How Do You Burn Rubber: A Guide to Drifting in Racing Games
In the world of racing games, few techniques are as exhilarating and rewarding as burning rubber, also known as drifting. Whether you’re playing classics like Need for Speed or modern titles like Forza Horizon, mastering the art of drifting can give you an edge over your competitors and make your gaming experience even more thrilling. But how do you burn rubber like a pro? Let’s dive into the essentials of drifting in racing games and explore some expert tips to help you dominate the tracks.
Understanding the Basics of Burning Rubber
Burning rubber, or drifting, is a driving technique where the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to slide sideways. This is often used in racing games to maintain speed through tight corners or to gain style points in arcade-style racers. However, drifting isn’t just about flooring the accelerator; it requires precision, timing, and a good understanding of your vehicle’s physics.
1. Choose the Right Car
Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars are typically the best for burning rubber, as they allow for easier control over the rear wheels. Additionally, cars with a high horsepower-to-weight ratio tend to drift more easily. If you’re playing a game like Gran Turismo or Assetto Corsa, experiment with different vehicles to find the one that suits your drifting style.
2. Learn the Controls
Before you start drifting, familiarize yourself with the game’s controls. Most racing games allow you to adjust settings like traction control and stability control. Turning these off will make your car more prone to sliding, which is exactly what you want for burning rubber.
The Art of Burning Rubber: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s move on to the fun part: actually burning rubber.
1. Build Up Speed
To initiate a drift, you need to be moving at a decent speed. Find a straight section of the track or an open area where you can accelerate without obstacles. The ideal speed will depend on the car and the surface, but aim for a speed that gives you control without being too slow.
2. Brake and Accelerate
As you approach a corner or a spot where you want to drift, lightly tap the brake to transfer weight to the front wheels. This will make the rear wheels lose traction more easily. Immediately after braking, hit the accelerator to send power to the rear wheels and start the drift.
3. Countersteer
Once your car starts sliding, countersteer by turning the wheel in the opposite direction of the drift. This will help you maintain control and keep the drift going. Be careful not to overcorrect, as this can cause your car to spin out.
4. Feather the Throttle
To sustain the drift, feather the throttle by gently pressing and releasing the accelerator. This will keep your speed consistent and prevent the drift from ending abruptly.
Advanced Techniques: Taking Your Drifting to the Next Level
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to refine your skills with some advanced techniques.
1. Continuous Drifting
Continuous drifting involves chaining multiple drifts together without losing momentum. This is particularly useful in games like Need for Speed: Heat, where drifting earns you style points and boosts. To achieve this, focus on smooth transitions between drifts by adjusting your countersteering and throttle control.
2. Using the Environment
The environment in racing games can be your best friend when it comes to drifting. Look for wide corners, hairpins, or even ramps to practice your skills. In games like Forza Horizon 5, you can even drift on dirt roads or snow-covered surfaces for a unique challenge.
3. Tuning Your Car
If the game allows it, tuning your car can make it more drift-friendly. Adjust the suspension, differential, and braking settings to optimize your car’s handling. A well-tuned car will respond better to your inputs, making it easier to burn rubber.
Real-World Inspiration: Learning from Racing Games
While this guide focuses on gaming, it’s worth noting that real-world drifting has inspired many of the mechanics you’ll find in racing games. Games like Initial D: Arcade Stage and Wreckfest take cues from professional drifting competitions, where drivers use similar techniques to perform jaw-dropping stunts. By mastering these techniques in-game, you’ll not only improve your gaming skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the art of drifting.
Conclusion
Burning rubber in racing games is more than just a cool trick—it’s a skill that can elevate your gameplay