INTRODUCTION

   Racing games may no longer have the same "prestige" and "wow factor" as they did 10 years ago (or even in the 90's thanks to the launch of the Need For Speed and Test Drive series) but for some gamers they are irreplaceable and with new and upcoming titles like Dirt 4, Need For Speed Payback, Gran Turismo Sport, Forza Motorsport 7 and The Crew 2 things are really looking up. Personally i still miss the days when I’d walk 3 kilometers just to get to the billiards that had the brand new (then) Sega Rally Championship racing game arcade (on Sega's Model 2 board) only so i could test my skills driving the amazing Lancia Stratos. The Sega Rally Championship was also the first racing game i ever played using a steering wheel and till this day i can't say I’ve found a racing wheel that could offer me the same experience. The Japanese Hori may not be among the most popular gaming peripherals manufacturers in the market like Logitech or Razer but they've actually been around for much longer and today we'll be taking a look at their latest APEX Racing Wheel.

   Founded in 1969 and working closely with games console manufacturers from 1983, Hori Co. Ltd was one of the first 3rd party accessory makers in the world. We have been the leading accessory manufacturer in Japan for almost 30 years, during which time we have pioneered many concepts that have made gaming more enjoyable and accessible to everyone, while also creating unique products that appeal to hardcore and niche gaming markets. Since 2004, Hori has expanded its operations globally and now has offices in the US, Hong Kong, and the UK, enabling worldwide distribution and swift and effective customer service.

   The APEX Racing Wheel doesn't feature any type of force feedback (no internal motors) nor does it come with a manual gear shifter and a clutch pedal (not available even as extra) so it's quite evident that HORI wanted to release an affordable product aimed towards not so demanding gamers. Still the 280mm diameter wheel features rubberized textured areas (optimal grip), 13 programmable buttons, basic multi-level vibration feedback (via bungee cord probably - not to be mistaken for force feedback), 270 degrees max rotation (adjustable down to 180 for faster response - quick handling mode), adjustable sensitivity, paddle shifters, directional pad, adjustable dead zone and two different installation options (suction cups and table clamp). The foot pedals on the other hand may not seem or feel as impressive as the wheel itself but it still features adjustable sensitivity and a retractable foot rest for increased stability. Last but not least the APEX Racing Wheel by Hori is fully compatible with Playstation 3/4 game consoles and PC.