How it started...

It all began back in the late 90’s. Exciting times! The first notable online interactive simulation of a real world sport came to fruition – in the form of the 1997 Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race.

Others followed, yet the limitations of the technology within these early prototype systems presented users with some frustrating issues. Racing real cars through a video game was publicly talked about but there were problems mainly surrounding the perceived ‘reality’ of the product. Take the Real-Time Racing closed bata test in Formula 1 for instance. The user interface was a good quality video game, but users were decisive in their belief. They didn't feel like they were competing against real life drivers. Even the tracks didn't look correct. Advertising Hoardings, Run-offs and even chicanes were changed let alone the rumble strips and armco.