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

Relying on how “hardcore” you need 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 observed the enormous steering wheel caught into the middle of the controller. After I first wrapped my palms round it, I anticipated to thumb a loose-feeling circle laid awkwardly in the course of the system. In actuality, the wheel hums with power 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 underneath your thumbs. That’s because of the miniaturized drive motor and a further three haptic motors to supply a visceral really feel. No, you received’t be tricked into imagining you’re driving an actual Ferrari at 200 mph. It’s merely a extra pleasing method 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 recreation participant. He stated he wished he may have a full-feedback racing system with out the huge haul of simulationist controls it’s essential to get there.

For the sake of that really feel, the controller has to make a couple of sacrifices. Chief amongst these is the suitable thumbstick. As a substitute of the same old 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 scale back the prospect of stick drift, however you received’t use this controller for something however racing.

The controller received’t be accessible till the second half of this yr. The preliminary iteration of the design nonetheless wants a couple of tweaks and ending touches. Core instructed me he and his group had solely completed the prototype shortly earlier than coming to CES. As for worth, the designer instructed me GameSir was focusing on a worth of someplace north of $200.

Even if you happen to’re not a racing fan, I can think about this controller would make dodging cops in Grand Theft Auto VI really feel further visceral. We’ll know the way properly each the controller and recreation carry out once they (hopefully) launch later this yr.

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