Gran Turismo World Series 2025 Round 2

The 2025 Gran Turismo World Series continues in Berlin's Uber Eats Music Hall for the second round.

Before the major races, Gran Turismo announced that Japan's tire manufacturer, Dunlop, has been named the official tire partner for the Gran Turismo World Series and Gran Turismo 7. In upcoming updates for Gran Turismo 7, players can expect to see the Dunlop branding throughout the game, as well as the company’s history featured in Brand Central.

Screengrab from Gran Turismo

We have entered Round 2 of the competition. In the Manufacturer's Cup, Subaru secured another victory, successfully fending off BMW during the night race at the Nürburgring 24HR track. This latest win puts Subaru in the lead for the title with 12 points, two points ahead of BMW.

In the Nations Cup, J. Serrano from Spain achieved another victory at the Spielberg track, maintaining his position at the top of the leaderboard. V. Gallo from Italy finished in second place, while K. de Bruin from the Netherlands took third.

The 2025 Gran Turismo World Series will continue in Los Angeles's Orpheum Theatre this November 8, 2025.

My GT7 Log: The R35 GT-R's Final Stage

The third and final facelift of the Nissan GT-R R35 marks the final evolution of Japan's longest-running supercar, which has been tearing down the world's roads and tracks since its 2007 Tokyo Motor Show world premiere. Although it's sad to witness the end of the R35's reign, it's time to have one last drive with the R35's final form on Gran Turismo 7.

What is the third and final minor change to the Nissan GT-R?

Released in 2023, this final evolution of the Nissan R35 GT-R features a redesigned front view that replaces the previous facelift's V-Motion grille with a smaller grille, along with a boxy air intake that enhances its aggressive appearance. The vehicle also includes new fog lamps shaped like the Arena logo.

The engine specifications remain unchanged. In the standard GT-R, the VR38DETT 3.8L Twin Turbo V6 engine delivers 570 PS of power and 637 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The fuel economy remains at 7.8 km/L.

The vehicle's dynamics have been slightly improved, offering better downforce, enhanced cooling, and reduced drag.

What better way to say goodbye to Japan's longest-running supercar in history than by taking it for one last drive around the Nürburgring? Instead of just a lap around the iconic Nordschleife like most people do, I chose to tackle the entire 24-hour layout, which combines the GP Track with the Nordschleife. Now that's a fitting farewell to Godzilla himself. Let's roll the tape.

I must admit, it's not my best attempt, but I gave the R35 GT-R the ultimate farewell it deserves. Like a true soldier, it saw it through to the end.

This marks the end of an era for what I consider the best Japanese sports car of the Heisei period: the Nissan GT-R R35. Since its world premiere at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, it has dominated the world's best roads and tracks. The GT-R has made appearances in films such as Fast and Furious 6, Elysium, and the live-action Gran Turismo movie. It even surpassed the Bullet Train and challenged Jeremy Clarkson to an exhilarating experience at Fuji Speedway. This encapsulates everything about the R35 GT-R, from its inception to its farewell.

Though its reign may have ended, Nissan has assured fans that the GT-R will return in the future. Ivan Espinosa, the current CEO of Nissan, stated, "To the many fans of the GT-R worldwide, I want to say that this isn't a goodbye to the GT-R forever. Our goal is for the GT-R nameplate to one day make a comeback."

Arigato, R35 GT-R.

My GT7 Log: Skoda VGT

Typically, car manufacturers available on Japanese roads, whether local or international, can only showcase their designs in the Gran Turismo franchise through their Vision Gran Turismo concepts. However, the inclusion of Genesis, a Korean luxury car brand that is not sold on Japanese roads, altered this precedent. Following Genesis, another carmaker that isn't available on Japanese roads has joined the Vision GT lineup: the Czech manufacturer Skoda.

The Skoda Vision Gran Turismo marks the Czech carmaker's debut in the world of Gran Turismo, showcasing its "simply clever" philosophy to the virtual world.

