Back to Basics: Mastering Sim Drifting with Fundamental Techniques

Sim drifting is all about precision, control, and pushing the limits to push the boundaries of drifting compared to real life—but sometimes, instead of changing cars or changing your setup approach, the best thing for you to do is go back to basics. This article from us at Boundless Racing understands the importance of fundamentals, and in this guide, we're diving deep into the core drifting techniques that separate good drivers from great ones.

Why Fundamentals Matter in Sim Drifting

As competitive sim racing evolves, drivers constantly tweak their setups and analyse what they are doing right and wrong. However, sometimes, it can be from recently developed bad habits. New equipment or a change in setup can cause bad habits to arise without you even knowing. So, even the best sim racers and real-life drifters can develop bad habits, and when that happens, it's essential to revisit the basics.

This back-to-basics approach is crucial for professional esports racers, sim drifters looking to get started, and IRL drifters looking to incorporate the sim into their training.

The Core Techniques Every Drifter Must Master

1. Donuts: Perfecting Car Control

Before jumping onto the whole track, it's essential to master the simple donut. The goal here isn't just spinning in circles (like takeovers)—it's about maintaining precise throttle control, minimizing steering input, and allowing the car to flow naturally. A well-executed donut should be smooth, without unnecessary corrections. As you start doing more donuts, your tire marks should be dark and relatively thin compared to broad and lighter.

2. Figure 8s: The Foundation of Transitions

Once you've nailed donuts, progressing to figure 8s is the next step. This simulates "transitions" while in drift. A transition is when you shift weight from one direction to another while maintaining control. So, when you go from right to left, you don't spin out; you retain drift and continue your run. The key here is to let the wheel flow naturally through your hands while guiding the car's angle with smooth, deliberate throttle and clutch inputs. There is no need to jab or do anything crazy; let the car do the driving.

3. Mastering Steering Input and Car Control

One of the biggest mistakes sim racers make is overcorrecting their steering. Drifting isn't about fighting the car but working with it. The best drifters, like James Deane and Chelsea DeNofa, rely on subtle adjustments rather than aggressive movements. They're not pumping the steering if you watch them in the car. They use the throttle, brake, and clutch to maintain a consistent angle and trajectory of where you are going. Keeping your hands light on the wheel and allowing the car to transition smoothly is a skill that comes with practice and purposeful thoughts. Anytime you hop into a session, try to focus on smoothness and line rather than speed and time.

4. Throttle Modulation: The Key to Smooth Drifting

Throttle control separates amateur drifters from pros. Instead of constantly stabbing the throttle, focus on squeezing it smoothly. That 75%-100% throttle input is key in smoothing out your drifts. Think of it like balancing an egg—too much pressure, and it breaks; too little, and it slips. A well-balanced throttle application ensures a consistent drift without unnecessary corrections or spins.

Applying Fundamentals to Competitive Sim Racing

Once you've refined these fundamental skills, translating them into a competitive setting or even linking tracks becomes much more manageable. Whether tackling the tight technical layouts of Englishtown or the high-speed sweepers of Irwindale, having a solid grasp of the basics ensures more precise and consistent runs. Even top-tier drivers revisit these techniques to sharpen their skills and maintain peak performance.

At Boundless Racing, we believe that true improvement in sim drifting comes from a strong foundation—and that comes from both car and hardware setup. Whether you're running a street car or pro car, have a basic simulator setup, or have top-of-the-line equipment, mastering the core techniques of drifting is the key to becoming a more skilled, confident, and consistent driver.

So, the next time you're struggling to nail a line or feel like your driving is off, remember—sometimes, the best way to move forward is to go back to basics.

And, if you’re ever on the market for new sim equipment, check out Boundless Racing. When you use code “vosan5” you get 5% off of your order and support vosan.co.