Read indepth magazine
Race Simulator For the Home Unveiled
The Takuma Sato Playseat, billed as offering gamers a professional race simulator experience in the comfort of their home, has been launched.
Endorsed by Japanese Formula One racing driver, Takuma Sato, the Playseat can be used with a host of racing games on consoles including the X-Box, PS2 and Wii. It will cost around $600 and will be exclusively marketed in Japan.
Designed by motorsport fan Dr. Fernando Smit, each Playseat features a unique, patented folding mechanism. The foldable seat is combined with a steel frame that is adjustable for both height and length to help users achieve the best driving position.
Mr Smit, founder and CEO of Playseats, said: “When I first designed the Playseat I aimed to create the most professional racing seat for gamers; one with very high quality, good engineering and suitable for almost all consoles, steering wheels and pedal sets.
“I am confident that the Takuma Sato edition of the Playseat will prove popular with race fans and gamers in Japan, and help give them the ultimate simulator experience at home.”
After first racing in karts in 1996, Takuma Sato made his Formula One debut with Jordan in 2002. He achieved a podium finish at the US Grand Prix in 2005 before joining Super Aguri in 2006.
Mr Sato said: “I first saw the Playseat at the Monaco Grand Prix last year and realise it brings games fans and drivers the opportunity to feel a realistic racing experience.
“With racing games becoming more and more realistic the Playseat certainly completes the experience.”
"I first saw the Playseat at the Monaco Grand Prix last year and realise it brings games fans and drivers the opportunity to feel a realistic racing experience"