In computer racing, the same rules and conventions that exist in real life are used. In some games, this manifests itself more, and in others less. But part of the really existing "chips" when overtaking and driving cars to one degree or another is reflected in arcade gameplay. In this article we will understand what a slip stream is and how to handle it.
The meaning of the term
First, consider the original of this term in English. The word slipstream can be translated verbatim into Russian and it will sound like this - "slip stream". Of course, you should not take such a meaning, because the term has a more precise definition.
The whole phenomenon of a slip stream is based on the aerodynamics of cars, air flow and speed. A slip-stream is called driving two cars one after another when the lagging car is in a swirling stream of air, which is why it picks up speed much faster than the one in front. Even beginner riders who want to learn all the intricacies and tactics of riding on a track tell about what a slip stream is.
Therefore, this term came to computer games from real competitions. This technique is used in almost all types of competitions, from amateur races to royal Formula 1 races. This mechanic has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's consider them first on the example of real races, and then in computer games.
Pros of a slip stream in reality
Now you know what a slip stream is. Next, you need to understand in which situations this method of riding is most suitable. The most obvious application is long lines. It is in such conditions that you can achieve maximum efficiency and overtake your opponent.
It is necessary to take a position right behind the car that is driving in front, because behind it the air resistance decreases. It turns out that the first car takes all the resistance on itself, and the rear because of this accelerates faster. Upon reaching a certain threshold, you can overtake the enemy in a straight line.
The next plus is less fuel consumption. Due to the reduced resistance, the car requires less gasoline. This can be seen in long competitions, when riders must call for a pit stop to refuel. That is why some drivers are not in a hurry to overtake the enemy when picking up speed, but keep a distance and move behind the first car.
disadvantages
And now to the minuses. Knowing what a slip stream is, it is easy to guess that in such a powerful stream of air it is quite simple to hold on, but it is difficult to get out of it. When the rear driver begins to overtake the enemy, he needs to make an effort to get out of the stream. Because of this, the controllability of the car is lost, which increases the danger and likelihood of an accident.
According to research and measurements, we can conclude that the real increase in speed is from 5 to 10%, depending on the parameters of the car. When competing in identical cars, such a movement will be most useful. If you know what a slip stream is and want to test it on public roads, then we hasten to stop you. The fact is that this venture is quite dangerous for many factors. These include various characteristics of cars, unprepared drivers and much more.
What is a NFS slip stream?
In computer games, this phenomenon, of course, is not so dangerous and requires less skills. The main advantages of moving in a slip stream are not only a fairly quick overtaking of opponents.
In addition to advantageous overtaking, in many races you can get a bonus to points or earn a reputation for performing a trick. For example, the most popular slip stream in Need For Speed. Since the Underground part, for similar actions, they began to give style points. In the second part, the glasses were replaced by an increase to the current level of NO2 in the cylinder.
In the more modern parts of the series, driving behind the car adds a rating to the total score. A slip stream in Need For Speed Rivals is one of the main tools in competitions in fast supercars. When all the participants of the race ride along long straight highways at maximum speed, the winner is revealed only if suddenly one of the riders uses acceleration or a slip stream.