A simply clever project that began even before the COVID pandemic, Skoda designers were debating whether to restore the 1100 OHC, a Le Mans racer that never was, or create a futuristic iteration for the digital age. They went for the latter, and this is it.

Paying respect to the legendary 1100 OHC, the Skoda Vision Gran Turismo incorporates Skoda's new design language, first seen in the Vision 7S Concept in 2022. The concept car's styling mimics that of today's Formula E race cars in the name of active aerodynamics. Underneath its carbon monocoque bodywork, it features independent wishbone push-rod suspension for better high-speed stability, reduced body roll, and low center of gravity.

Powering the Skoda Vision Gran Turismo is a dual-motor setup with one electric motor on each axle, producing a total power output of 1071HP of power. It even features a 4WD system with intelligent torque distribution for a balanced and responsive driving experience.

To fully demonstrate the capabilities of Skoda's Vision Gran Turismo Concept, I went to Le Mans to fulfill the duty it never carried out by its ancestor, the 1100 OHC Spider. Let's roll the video.

My experience with the Skoda Vision Gran Turismo has been somewhat nerve-wracking. Its electric drivetrain gives it impressive speed on the straights, but the grip is challenging, and I find it struggles to navigate corners even after braking. Despite these difficulties, I managed to record a lap time of 3 minutes and 44.797 seconds, proving that the Skoda VGT is a worthy successor to its Le Mans racer that never came to fruition.

The Skoda Vision Gran Turismo concept, created by Skoda for the Gran Turismo series, highlights the Czech carmaker's "Simply Clever" philosophy. This concept car embodies a blend of heritage and modernity, showcasing Skoda's unique approach. With this design, you truly take center stage.

Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater

The secret origin of Big Boss, redefined for the new generation of players. The genesis of the Metal Gear saga, born again. This is Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater.

Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater (PS5)

Metal Gear Solid Δ, the rebirth of the 2004 video game, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, brings a bold new vision to the secret origin of Big Boss, courtesy of the Unreal Engine.

Fans who played the original Snake Eater game a million times should be familiar with the game's story. Set in the year 1964, in the heat of the Cold War, CIA agent Naked Snake's mission to rescue a captive Soviet scientist, Sokolov, failed when his mentor, The Boss, defected to the Soviet Union. Accused of its unprecedented nuclear attack on Soviet territory, the US government has one week to prove its innocence or else face nuclear retaliation by the Soviets. They had no choice...but to send Snake to eliminate The Boss.

Every iconic Snake Eater moment from Snake's failed Virtuous Mission to his "Last Showdown" has been recalibrated and recharged thanks to the full capability of the Unreal Engine. Playing on either the PS5 Pro or the Xbox Series X, surviving through enemy territory never looked and felt so ultra-realistic. Although the looks and feels are new, Konami managed to keep the original voices (Japanese and English dub) and BGM from the original Snake Eater intact.

There are two ways to enjoy playing MGSΔ. The New Style gives you a brand new third-person action perspective to the Snake Eater experience, with new controls to master. The Legacy Style, meanwhile, features classic MGS3 gameplay setup fans are familiar with. Whichever style you're playing, it's all about revisiting this classic.

In addition to the unlockable camouflages and the hidden Kerotans to shoot, the new Snake Eater game has hidden Ga-kos hidden throughout the game. Shoot them all to obtain a secret reward. Oh, and if you complete the game, you can unlock the Secret Theater feature, featuring memorable Snake Eater moments gone wrong. There are enemies carrying films scattered throughout the game. Holdupping them is the only way to get those blooper reels. Collect enough of these reels will unlock new ones made specifically for this remake.

Exclusive for PS5 and PC users, the hilarious "Snake VS Monkey" mini-game returns. The apes from Ape Escape are back to cause mayhem. For those playing with the Xbox Series consoles, it's Snake VS Bomberman.

Remember the "nightmare game" from the original MGS3 game for the PS2 that didn't pop up in the HD Edition? Guess what? Guy Savage is back with a new twist made in collaboration with PlatinumGames.

