After fan frustration: VR racing game EXOcars is bringing back steering wheel support for PSVR 2 release
The virtual reality racing game EXOcars aims to deliver high-end graphics and realistic driving mechanics on Playstation VR 2, but a recent decision by the developers sparked controversy in the gaming community.
The game promises an immersive VR racing experience on PSVR 2, featuring diverse tracks that span city streets, stadiums, deserts, mountains, and tropical landscapes. While multiplayer support was temporarily delayed pending Sony's approval (expected by late March), another announcement drew sharp criticism from fans: the developers planned to disable support for haptic steering wheel controllers.
Developer Xocus initially wanted all players, including those on the Steam version, to use only thumbsticks or the virtual steering wheel. Their reasoning was that haptic steering wheels might give some players an unfair competitive advantage.
Community feedback leads to policy change
The backlash from racing enthusiasts proved strong enough that Xocus quickly reversed course, announcing plans to restore steering wheel support in EXOcars. The studio acknowledged the community's concerns and developed a new approach to maintain competitive balance.
EXOcars is a native VR game with cross-platform competition.
Virtual steering is more challenging than physical wheels!
Together with the community, we have found a solution dividing leagues based on input types!
Waiting for new records soon! ? #EXOcars pic.twitter.com/w5kru2W7Sq- XOCUS 一 EXOcars is LIVE ? (@XocusVR) February 28, 2025
To accommodate different play styles, Xocus is now working to re-enable steering wheel support and compiling a list of compatible controller models through their Discord. The also want to offer separate leagues based on input types, allowing players to choose their preferred competitive environment.
The game's multiplayer mode will work across platforms without filtering matches based on input devices, maximizing the online player base by letting everyone compete together. Xocus says they're working to restore steering wheel support shortly after the game's PSVR 2 launch.
The recently on Steam and Quest 3 released VR racing game EXOcars is coming to PlayStation VR 2 on March 6.
Do you also think that haptic steering wheels are an advantage in competitive VR racing games? Join the conversation on Facebook, Bluesky or X or share your opinion in the comments below.
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