I predict that there will come a time when computer based simulations are so realistic that they provide such a true representation of an activity that they are nearly discernable. High-end, multi-million dollar flight simulators are already very close to that, and can in fact be used to train and certify a pilot in a new type of aircraft, up to including huge planes like 747s, without requiring any flight time at all in an actual aircraft. As home computer technology continues to improve, I`m hoping that simulators of this fidelity will not only become available on our PCs, but will expand beyond flight simulation into some of the other areas we enjoy on our PCs. First amongst those on my wish list would be auto racing. Top tier racing, like many types of aviation, is financially out of our reach, so computer flight and racing sims are the closest we can get to the actual experience. But how realistic are the state-of-the-art racing sims that are available today? Well, I`m glad I asked since I just happen to be in the mood to review the newly released GTR 2, co-published by Viva Media and 10tacle Studios.

Just like its predecessor (GTR), GTR 2 is developed by the SimBin Development Team. SimBin is known for their intense attention to detail, as evidenced in all elements of the program including the physics engine, the race tracks, the racing rules, the intelligence of the computer-controlled opponents, the car models, and the engine sounds. In every category GTR 2 is very, very good, and might just be the best PC-based racing simulator available today. SimBin even managed to successfully balance the tight line between arcade-ish with a fast, quick learning curve and ultra-realistic but darn near impossible to master. At beginner level the game is very approachable for the novice, and at the pro level it`s challenging and satisfying for the experienced and well-equipped driver.

By "well-equipped," I`m not necessarily referring just to the horsepower of your PC and graphics board. You`ll need a bit of gumption in your box to be sure, but what I`m actually referring to are your steering wheel and pedals. You need them, and you need pretty goods ones if you want to drive at the pro level. I`m using a Logitech Momo Force and the pedals that came with it, and I`m very happy with both the sensitivity of the control and the force feedback effects of the wheel. The pedals offer a nice, smooth control as well. Without smooth and comfortable controls, it`s going to be a far greater challenge to make the laps times you`ll need to be competitive.

So, just what’s so special about GTR 2? It’s not any one thing, exactly, but the seamless integration of best-of-breed facets into a very satisfying package. Starting with the obvious, GTR is an acronym for GT Racing, and more specifically in this case, FIA GT Racing. The FIA is the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile, and is the sanctioning body behind other racing leagues such as World Cup Rally, Formula One, and a host of other primarily European racing series. GT is considered an endurance form of racing, and is mostly known for its 24 hour races, although there are shorter races throughout the season as well. It’s one of the few racing series where mid-race driver changes are de rigueur, and is also unique in some of the rules intended to keep the annual championship close and interesting. For example, there are wei...