Later this fall, there's a new Fox Hunt online multiplayer game where players go hide-and-seek against each other. Optimal use of camouflage and the environment is a must in this new multiplayer game.

The secret origin of Big Boss, reloaded at long last. Metal Gear Solid Δ looks and feels better than the original while maintaining the familiar Snake Eater experience. It's a must-play for Metal Gear fans who've enjoyed the original Snake Eater a million times.

Kept you waiting, huh?

A quick history of 20 years of THE IDOLM@STER

One of Bandai Namco's iconic video game franchises, THE IDOLM@STER, has celebrated its 20th anniversary. Started out as an arcade game launched on July 26, 2005, THE IDOLM@STER has grown into a mixed-media franchise spanning console and mobile games, TV anime, live performances, and more.

With that, it's time for a super-quick history lesson on all things IDOLM@STER.

THE IDOLM@STER Series 20th Anniversary

July 2005 - THE IDOLM@STER was launched as an arcade game. In this game, players can choose one of the ten available idols: Haruka Amami, Chihaya Kisaragi, Yukiho Hagiwara, Yayoi Takatsuki, Ritsuko Akizuki, Azusa Miura, Iori Minase, Makoto Kikuchi, Ami Futami, and Mami Futami. Their goal is to train their chosen idols and master various songs. Simple as that.

2007 - Two years after the iM@S arcade game was launched, the XBOX 360 version of THE IDOLM@STER was launched in January 2007. In addition to the ten idols, an additional idol, Miki Hoshii, was added.

Also, in April 2007, Namco collaborated with Sunrise for a TV anime inspired by the world of THE IDOLM@STER. Titled IDOLM@STER XENOGLOSSIA, the series centers on Haruka Amami as she gets tangled in an intergalactic warfare, and she becomes humanity's last hope as the Xenoglossia pilot.

2008 - A definitive version of THE IDOLM@STER Xbox 360 game, titled THE IDOLM@STER: Live For You!, was launched in February 2008, featuring an original anime DVD and additional content.

2009 - THE IDOLM@STER hits PSP for the first time with THE IDOLM@STER SP. Launched in February 2009, it was offered in three different versions featuring different idols to choose from in each version. The Wandering Star version features Ami and Mami Futami, Yukiho Hagiwara, and Iori Minase. The Perfect Sun version features Makoto Kikuchi, Haruka Amami, and Yayoi Takatsuki. Finally, the Missing Moon version features Azusa Miura, Ritsuko Akizuki, and Chihaya Kisaragi. Each version has one member of the villainous 961PRO's Project Fairy to defeat. Perfect Sun has Hibiki Ganaha, Perfect Sun has Miki Hoshii, and Missing Moon has Takane Shijou.

A spin-off game of THE IDOLM@STER seriestitled THE IDOLM@STER Dearly Stars was launched for the Nintendo DS in September 2009. In this game, players assume the role of the producer of 876PRO with the task of raising three idols.

2010 - In December 2010, a mobile phone game called THE IDOLM@STER Mobile Area Game was launched. This location-based game uses the GPS function of a feature phone to travel around Japan and produce idols. Local voice calls and wallpaper images are also available.

2011 - PROJECT iM@S' 2nd Vision has commenced with the launch of THE IDOLM@STER 2. Initially launched on the Xbox 360 in February 2011, it became available for the first time on the PS3 in October 2011 with exclusive content.

In July 2011, fans' wishes for a proper IDOLM@STER anime came true with the TV anime adaptation of THE IDOLM@STER made in cooperation with Aniplex. This 26-episode anime centers on the life and times of 765PRO ALLSTARS at the hands of the producer who holds their fate.

In November 2011, THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls was launched as a mobile social game. In addition to the familiar 765PRO ALLSTARS, Cinderella Girls features a roster of over a hundred idols to choose from.

2012 - The year 2012 not only saw the launch of THE IDOLM@STER Mobile i for Apple iPhone, as well as the Pachislot game, but also another PSP game called THE IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors. Offered in three different versions, Funky Note, Honey Sound, and Groovy Tune, it's a rhythm-based game where players can master hit IDOLM@STER songs.

