Switching from iRacing to Le Mans Ultimate: A Thrilling New Journey
In my previous blog post, I shared my excitement about iRacing being my go-to simulation game. However, over the past two months, my perspective has dramatically shifted. I have now fully immersed myself in the new game, Le Mans Ultimate (LMU), which is currently in its pre-release state and focuses on the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
Despite being in pre-release, LMU already showcases impressive maturity with its fantastic cars, realistic track physics, and robust netcode. My attention has shifted to the Hypercar and LMP2 classes, which are both brutal and raw. Previously, I was deeply invested in the GT3 mindset, enjoying the great cars that felt somewhat on rails and were popular among racers. However, Hypercar and LMP2 vehicles are a different beast altogether. They demand meticulous planning, strategic tactics, and I absolutely love the longer racing formats they offer.
I play LMU in virtual reality (VR) and on my widescreen monitor, depending on my mood. Generally, for longer races, I prefer the widescreen setup as VR can be quite intense and less comfortable over extended periods. In just six weeks, I achieved the “gold” safety rating, allowing me to participate in online races with other enthusiasts who drive with respect and care. The rookie (or bronze) classes can be chaotic, especially at the first chicane in Monza, but as you climb the ranks, the racing experience improves significantly. Surviving the lower classes and ranking up can take some time, but it’s worth the effort.
The online race system in LMU is well-designed, with races starting every hour or 30 minutes across various skill levels. Their matchmaking system is excellent, ensuring you always compete against players of similar class and skill level. The car dynamics, controls, and tire model in LMU are among the best, making the driving experience incredibly immersive and enjoyable. Longer races require careful planning for fuel stops and tire changes, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game.
While iRacing also offers these features, driving Hypercars in iRacing feels vastly different compared to LMU—it’s like entering a whole new world. I eagerly await the full release of LMU, hoping they add a few more tracks and new cars for the 2025 season. This would make me incredibly happy and excited for the future of this fantastic game.
Stay tuned for more updates on my racing adventures! 🚗💨
How does this look? Feel free to let me know if you’d like any changes or additions!