GameSir Caught a Steering Wheel Inside a Controller, and It is Truly Good

Relying on how “hardcore” you wish to be, a complete equipment for a full-fledged gaming racing wheel and pedals is a should for any racing aficionado. Nothing will come near a simulationist setup, however GameSir might have the reply to make racing with a controller really feel much more tactile and, dare I say it, extra pleasing.

The GameSir Swift Drive, introduced throughout CES 2026, is a surprisingly full controller by itself. You’ve possible already seen the large steering wheel caught into the middle of the controller. After I first wrapped my arms round it, I anticipated to thumb a loose-feeling circle laid awkwardly in the midst of the system. In actuality, the wheel hums with drive suggestions you normally get with high-end racing wheels. When a automobile rolls over gravel or rocky terrain, you’ll really feel the push and pull of the wheel below your thumbs. That’s because of the miniaturized drive motor and an extra three haptic motors to supply a visceral really feel. No, you gained’t be tricked into imagining you’re driving an actual Ferrari at 200 mph. It’s merely a extra pleasing approach to take your digital automobile out for a drive.

I spoke with GameSir’s CEO and the controller’s lead designer, Betta Core. He instructed me his preliminary idea for the system got here from his youth as a racing sport participant. He mentioned he wished he may have a full-feedback racing system with out the large haul of simulationist controls it’s worthwhile to get there.

For the sake of that really feel, the controller has to make just a few sacrifices. Chief amongst these is the correct thumbstick. As a substitute of the standard flat lily pad to your thumb, there’s a proper nub you’ll use for checking your six o’clock when in a automobile’s cockpit. The stick and nub are each Corridor impact to cut back the prospect of stick drift, however you gained’t use this controller for something however racing.

The controller gained’t be obtainable till the second half of this 12 months. The preliminary iteration of the design nonetheless wants just a few tweaks and ending touches. Core instructed me he and his crew had solely completed the prototype shortly earlier than coming to CES. As for value, the designer instructed me GameSir was focusing on a value of someplace north of $200.

Even for those who’re not a racing fan, I can think about this controller would make dodging cops in Grand Theft Auto VI really feel additional visceral. We’ll know the way properly each the controller and sport carry out after they (hopefully) launch later this 12 months.

Gizmodo is on the bottom in Las Vegas all week bringing you all the pieces it’s worthwhile to know in regards to the tech unveiled at CES 2026. You’ll be able to observe our CES live blog here and find all our coverage here.