One of the biggest announcements of the year (in the simRacing universe) has been the forthcoming availability of the new Fanatec’s CSL DD steering wheel base. This new entry level product is the first of its class having Direct Drive features on this range of price and is part of the CSL branch which is clearly focused on those people who are starting to enjoy simulation. This movement and price is pushing hard against two well established simRacing brands as Logitech and more specially, Thrustmaster. Logitech seems still a bit off of this, because you can purchase a complete set (steering, base and pedals) barely spending 250 dollars, but Thrustmaster tried to compete directly on prices and technology against Fanatec’s CSL and CSW series.
It is clear, that even being an entry level base, is not the cheapest one to start. As we said you can purchase a G29 yet and having a complete set compatible with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 without moving to the flimsy update known as G923. CSL series still require to get pedals and rims sold separately reaching almost 800~1000 dollars range for a complete set. Almost you can’t forget a PC (or console) and a cockpit are advisable to enjoy properly.
What many fellow guys has been wondering is if Fanatec plans to release a PlayStation 5 compatible CSL DD steering wheel base. Current announced model doesn’t have these capabilities and many people is eager to have a base like this on PS4 and PS5 titles. Podium is able to do this, but range prices are not affordable to everyone.
Being PS compatible takes time, and needs to be certified and tested by Sony itself. There are also associated costs to the fact of the use of PlayStation brand and compatibility, knowing as royalties. These are expected to be charged to the final customers, as in old CSL steering wheel bases where PlayStation models were 50 dollars more expensive.
If you currently check Fanatec store, you can see almost no stock is available from CSL and CSW series, being all marked as “available soon”. So this can be understood as not only a renewed CSL branch with all kind of new DD products at entry level is coming, but also a new CSW branch with DD products covering a gap ranging from 8Nm from CSL DD (+ Boost kit) and 15Nm from Podium DD1 steering wheel base could be announced soon.
The battle has begun and be sure no manufacturer will be giving up on this new Direct Drive market.
