Ohio. I'm noticing some weird behavior that doesn't seem quite right. I
liked it at first, and worked long and hard to get my times down. I
finally managed 1:12 at Mid Ohio last night. Encouraged, I tried this
evening to knock off a few more seconds, and get down into the top third
of the field. Now, I'm depressed as h*ll; I can't break 1:18, averaging
closer to 1:21.
What gives? Is it me? I think it's the game. Here's why:
After disgusting myself, I thought it best to slow down and get the line
back. Setting the boost and fuel flow to their lowest, I ran off a set
of very sweet and smooth laps. Average time was the same: about 1:21.
Cool! Encouraged once more, I cranked up the boost and fuel, and pounded
out lap after lap trying to break 1:20. No dice! What's up?
Looking at the analysis, top speeds on the straights were somewhat low
but much higher than with the "choked" settings. The traces overlapped
nicely in the twisty parts; I'm hitting my line and brake points.
Looking at the traces, I'd expect almost 10 seconds difference. But
they're the same! What gives?
Sitting here writing this, the thought occurs to me that I cut quite a
bit off the ride height. Is the *game* penalizing me for ground contact?
How do I know when I bottom out? I didn't notice any cues, such as GP2
gives, that would let me know.
Top speed is way low, 160 at the end of the back straight, and it's darn
flat all the way through 6th. Why is this? Ground contact again?
I think I'll go check that before I *** some more... Hold this
thought.
Michael.
Doh! one more ***. I "parked" in the gravel while I rode with a few AI
cars to get their line. Looking in the Hall of Fame afterwards, I see
I'm credited with 1:10's and 1:11's. This really sucks. I didn't get
credit for my 1:12, but I have the analysis.
Related, why does the game insist on revving my engine while I'm parked?
Why can't it leave me in control of my car, even if I choose not to
drive it for a few moments?