Driving Performance

Power is nothing without Control

Unfortunately, the effect of the cheap materials used and felt in the Formula Force GP is far more reaching than simple look or materialistic concerns. Due to its construction, the wheel vibrates at almost an unbearable level at times, forcing the user manually turning the strength down. Somehow, the wheel manages to resonate with the force feedback effects, much more so than most wheels that I've tested. Furthermore, it can vibrate on the desk enough so that it moves laterally, which is yet another annoyance.

The Formula Force GP's propensity to vibrate heavily adversely affects its performance in simple force feedback titles with only basic force feedback elements. The wheel suffers far more in the simple, "vibrate when passing over cobblestone" games than in ones with a full working physics model that determines wheel effects. Thus, in order for the Formula Force GP to truly succeed, it requires good force feedback software implementation by game developers.

Bundled with the Formula Force GP is Logitech's standard Wingman Profiler software for customizing the controller's buttons. With a driving wheel however, this software isn't used very much. Gamers will most likely use Logitech's control panel extension, for customization of force feedback settings and strength, far more frequently (particularly due to the resonating vibration this wheel is prone to). Thankfully, this control panel extension is well designed and offers quick and easy access to the wheels important options.

Gaming Performance

The Need for Speed: Porsche Unlimited is an example of excellent force feedback, being a title where effects reach far beyond simple collisions and ground effects. From minute changes in touch signaling the need to shift, to early communication of dangerous body roll, the force feedback effects in Need for Speed: Porsche Unlimited are not to be missed. In fact, the Formula Force GP's rendition of force feedback in NFS:PU is one of the better that I've experienced. With the Formula Force GP and NFS:PU, the force feedback effects communicate enough to the driver, so that they effects actually help performance instead of just being a gimmick.

On the other hand, the Formula Force GP's performance is less impressive in Colin McRae Rally 2, a title where the need for jittery road effects (for gravel, mud, etc.) gets frighteningly annoying for the vibrate-happy wheel. Since excess vibration isn't contained or controlled by the wheel, it can adversely affect and hide other more important feedback effects. Holding onto a shaking piece of plastic doesn't exactly translate a realistic driving experience to the gamer.

Beyond these questionable effects at times, the Formula Force GP performs very well. Driving control is very smooth and precise. With force feedback turned off, racing with the Formula Force GP can be a relaxing experience, as you easily skirt around corners with your hands gently resting on its ergonomic grips. In fact, the wheel's precision is good enough to satisfy even the most competitive racers.