Racer

: See RACER system for the knowledge representation system.

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Racer (in full: Racer Free Car Simulation) is a free racing simulator that runs on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X.

Related Topics:
Racing simulator - Microsoft Windows - Linux - Mac OS X

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Although Racer started out as a driving simulator, it also has features that are usually seen in racing games, such as racing against AI cars, or against human opponents in multiplayer mode. Among its strong points are a very realistic physics engine (also used in a commercial racing simulator), and good graphics. Its weak points, when compared with commercial racing games, are the absence of wear/damage physics or a career mode.

Related Topics:
AI - Multiplayer

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An important characteristic of Racer is its openness. The software itself is maintained exclusively by the creator (Ruud van Gaal), but the formats for cars, tracks and other data are documented. Furthermore, tools to aid in car and track creation are part of the release. As a result, a large number of cars has been created and published, in a large variety: Formula 1, GT, vintage, trucks, ... even a shopping trolley has been modelled. Likewise, tracks are available in various types, from true racing circuits to drag strips and mountain roads.

Related Topics:
Formula 1 - GT

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Racer was first released in August 2000, and has been continuously updated up to the present day. Over the years, a community has grown around Racer. The main forum for Racer is at Race Sim Central Forums

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The Racer software is free, in the sense of freeware (for non-commercial users). While the source code of an older version is available, it is not under an open source license. The cars and tracks have various forms of license, but can all be downloaded for free.

Related Topics:
Freeware - Open source

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