wheel should be able to hand a whoopping to anyone on a gamepad.

Agreed! Good comments NewFMP3

Been playing with the wheel all day today..I love it!

I'm also enjoying my wheel with Forza 2.

Luv the wheel...Forza 2 would not be as fun for me without the wheel.

Hey guys...Can anybody tell me if the MS wireless wheel works with the same battery pack as the MS wireless controllers?

Thanks

DeathDealerB

Yes, it does, but I'm not sure it even uses the batteries when it is plugged into the wall. I have not had to replace the batteries yet, despite 20+ hours of play.

The wheel does take some getting used to, but it is worth it in the long run. I noticed that it's pretty much useless in the third person views, but it works quite well in cockpit or front bumper views. I got the wheel last week while it was on sale here in Canada, and it's taken me about a week to finally feel that I'm playing as good or better compared to using a controller. I somewhat miss the convenience of the controller though.

I really like the wheel. Got it a day before the price drop (got refunded for that, helped pay for Forza) I can't see playing any game that would take advantage of a wheel with a controller now. Forza 2 and the wheel were made for each other. Match made in heaven. PGR3 isn't that bad either and alot of fun with the wheel. You DO have to get used to it though.

For people who are throwing wheels off their clamps only thing I can say is your driving practices are way off. No way the wheel should be flying off when using it. Clamp is plenty strong if not then either you're not using it right or it's defective some how.

It is the best accessory on the 360, after playing with the wheel i wouldn't play forza without it.

I bought the wheel when I picked up my copy of FM2 and I'm very glad I did. The wheel completely enhances the gameplay experience and, in my opinion, helps your skill a little bit. After about 4 races, I was pretty much dialed in as far as using the wheel.

It's worthwhile to mention that this is my first racing wheel period, never owned one before this and I love it.

I picked up the MS wheel today. I find it fun when I can get it right, but that's rare so far. For PGR3 I have been able to perform better than when I play Forza2. I've been playing with mostly default settings but I did turn all driving assistance off, does anyone have a suggestion on what settings to use in Forza that run well? My problem is rampant over-steering. :confused:

The wheel is very nice, but I'm finding it nearly impossible to get comfortable while using it. It seems as if I need a special setup or something and thats not going to happen.

The wheel rocks for an immersive experience with ForzaII.

If you are spinning out of control all the time perhaps you are flooring it all the time and your rear wheels are spinning. Thus, the back end of the car is coming unglued.

I have to wonder how many of the people having trouble are kids who have never driven a high HP car that can spin the back tires?

I don't doubt the regular controller is easier -- but why would that decide it for you?

As for quality, I am floored you can get that much force feedback for such a small cost. It is a bargain. Be sure to plug it into the wall.

360 Wheel is fantastic. Great feedback and feels real solid attached to my table.

cant get used to playing with the wheel, dont know if i ever will.

Question for those who know GameStop. I purchased the wheel Friday, i like it but the size of my couch really makes me have to reach far down to use the brakes and gas. I was going to return the wheel, i called gamestop and they stated i could not get a full refund? The receipt has it written that Opened Accessories and All used items can be returned/exchanged within 7 days? Nothing about losing value of the item, does anyone know the exact return policy? Was the guy i called not informed or was he correct?

Bump

Anyone have any idea about gamestop return policies?

http://www.gamestop.com/gs/help/returnpolicy.asp

I don't enjoy using it so I put it up on ebay for $25 shipping + $65 buy it now. $90 total.

I barely used the thing--maybe for an hour---I just don't have a good setup for using it and I'm not spending hundred to buy one/make one.

Ebay ID# 180129931187

My question is that to those who have the wheel, does the 'game play experience' improve. Does the wheel do a better job than the joystick? Is it easier to control?.


I'll add my thoughts. The joystick is okay. Its much easier to properly control the car's turning and acceleration with the wheel setup. That being said, I get better times with the joystick. I still think that I can control the car better with the wheel.