2013 - The year 2013 not only welcomed a net anime series titled Puchimas - Petit Idolm@ster - but also a third sub-brand of THE IDOLM@STER franchise titled THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! In addition to the familiar 765PRO ALLSTARS, Million Live features 765PRO's newest recruits to train and idolize.

2014 - 765PRO ALLSTARS has hit the big screen with THE IDOLM@STER MOVIE, set after the events of the TV series. In addition to 765PRO's movie escapade, the journey continues with the newest PS3 game titled THE IDOLM@STER One For All. As the 765PRO ALLSTARS continue to elevate, a fourth entry to the franchise, titled THE IDOLM@STER Side M, was launched. Side M features a roster of male idols from the all-familiar Jupiter trio, who used to work for the villainous 961PRO, to some new additions.

2015 - The year 2015 marked 10 years of THE IDOLM@STER. To kick off the anniversary year, THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls has finally hit TV screens with the TV anime, which was split into two seasons. The first season aired in January 2015, and the second in July 2015. The lives and times of 346 Production idols, along with the producer behind them, are showcased. Not only did the Cinderella Girls get their own TV show, but also a smartphone app game titled THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls Starlight Stage. Oh yeah, did you know that THE IDOLM@STER series team up with Taiko no Tatsujin to create THE IDOLM@STER Must Songs for the PSVita? This two-version game features some of the franchise's greatest hits.

2016 - A new era for THE IDOLM@STER franchise kicked off with THE IDOLM@STER Platinum Stars, launched for the PS4 in July 2016. Not only did this game feature a brand new logo for the franchise, but it also featured refreshed looks of 765PRO ALLSTARS thanks to the PS4's capabilities. Come October 2016, PSVR users can get to experience their favorite Cinderella Girls' performances with THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls Viewing Revolution.

2017 - That year saw more new IDOLM@STER-related anime on the TV screen, such as Cinderella Girls Gekijo and THE IDOLM@STER Side M. Not only that, a K-drama inspired by THE IDOLM@STER franchise was aired in April 2017. Titled THE IDOLM@STER.KR, this K-drama centers on a scandal-ridden producer whose life changed when he encountered a young girl who happened to be the twin sister of the celebrity who died in a car accident. This sparked the clash between rookies and newcomers, who would later form themselves as the Real Girls Project. On the gaming side, two new IDOLM@STER-related smartphone apps were launched, such as THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! Theater Days and THE IDOLM@STER Side M LIVE ON ST@GE! Wrapping up the year is another IDOLM@STER PS4 game titled THE IDOLM@STER Stella Stage, where the 765PRO ALLSTARS are facing a new threat: Shiika.

2018 - The fifth entry of THE IDOLM@STER franchise was launched in the first half of 2018. Titled THE IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors, it started out in life as a browser game by enza, pitting players into the role of a 283 Production producer, holding the fate of the agency's idols. On the anime side, a 3rd season of Cinderella Girls Gekijo shorts and a new anime shorts series featuring Side M idols were aired.

2019 - In addition to the final season of Cinderella Girls Gekijo aired on TV, a smartphone app titled THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls Starlight Spot was launched.

2020 - The pandemic didn't stop the franchise from celebrating its 15th anniversary.

2021 - Three new IDOLM@STER games were launched, such as the POP LINKS puzzle game, THE IDOLM@STER Side M GROWING STARS app game (which served as the replacement for the LIVE ON ST@GE app game), and the crossover game on the PS4 and PC via Steam, titled THE IDOLM@STER Starlit Season. This game saw the 765PRO ALLSTARS teaming up with some of the best idols from Cinderella Girls, Million Live, and Shiny Colors to form Project Luminas. Together with a mysterious new idol, Kohaku, they're battling against 961PRO's triple threat consisting of One For All's Leon, Stella Stage's Shiika, and new rival idol Aya.

