|
 The
new, affordable WingMan Formula Force GP is a force feedback steering
wheel with realistic pedals, rubber handgrips for comfort and control, two
wheel-mounted gear shifters, and four programmable buttons. As is the case
with most USB products, the Formula Force GP installs in a few quick
steps. Powered by an external AC adapter with a six-foot cord, the wheel
is a mere ten inches wide, the same width as the wheel itself, and it only
extends six inches onto the surface on which it's mounted.
The
mounting clamps themselves are small, versatile, and easy to use.
Unfortunately, they're made entirely of hard plastic and lack any
rubber coating to make them secure. As such, frequent re-tightening of the
clamps is required or the wheel will often come loose from the mounting
surface.
The Formula Force GP has a polished, solid feel to it, from the rubberized
grip to its ergonomic shape. The pedals are mounted high in the rear of
their base for a much more realistic feel than is too often found with
other pedals. Sadly, the base doesn't weigh much and there’s no real
traction on the underside, so it tended to slip on both carpet and
linoleum.
The
Formula Force GP's four thumb buttons, placed in symmetrical pairs on
either side of the wheel, are easily reachable. Left and right
trigger-style buttons are just beyond the comfortable resting area of the
fingertips, which helps avoid accidental button presses but keeps them in
easy range.
Force-feedback
effects are strong, offering sharp, convincing jolts and jitters. The
wheel has a 180-degree range of motion, which is wide enough for precise
cornering and tight enough to prevent players from having to remove their
hands from the wheel. While
playing with a slightly gritty feel in non-force-feedback games, the wheel
does simulate an amazingly smooth center spring.
The Logitech WingMan Formula Force GP has a surprisingly low price and is
a great wheel for the money. We
had a blast testing it with Midtown
Madness 2! A better clamping system and weighted or
textured base for the pedals are all that’s keeping this wheel from
enjoying the pole position.
--Al
Wildey |
