Software attributes
Other attributes
iRacing is a subscription-based online racing simulation video game developed and published by iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations in 2008. All in-game sessions are hosted on the publisher's servers. The game simulates real world cars, tracks, and racing events, and enforces rules of conduct modeled on real auto racing events.[1][2][3]
Gameplay
iRacing primarily focuses on creating an environment in game that will mimic real-life driving close as possible, including the use of LIDAR-scanned cars and tracks.[1][4] Without special settings either set in a custom session or by administrators, players are confined to a cockpit-only view when driving, in contrast to other popular sim racing games like Gran Turismo or Assetto Corsa.
iRacing offers a day-night-cycle, offering more dynamic racing due to temperature variation and limited sight at night.[5]
It provides support for racing wheels and gamepads alike, but it is generally recommended to use a racing wheel, support for adaptive controls used by players with physical challenges is also included.[6]iRacing also supports the use of VR headsets.[7]
iRacing.com released AI capable driving in late 2019,[8] which continues to see more tracks and cars added to AI capability as the releases of the game go on.[9]
The game also has a rather realistic visual damage physics if the modders have paid attention to it. The behavior of the car is immediately altered, slightly or strongly, depending on the seriousness of the accident. For example, a shock that distorted the right front suspension will force the player to keep the steering wheel turned to the left, so that the car stays in a straight line. The pit-stop cutscenes are also realistic, and differ from one category to another (you don't change the wheels of a NASCAR car like those of a Formula 1 car!). On the other hand, the damage cannot be repaired at the pits, except in a minor way (change of front wing for the single-seater categories without fairing).
A player eliminated for disqualification or accident finds himself at his stand, and can attend the race as a spectator. During the event itself, a spectator can view footage recorded earlier, for example, his own accident or the causes of his disqualification, and see it from a large number of angles.
During the race, a track engineer informs the driver by radio, telling him if a car is near him ("Car left"). Only available in English, the engineer can also inform the driver about the time separating him from the previous or following car, as well as the general condition of the car, tires and engine. Engineer information is captioned in red at the bottom of the screen.
