GameSir stuck a steering wheel inside a controller, and it’s really cool

Depending on how “hardcore” you are, a complete rig for a full-fledged gaming steering wheel and pedals is a must for any racing enthusiast. Nothing comes close to a simulationist setup, but GameSir may have the answer to making racing with a controller much more tactile and, dare I say it, more enjoyable.

The GameSir Swift Drive, announced during CES 2026is a surprisingly complete controller in its own right. You’ve probably already noticed the giant steering wheel stuck in the center of the controller. When I first wrapped my hands around it, I expected to make a loose circle sitting awkwardly in the middle of the device. In fact, the steering wheel buzzes with the force feedback you usually get with high-end racing wheels. When a car drives on gravel or rocky terrain, you will feel the push and pull of the wheel under your thumbs. This is due to the miniaturized drive motor and three additional haptic motors to provide a visceral sensation. No, you won’t be tricked into imagining you’re driving a real Ferrari at 200 mph. It’s simply a more enjoyable way to take your digital car for a spin.

I spoke with GameSir CEO and lead controller designer, Betta Core. He told me that his initial concept for the device came from his youth as a racing game player. He said he wishes he could have a full-feedback racing machine without the huge amount of simulationist controls you need to make it happen.

For this feeling, the controller must make some sacrifices. Chief among them is the right joystick. Instead of the usual flat lily pad for your thumb, there’s a right button that you’ll use to check your six o’clock when you’re in the cockpit of a car. Both the stick and button are Hall effect to reduce the chance of stick drift, but you’ll only use this controller for racing.

The controller will not be available until the second half of this year. The first iteration of the design still needs some tweaking and finishing. Core told me that he and his team completed the prototype shortly before coming to CES. As for price, the designer told me that GameSir is aiming for a price north of $200.

Even if you’re not a racing fan, I imagine this controller would help avoid the cops. Grand Theft Auto VI feeling very visceral. We’ll know how well the controller and game perform when they (hopefully) launch later this year.

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