Following my decision to buy the Fanatec Podium in Direct Drive, I was not only looking for a support capable of firmly holding the steering wheel and pedals, but I also wanted a particular design, being above all a fan of F1.
So I chose the Formula Intelligence and upon receipt, I immediately understood that the quality was there and that no bending would tarnish the Direct Drive experience. Also, I think the design looks really great with the Fanatec Podium :-) I'm in love with this combo.
PRICE / QUALITY: it is true that by probing the market for Direct Drive compatible seats, we realize that there are cheaper alternatives and allowing other options for other games (Ex: support for lever of speed, handbrake, etc), but here it is clear that the seat is primarily aimed at fans of F1 or other GT racing. The price is therefore quite high, but unless I am mistaken, I have not found an F1 equivalent with such a nice design. The quality is there and you can feel it as soon as you take the elements out of the box. Moreover, it is Made in Europe. For people wishing to add a Direct Drive type Fanatec Podium, I also strongly recommend adding the "bracket" sold separately by Playseat and which actually holds the Fanatec steering wheel on the sides. The screws are supplied with and zero bending guaranteed!
FUN: it is clear that playing on the ground in this way, in the "pilot" position, provides another feeling at the wheel. For the F1 fan that I am it's a 5/5. Family and friends also loved this "simulation" position. Immersion by appointment!
DESIGN: as I said above, everything has been thought out to give us an "F1" feeling. The design is beautiful, the materials are robust, the finish neat. Everything is also adjustable in one minute if you want to swap the steering wheel with friends. A system of "clips" allows the steering wheel to slide forwards/backwards, and the seat is completely removable, like in a car. In addition, the seat really comes into its own in the room.
COMFORT: from the comfort point of view, there is not much to complain about. The seat is comfortable and if it may take some getting used to during one or two sessions, the position will quickly be adopted for hours of play. As mentioned before, everything is adjustable in just a minute, which adds another touch of comfort as well. For tall people like me, and the seat being really "placed" on the ground, it is not always easy to get out of the seat, but it is a detail that goes unnoticed as the pleasure of playing with it is greater.
It should be noted that the seat is neither too heavy nor light. Count approx. 45 Kg It can slip on a carpet or conversely settle permanently in a dedicated room. But if you have to put it away/push it one or two meters from the screen, it's not complicated, nor mission impossible. Personally I install it and put it away every time.
Again, surveying the market, I was surprised to discover a multitude of brands and choices. But I couldn't find an "F1" equivalent on the market. The price will often come up in discussions/forums, and that's understandable. But when you want to switch to Direct Drive I think you have to put your hand in your pocket anyway. For this Playseat, the quality is really there and I know that by taking care of it, I will get years of use and good value for my money. For F1 fans who want to afford it and who are hesitating, I think there is no need to hesitate any longer, in my opinion you will not regret it.