The experience is where the wheel really shines. After playing with the wheel, I will never go back to the joystick. The wheel takes the fun factor of the game, and triples it. Its a very emersive experience with the wheel. Playing with the wheel is the closest I've come when playing a video game to truly escaping my reality and becoming one with the game. Its just awesome.

Question: will the MS wheel work with the PC if you have the wireless adapter?

Yes, but not for force feedback yet (unless they've come out with the drivers that they promised.)

I ended up calling Gamestop's main office line after calling the store and them telling me i only get what its worth back. Found out in that 7 day return timeframe you do get the full refund. I went into the store, had to speak with the manager but he got me the full value. I really liked the wheel, the problem is my setup. I just purchased leather lazyboy recliners, the height of the sofa made the reach for teh pedals feel like i was trying too hard. I didnt have a table to attach the steering wheel thanks the the ikea designs of every table we have, and i wasnt about to build a racing setup. If i did take the time to build that, the wife would kill me. Thanks for the help.

Hey Jeep, I know it's probably too late, but have you considered trying to elevate the pedals on something (even a pile of books, maybe)? I don't know how tall you are (I'm 6'6"), but I can see how the height and 'puffiness' of the lower portion of a Laziboy can take away leg length; the solution may be bringing the floor closer to you instead.

I thought about it Flagyl but if that problem was solved, then i still had the Wheel resting on my lap. The thing is, i loved how responsive it was, but it would have required too much work to get a setup i really would have been happy with. Plus since i was able to get a full return, i might just upgrade to the Elite.

I bought the wheel and returned it after 1 day of play. It had a mind of its own and was a PITA to control...besides the fact that mounting it to something requires an additional outlay for a desk or something.

And for the record I drive a 300HP Subaru STI daily in real life and prior drove and 03 S2000 so I know how to drive RWD and AWD. This damn thing was just had a crazy mind of its own.

I bought the wheel and returned it after 1 day of play. It had a mind of its own and was a PITA to control...besides the fact that mounting it to something requires an additional outlay for a desk or something.

And for the record I drive a 300HP Subaru STI daily in real life and prior drove and 03 S2000 so I know how to drive RWD and AWD. This damn thing was just had a crazy mind of its own.

i agree, i'm having trouble with the wheel, and i drive a 463hp audi tt in real life.

Yea, well i drive a 700 Hp viper ha ha, cmon guys, stop bragging :P

After a few days with the wheel, I would have to agree with those that say it enhances the game. What I did was turn all driving assistance off except for the ABS. It does take some practice to learn how the wheel reacts vs. the controller. Overall I would say Forza 2 is easier with the controller but 2x as enjoyable with the wheel.

the game is even more enjoyable with the Logitech Drive FX wheel IMO. I love it. I took my MS wheel back for it. The braking is sooo much better as is the deadzone at center. Sure the FFB is not as strong or the same feeling as the MS wheel, BUT its a very good feel and one that reminds me of playing a lot of PC sims over the last few years. ANyone on the fence about a wheel should really try the Logitech wheel.

The wheel takes a fair bit of practice and getting used to but I certainly think it's worth it after that. I think I went through about 4-5 phases of hating the thing before I finally got a handle on using it and now I couldn't imagine playing without it.

You definitely need something to mount it on though... just not comfortable at all in your lap imo.

Also not quite sure I follow the realism vs real world car comments... as if returning to the gamepad is providing a deep realistic racing experience? The wheel is far from perfect in terms of realism but definitely more immersive then pushing a little grey stick left and right. If you find yourself annoyed at fighting the wheel you can always put the FF at 50% or so.

the game is even more enjoyable with the Logitech Drive FX wheel IMO. I love it. I took my MS wheel back for it. The braking is sooo much better as is the deadzone at center. Sure the FFB is not as strong or the same feeling as the MS wheel, BUT its a very good feel and one that reminds me of playing a lot of PC sims over the last few years. ANyone on the fence about a wheel should really try the Logitech wheel.

hmmm, intersting. thanks for the info. Killer is I really like the wireless idea with the MS wheel. The logitech isn't wireless right?

