This applies to pretty much any racing game. What advantages, if any, does a steering wheel controller offer over a standard (analog) controller that will help me improve?
Or is the steering wheel just for fun?
Edit note: I changed the wording of this question to make it less subjective. The original intent is the same, though.
Best Answer
The answer to your question really depends on a number of factors:
For myself, I have used the following:
Of these, I still use the Act Labs whenever I want to do "serious" racing but the gamepad is sufficient for arcade racers. I've played all the way through NFS: Underground with the wheel and a gamepad, and wouldn't say it was significantly better one way or the other.
Background/disclaimer: for a number of years I was deeply involved in the racing simulation scene, including an extended stint as the webmaster of Sim Racing Connection where I also maintained the track/addon lists for GPL, DTR and SCGT. I've played just about every racing sim/game ever made, all the way from Grand Prix Legends to Mario Kart. :)