Turtle Beach Unveils VelocityOne: A New Gear Shifter and Handbrake Combo

Turtle Beach Corporation, a name synonymous with gaming accessories, has just unveiled a new contender in its VelocityOne simulation lineup: the VelocityOne Multi-Shift. This isn’t just another piece of gaming gear; it’s a three-function gear shifter and handbrake that promises to elevate your racing simulation experience.

Now, if you’ve ever found yourself gripping a racing wheel, heart racing as you navigate a virtual track, you know how crucial the right gear is. The Multi-Shift aims to bring that extra layer of realism to your setup. It’s designed not just for Turtle Beach’s own VelocityOne Race Wheel & Pedals, but also works seamlessly with various PC racing simulation kits. Whether you’re tearing up the asphalt on XBOX or PC, the Multi-Shift is poised to be a game-changer.

At a price point of $129.99, it’s not exactly pocket change, but considering what’s packed into this device, it might just be worth it. Cris Keirn, the CEO of Turtle Beach, put it plainly: “Multi-Shift’s ability to be used as a sequential gearbox, H-gate gearbox, or precision handbrake is impressive on its own.” And you know what? He’s right. This versatility means you can switch between different driving styles on the fly, which is pretty nifty if you’re diving into various racing genres.

Let’s break this down a bit. The Multi-Shift allows you to choose between H-Gate shifting, which mimics the feel of a traditional manual gearbox, and sequential shifting, which is more common in rally racing. But here’s the kicker: when you’re in sequential mode, the handbrake button transforms the device into an analog handbrake. For those of us who’ve ever tried to drift around a corner in a racing game, you know how vital a good handbrake can be.

The build quality is another highlight. With soft-touch surfaces and steel components, it feels like the real deal. Plus, the contactless hall-effect magnetic sensors mean you won’t have to worry about wear and tear over time. It’s built to last, which is something every gamer can appreciate.

Multi-Shift also boasts seven gear inputs and a High/Low button that can be mapped for use in farming and truck simulation games. Yep, you read that right. If you’re into sim games that feature vehicles with more gears than a sports car, this feature will be a welcome addition.

Setting it up is a breeze. It’s plug-and-play on Windows PC, and if you’re on Xbox Series X|S or XBOX One, it connects seamlessly through the VelocityOne Race Wheel & Pedals kit. Want to go all out? You can even attach two Multi-Shifts—one for shifting and another for the handbrake. Talk about customization!

Mounting options are versatile too. Whether you prefer a desktop setup or a full-blown sim rig, the Multi-Shift can adapt with ease. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the shift knobs to match your personal style.

In a world where gaming accessories can often feel like a one-size-fits-all solution, Turtle Beach’s Multi-Shift stands out. It’s a thoughtful addition for anyone serious about racing simulations. So, if you’re looking to elevate your racing experience, it might be time to consider adding this accessory to your arsenal. After all, what’s the point of virtual racing if you can’t feel the thrill of the chase?