I bought the MS Wireless Racing wheel over the weekend and I love it. It may take a bit of time to get used to using it, but it is well worth it in my opinion.

I've had the wheel for two days now, and I like it. I've gone through level 26 or 27 with the controller, so it's definitely taking some time to adjust to it because I've spent so much time with the controller. I can't match my lap times I made with the controller, but as far as which one makes the game more fun, the wheel wins hands down. It just takes a bit to get used to it.

BourbonNcigars

hmmm, intersting. thanks for the info. Killer is I really like the wireless idea with the MS wheel. The logitech isn't wireless right?
Considering the fact that you have a cord from the wheel to the peddles, and then a cord from the wheel to the wall, it never really gives you a "wireless" feel. :)


BourbonNcigars

If anyone has the MS wheel and hates the wobble in the steering column, send me a message, I have a solution for you.

If anyone has the MS wheel and hates the wobble in the steering column, send me a message, I have a solution for you.

Why not share this fix? Maybe you could make a new thread about it so people know what to do if that happens? Just a thought.

Why not share this fix? Maybe you could make a new thread about it so people know what to do if that happens? Just a thought.

plenty of people know about the bearing fix and it's all over the web... no secrets here.

http://andrewdorey.com/default.aspx?p=360wheel
http://www.youtube.com/user/lococnc

plenty of people know about the bearing fix and it's all over the web... no secrets here.


Yep, the videos are mine! I just didn't want to litter the board with self promotion. If anyone wants to do this mod and doesn't have the tools to do it, send me a message via YouTube (lococnc).

Picked up the xbox wheel last week. Put together this stand, I must it's a blast.

Playing it on a sony 50a10

You guys racing forza 2, if you're getting bored with the environments, suggest you try out Test Drive Unlimited by Atari.

Its not as much of a SIM as Forza is, but at the same time its not nearly as arcady as PGR3 (which also is a blast with the wheel once you learn the feel for the cars).

They did a really nice job making all the cars feel different....example Ferarris are much easier to drive (and recover when you feel it start to let go) than other cars, etc.

Anyways, its not a hard-core sim, but its a nice game that works well with the wheel and not always on peoples radar.

Reviving this thread for a wheel question. I just purchased a used one from somebody at work and realized this evening that it didn't have the installation disc with it. The first step in the manual says to "install the racing wheel software on your Xbox 360 console". Is this software available for download on the Xbox site? Does it allow for calibration of the wheel?

I only used it for about 5 minutes but it seemed very loose. Loose in that I had to turn it quite a bit for a response and to feel the force feedback. I was absolutely awful with it. Is that normal for first timers?

What game are you trying it out with? You should check the build date, the earlier models were pretty hit and miss. I had to return mine 3 times until I got a wheel with a correct center, mine were loose just like yours, kinda like a large dead zone.

Reviving this thread for a wheel question. I just purchased a used one from somebody at work and realized this evening that it didn't have the installation disc with it. The first step in the manual says to "install the racing wheel software on your Xbox 360 console". Is this software available for download on the Xbox site? Does it allow for calibration of the wheel?

Software is not needed..... it was incorporated into the 360's drivers a while back so you'll be fine.

What game are you trying it out with? You should check the build date, the earlier models were pretty hit and miss. I had to return mine 3 times until I got a wheel with a correct center, mine were loose just like yours, kinda like a large dead zone.

Can you tell the build date from the outside of the box? I've been considering picking one up, but don't want to get a dud.

Can you tell the build date from the outside of the box? I've been considering picking one up, but don't want to get a dud.

The new ones should be just fine. Its the ones that come in that giant box with the plastic covering displaying the actual wheel that you should be careful of.

I bought this back when it was $150 and it was worth every penny. Countless hours with Forza 2