Sim racing games on PC and console: which to play and with what hardware
The game you play shapes the hardware you need. A demanding PC simulator does not ask for the same things as a more accessible console game. This guide covers the main sim racing titles, their platforms and the compatible hardware in our catalogue, with prices checked on 6 October 2026.
MOZA R12 V2 · Image: manufacturerWhy the game shapes your hardware choice
Each game runs on specific platforms. If your favourite sim only exists on PC, a console-compatible base gives you nothing extra. Conversely, a PS5 player has to choose from the wheels stated as PlayStation compatible.
The type of racing matters too. Circuit sims reward detailed force feedback and a consistent brake. Rally demands quick reactions and benefits from dedicated accessories. More accessible games work very well with an entry-level wheel.
Our guide to PS5, Xbox and PC wheel compatibility covers the compatibility of every model in our catalogue.
The main games and their platforms
The table sums up the platforms and main discipline of each title. Availability can change, so check the game's official page before you buy.
| Game | Platforms | Main discipline |
|---|---|---|
| Assetto Corsa Competizione | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | GT3 and GT4, GT World Challenge series |
| iRacing | PC | Multi-discipline, subscription-based online racing |
| Le Mans Ultimate | PC | Endurance, FIA World Endurance Championship |
| Gran Turismo 7 | PS5, PS4 | Multi-discipline, car collection |
| F1 25 | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S | Formula 1 |
| EA Sports WRC | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S | Rally, WRC championship |
| Assetto Corsa EVO | PC | Circuit sim, road and race cars |
PC sims: iRacing, Le Mans Ultimate, Assetto Corsa EVO
iRacing is a subscription-based online sim. Races are organised by category, with a licence system that rewards consistency and clean driving. The tracks are scanned with great precision. Le Mans Ultimate, developed by Studio 397, is the official game of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Assetto Corsa EVO, from Kunos Simulazioni, is the new sim in the Assetto Corsa series, launched in early access.
On PC, the whole catalogue is available, including high-end wheel bases. A mid-range base such as the MOZA R12 V2 or the Simagic Alpha EVO Sport is enough to enjoy these sims. More committed drivers can look at a Simucube 2 Sport or a MOZA R21 Ultra.
Our best PC racing wheel ranking and the best direct drive wheel base page help you choose. To find a torque level that suits these sims, read our guide on how much torque you need.
Gran Turismo 7: the PlayStation player's choice
Gran Turismo 7, developed by Polyphony Digital, is only available on PS5 and PS4. It offers a career mode, a large car collection and online competitions. You can play it with a controller, but a wheel transforms the experience.
Fanatec offers a range carrying the official Gran Turismo licence. The Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro base is rated at 8 Nm peak with the included Boost Kit 180, for €499.95 when checked on 6 October 2026. The Gran Turismo DD Pro 5 Nm bundle, with a wheel and pedals, was checked at €649.95.
- Tight budget: Thrustmaster T248R, checked at €249.99, or the Logitech G923 PlayStation/PC version, €299.
- Affordable direct drive: Thrustmaster T598, checked at €449.99.
- High end: Fanatec ClubSport DD+, 18 Nm holding torque, €799.95.
Our best PS5 racing wheel ranking compares these options in detail.
ACC, F1 25 and EA Sports WRC: PC and console
Assetto Corsa Competizione, from Kunos Simulazioni, is the official game of the GT World Challenge series. It focuses on GT3 and GT4 cars. F1 25, developed by Codemasters and published by EA, recreates the Formula 1 season. EA Sports WRC, also by Codemasters, is the official game of the World Rally Championship.
On Xbox, your choice of wheel goes through Xbox/PC versions or through bases that work with a licensed wheel. The Fanatec CSL DD 8 Nm works on Xbox with a Fanatec wheel carrying the Xbox licence, according to Fanatec. The MOZA R16 Ultra does so through the ESX wheel, according to MOZA. See our best Xbox racing wheel ranking.
Rally: specific needs
In rally, the car is sliding almost all the time. The force feedback needs to be responsive so you can catch slides quickly. A direct drive base conveys this information well, but a belt-driven wheel is already plenty of fun.
Rally also benefits from a handbrake and a sequential or H-pattern shifter. These accessories are easier to fit to a cockpit. The Sim-Lab GT1 Evo includes a side mount for a shifter and a handbrake, according to Sim-Lab. The Trak Racer TR160 V5 comes with a TR Gen 2 shifter mount, according to Trak Racer.
Our sim racing cockpit buying guide compares the frames and their accessory options.
Which hardware for which kind of player?
- Casual PS5 player on Gran Turismo 7 or F1 25: a belt-driven bundle such as the T248R or the G923.
- Regular PS5 player: Thrustmaster T598 or the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro range.
- Xbox player: Xbox/PC versions of the T248 or T598, or a Fanatec base with an Xbox-licensed wheel.
- PC beginner on ACC or iRacing: MOZA R5 bundle or Fanatec CSL DD Ready2Race.
- Demanding PC driver on Le Mans Ultimate or iRacing: a base of 12 Nm or more, a load cell brake and a rigid cockpit.
These pointers do not replace your budget and available space. To build a complete package, see our budget beginner sim racing setup guide or the rig builder.
If you are moving up to a firmer brake for circuit racing, our guide to load cell pedals explains what the upgrade brings and what to check before buying.
Figures from official manufacturer spec sheets and market prices checked on 6 October 2026. Not a hands-on test: see our methodology.
Frequently asked questions
Which sim racing game is best for beginners?
On PS5, Gran Turismo 7 is an accessible starting point. On PC, Assetto Corsa Competizione lets you focus on GT cars. iRacing requires a subscription but offers structured online racing.
Is iRacing available on console?
No, iRacing is a PC sim. To play it, you need a PC and a PC-compatible wheel, which opens up our whole catalogue.
Is Gran Turismo 7 available on PC?
No. Gran Turismo 7 is exclusive to PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Your wheel therefore needs to be stated as PlayStation compatible.
Do I need a different wheel for each game?
No. A wheel that is compatible with your platform works with every game that supports it. You then adjust the force feedback settings in each game.
