We don't usually think of driving games on the Wii, but after seeing Logitech's new Wii Driving Force Wireless racing wheel we've changed our minds.
Most people probably don’t think of the Wii as a racing machine, especially as the current crop of accessories don’t support a traditional racing game experience. But that’s all about to change soon, thanks to a couple of big Wii releases announced at E3.
Better still, we got an exclusive look at some early prototypes when we met with Logitech’s Asia Pacific region product director, David Chu.
The new Wii wheel rocks
The Wii racing wheel will officially be called the ‘Driving Force Wireless’ and operates on a 2.4Gz wireless signal. The one-piece plastic steering kit is deceptively light and easy to hold. It fits comfortably on your lap, where it remains for ease of use. Better still, the wheel actually looks like it could take a few knocks and drops, as Logitech are well known for their product durability.
Two extendable plastic arms pull out from either side of the wheel, helping it to stay stable during game play. The on-board controls are reminiscent of the Wii, but you'll need to control the brake and accelerator pedals with two additional levels by hand, which can feel a little awkward.
Being wireless, there are no annoying cables dangling about (except for the long power supply lead) and the unit is painted a sparkling white, which seems like the perfect match for a Wii enthusiast.
Logitech’s excellent force feedback technology is also thankfully present. Logitech's cutting edge force feedback allows for multiple contours and vibrations of the road to be felt, including the various surfaces a racer may encounter over the course.
Unfortunately, Mr Chu told us that the racing wheel will not work with Mario Kart, but are working on a future fix he said.
Instead, the Driving Force Wireless will be co-released at the same time as the popular ‘Need for Speed’ title, ported to work exclusively with the Wii and the racing wheel.
Mr Chu said we can expect the Driving Force wireless to ship for around $149 when it races over here in either October or November this year. But we’re eagerly waiting for the day when force feedback Mario Kart is a reality.
Go online shopping with the Wii keyboard
In addition to sexy steering wheels, Logitech have custom built a cordless 2.4Gz 3/4 size QWERTY keyboard, designed specifically for the Wii. Designed for ease of use, the keyboard will include handy on board buttons, such as Zoom In/Out, Forward/Back, Quit and Ok.
The Wii keyboard is expected to available just in time for the release of the Wii internet channel, when Wii fans will be able interact with each other, surf the web and buy things online. The white keyboard looks like a Wii winner; it’s slim and light enough to store away without taking up wasted space.
The Wii keyboard will retail for $79.95 and be available from the end of August.