The Fanatec Gran Turismo® DD Extreme, priced at $1,299.95 plus applicable shipping and taxes, represents a significant advancement in sim racing technology. This direct drive system, designed in collaboration with Polyphony Digital, offers an unparalleled racing experience on PlayStation® platforms and PC.
Build and Design The GT DD Extreme’s steering wheel features a premium vegan leather grip that mimics the feel of a high-performance GT road car. The 300 mm diameter wheel is complemented by a suite of advanced inputs including four 5-way directional sticks, 19 RGB LEDs, and large magnetic paddle shifters. The tactile feedback from these components is crisp and responsive, making every interaction feel immediate and impactful.
Display and Feedback A standout feature is the 2.7” OLED display, which enhances usability by displaying the Tuning Menu and telemetry data. This is surrounded by RGB LED rings, a RevLED strip, and FlagLEDs, adding a layer of immersion and functionality that is visually impressive and useful for tracking performance metrics.
Force Feedback Technology At the heart of the system is the ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base, equipped with a 15 Nm servo motor. This motor utilizes Fanatec’s patented FullForce technology, which is a game-changer in terms of delivering realistic, high-fidelity force feedback. The new protocol is designed specifically for direct drive systems and allows for high-frequency vibrations, conveying nuances like engine revs and road textures with incredible precision.
Performance The DD Extreme shines with its performance. The direct drive setup ensures that feedback is not only strong but extremely detailed, allowing drivers to feel subtleties in the road surface and car handling that belt and gear-driven systems can’t match. The motor’s design reduces cogging torque and, when combined with FluxBarrier technology, results in smooth and clear force feedback.
Compatibility Designed specifically for PlayStation®5, the GT DD Extreme is also fully compatible with PlayStation®4 and PC. This broad compatibility ensures that the wheel base can be a central component of any sim racing setup, capable of running with all major racing games across these platforms.
Thermal Stability The thermal design of the ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base is another critical aspect. It is built to remain thermally stable even under the most demanding conditions, ensuring consistent performance no matter the duration of use. This is a vital feature for endurance racers and those who participate in long practice sessions.
Conclusion The Fanatec Gran Turismo® DD Extreme sets a new standard for sim racing equipment. With its robust build quality, advanced technology, and superior performance, it is an ideal choice for serious sim racers seeking a professional-grade setup. While the price point is high, the quality and features justify the investment for those dedicated to having the most immersive and responsive racing experience possible. This system not only meets but exceeds expectations, making it a top recommendation for anyone looking to upgrade their sim racing hardware.
