High School Innovator Creates Direct Drive Sim Racing Wheel for GameSir Controllers

CES is set to showcase some of the most outlandish tech and innovative gaming ideas we’ve seen in the past year. One of the standout highlights in the gaming hardware scene for CES 2026 is an intriguing new product from GameSir. They’re taking one of the top PC controllers and integrating a Direct Drive sim racing wheel, making waves in the gaming community.

Introducing the GameSir Swift Drive. Based on a teaser trailer released in early December, it appears that the brand has repurposed the body of the now-discontinued GameSir Tarantula Pro, incorporating a compact Direct Drive steering wheel into its design, challenging the best PC racing wheels on the market.

What’s particularly fascinating is the backstory behind its development. A Reddit post from user “B-Core” on r/SimRacing reveals that the concept originated from a high school project, crafted using 3D printing, open-source software, and limited experience.

“I had this idea and built a stripped-down version back in high school because I lived in a tiny dorm, but my friends always invited me to play AC or Elite Dangerous, so I really wanted a wheel/flight setup,” they shared.

Eventually, B-Core connected with GameSir, securing funding for the project, and now at CES, the controller is one of the main attractions for this prominent brand.

While official details are still under wraps, B-Core hints that the Swift Drive might retail for around $150, potentially making it GameSir’s priciest controller to date.

This could be a game-changer for sim racing enthusiasts who want to avoid the hassle and cost of a full wheel and pedal setup. With Direct Drive technology, players can expect precise feedback and resistance while steering, enhancing the immersive experience that sim racing hardware aims to provide.

However, it’s worth noting that the concept bears a resemblance to the Thrustmaster eSwap XR, albeit without the advanced features. The idea of attaching a steering wheel to a gamepad isn’t entirely new either; the Namco Jogcon paved the way long before this.

In a somewhat mysterious twist, GameSir’s announcement trailer for the Swift Drive also hints at a complete racing wheel setup. Initially, it seemed like a concept rather than a fully realized product. However, the video’s title suggests two new offerings, with the F1-style wheel possibly named the Turbo Drive. The video description ominously states, “The SHIFT is coming,” hinting at the brand’s transition into the sim racing arena.