Interact FX Racing Wheel

The Interact FX Racing Wheel is a one-of-a-kind controller, something that hasn't been done before or since. It is a handheld force-feedback steering-wheel controller with two control axes and seven buttons.

Interact FX Racing Wheel
Type	Steering Wheels
Brand	Interact
Launch	1999
Connectivity	Gameport Connector

Manufacturer's Description

• Ideal for force feedback racing games!
• Feel every bump, pull, and grove in the road
• Superb handling and control in compact, hand-held racing wheel
• 6 programmable buttons for maxium driving control
• Works with Microsoft DirectInput games for windows 95/98

Connection

It connects to a standard DA-15 gameport, but its drivers were never updated to NT-based operating systems like Windows 2000 or XP; it only works on Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows ME. Force feedback requires 2 AA batteries or an external power adapter (not provided).

Usage

The controller is held like an RC car controller, with a force-feedback wheel for steering, and a trigger that is pulled back to accelerate and pushed forward to brake. Four face buttons can be programmed in the driver software, as can the ESC and Enter buttons. The driver also allows various types of force feedback to be activated upon a button or trigger press. The Mode button toggles between Analog and Digital modes; however, even in analog mode, it does not appear to function without its drivers.

Technical specs

• 2-axis driving controller with force feedback.
• Seven buttons.
• DA-15 joystick port connectivity with custom drivers.

Reviews

"Overall the FX is a good controller for anyone who doesn’t have enough desk space to accommodate a full sized racing wheel and pedal set up, but who still wants better control than purely button based controllers can provide. Or, if your greatest desire is to fire up Dethkarz, set the view to rear elevated, and run the race as though you were racing a 3D rendered child’s toy, then this wheel is definitely for you. It fills a niche that has never really been explored much in PC racing controllers, and that alone makes it a cool novelty. But, if you really want the best in racing control, you’d be better advised to look at the FX Racing Wheel’s larger brethren."

• GameRevolution
• 1 April 1999

Credits

The description of this controller was provided by Brad Jones (@kazrak on Twitter)