Mad Catz MC2 Racing Wheel

You haven't fully experienced your driving and racing games until you've played them with Mad Catz new MC2 Racing Wheel. What's great and unique about this wheel is that you can now set your own level of sensitivity because we all know how every game varies. The first thing you'll come to love are the integrated LED lights on the dash which indicate just how fast you're going. You can cradle the wheel either on your lap or suck it down onto a flat surface. The pedal system is more advanced than other wheels. Vertical vector design allow the pedals to stay in place when you're taking curves at full speed. In terms of vibration, this wheel packs a real punch when you just happen to find yourself crashing through the pits at 220 kilometres per hour.

I reviewed this wheel with Burnout 3: Takedown. The first time around, my sensitivity was a little bit too loose. After adjusting it to my specifications, I was ready for another game. My handling was precise, my swaying was timed and my takedowns were more brutal than ever.

You can actually feel how much control you have over your vehicle. The gearshift is stylish and ergonomic. It feels great just throwing your car into gear and peeling out in front of opponents. The gear flaps behind the wheel are incredibly comfortable to use. You'll be double shifting in no time.

The AccuDrive Calibration System sets this racing wheel way above the norm. Previous wheels were never as customizable as this one.

In terms of appearance, she's a beauty. Her textured highlights and brushed finish makes this wheel call out for another game. The pedals don't feel cheap and light. They are grounded and textured as well to give you the sense of power with each step.

Ten high-performance buttons provide you with the control your vehicle demands from you. I find myself playing my racing games even more, and with greater precision now that I'm using the MC2. I have owned other racing wheels in the past and have not come across the performance handling I have come to expect until now. The wheel is easy to setup and intuitive to install. The wires that attach it to your Xbox are longer than normal, allowing you the space to install the wheel in your favourite position. For racing enthusiasts, I recommend building your own driver's seat with this wheel integrated into the design.

You won't be sorry. Very rarely will you come across a licensed Xbox accessory, but Mad Catz huge assortment of controllers and accessories are all officially licensed. If that isn't enough to have you run out and buy one, rest assured that this device comes with a 5 year warranty which I consider more than ample considering this wheel is sturdy and built tough. I commend Mad Catz for standing behind their products. Their accessories are atypical of imitators considering Mad Catz devices are built to last the rigours of the above average gamer.

The materials to build the racing wheel are not only stylish but break resistant. I have dropped the MC2 several times without even damaging the mechanism. What's good about the MC2 is that the more you play with it, the more you will enjoy its grip. Having the ability to modify the device's sensitivity is very important, especially with a game like Burnout 3: Takedown. In Burnout 3, Takedowns are of utmost importance. To perform a takedown, you must be in total control of your vehicle and be able to manipulate the other car into crashing.

The first time you use the MC2, you may find that you must swerve to a full extent to make a decent turn. After lower the sensitivity, you will become a master at curves because you have increased your dead zone. Overall, I'm giving the MC2 high marks for quality, performance and value. Go pick one up today and race to your full potential.

Oleg Mitskaniouk
01 AUG, 2006