Hey there, virtual drift fans!
We're kicking off a series of articles about the game mechanics of CarX Drift Racing Online 2.
We will start by introducing the new car control system, as the basic principles of control on the gamepad and keyboard have changed compared to the previous game, and players who have experience with our other projects will need time to adapt.
In the new physics model, we paid a lot of attention to the realism of the drift car's behavior. A mathematical model of the suspension has been implemented, and the controls on the gamepad and keyboard are now very similar in nature to drifting with a steering wheel. The front wheels behave similarly to a real car. When turning and shifting, the forces arising at the point of contact between the tires and the track are transmitted through the struts, steering rods to the steering rack, which rotates the steering wheel in the desired direction with the necessary force. On the other hand, the player acts on the stick or keyboard buttons, generating a force that assists or counteracts the rotation of the steering wheel. This control method allows us to completely abandon artificial assistance, which breaks the connection between the player and physics. In the video, we can see how well the timing and nature of interaction with the controller now correspond for the steering wheel and gamepad.
Of course, we realize that drifting is now somewhat more difficult than in our other projects, but we believe that the hours spent learning will pay off in pure enjoyment from interacting with realistic physics in the future.
For fine-tuning the controls, we have introduced several parameters that are worth discussing in more detail:
Grip Racing Assist
An experimental assist to make control easier in non-drift modes (for example, Time Attack). Helps keep the car stable on straights and during fast sections.
Angle Maintaining Assist
An experimental assist that helps prevent major mistakes when applying too much throttle. It reduces the chance of a full spin when you over-throttle.
Automatic Clutch
Automatically depresses the clutch for gear shifts — useful for players who prefer simplified shifting.
Slip Angle Limitation
Prevents excessive sideways slip of the front wheels (understeer). You can set the acceptable slip angle at which the system limits front wheel steering.
Brake Force Limit (Two-Pedal Mode Only)
Active only when using a two-pedal setup. Reduces braking force while throttle is held, making it easier to control the drift angle in a corner and avoiding unnecessary speed loss.
Hand Strength
Fine-tunes steering response. Higher values simulate stronger hands — the steering input becomes sharper and more immediate.
Steering Wheel Retention
Fine-tunes how strongly the driver resists steering movement. Higher values increase the self-centering/holding force, helping the wheel stay in a steady position.