2022 - With three years left before the franchise's 20th anniversary, THE IDOLM@STER franchise outlined its "3.0 VISION" under the tagline "CRE@TE POWER WITH YOU!" A sign of future expansions for the franchise to come.

2023 - PROJECT IM@S 3.0 VISION has begun. Not only did this year welcome an armada of new animes such as THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls U149, THE IDOLM@STER Million Live!, and THE IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors, but the franchise entered the Vtuber business with PROJECT IM@S vα-liv, featuring vtubers named Manaka Tomori, Cosmo Kamizuru, and Letora. The year 2023 will be forever remembered by fans of both THE IDOLM@STER and the Love Live series with the crossover concert held at Tokyo Dome from the 9th to the 10th of December, 2023. Titled IJIGEN FES - THE IDOLM@STER & Love Live Uta Gassen, the crossover concert event features most but not all idols from both THE IDOLM@STER and Love Live! franchises.

2024 - The sixth entry to THE IDOLM@STER franchise, titled Gakuen IDOLM@STER, was launched. This game, made in collaboration with QualiArts, pits players in the role of the producer of Hatsuboshi Gakuen with the task of raising school idols of the said campus. On the anime side, The IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors TV anime aired on TV Tokyo with the first season in April 2024 and the second season in October 2024.

2025 - THE IDOLM@STER Series' 20th anniversary

The IDOLM@STER series has celebrated 20 years of success and continues to reach new heights. With six distinct brands and over 345 idols, the franchise exemplifies excellence in idol management. Bandai Namco has proven that for two decades, the IDOLM@STER series will forever be recognized as the M@STERS OF IDOL WORLD.

Happy 20th Anniversary!

My GT7 Log: Eunos VS Eunos

What do the Eunos Roadster and the Citroen BX have in common? They were both sold at Eunos dealers a long time ago, as Gran Turismo fans from Japan would tell you. Here in Gran Turismo 7, it's time for the showdown between the two Eunos cars.

The tale of two Eunos machines. One is purely an Eunos, and the other is a French hatchback paying a visit to the Eunos stable. How do these two Eunos machines differ? Let's begin with the one everybody knew and loved from the start, the Eunos Roadster.

The first Roadster, designated as NA, debuted in 1989 under the name Eunos Roadster. Eunos was one of the brands from Mazda, alongside Efini and Autozam at the time. Sold worldwide as the MX-5 Miata, the Eunos Roadster gained immense popularity among enthusiasts due to its lightweight chassis. 

The Eunos Roadster is equipped with either a B6-ZE 1,597cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 120 PS at 6,500 RPM, or a BP-ZE 1,839cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 130 PS at 6,500 RPM. There are many special editions of the NA Roadster, including the S-Special, V-Special, and J Limited.

Now, let's focus on the Citroen BX, one of the Citroen models that got its way through the Eunos dealership a long time ago. Unveiled at the 1982 Paris Auto Salon, the BX features styling by Marcello Gandini, who worked for Bertone at that time. Despite using bits and bobs from Peugeot, it retained Citroen's signature hydropneumatic suspension that delivered extraordinary comfort even on rough roads. The BX is offered with a wide variety of petrol and diesel engines and, depending on the variant, can be mated with either a 4-speed AT or a 5-speed MT.

The Citroen BX took part in the 1985 World Rally Championship with poor results. The best result it has achieved is a sixth-place finish in Sweden with Jean-Claude Andruet behind the wheel.

In the Japanese market, the Citroen BX was initially offered by its original distributor, Seibu Motor Sales, until Mazda stepped in and the BX was sold in the Eunos dealership in 1989. It drew a similar situation with Nissan for their Volkswagen Santana for the Japanese market and Kia for their Mercury Sable for the Korean market.

To channel my Best MOTORING vibes, I've picked Tsukuba Circuit for a duel between the two Eunos cars, the Roadster and the Citroen BX. Yes, they were both sold at Eunos dealerships a long time ago, and now, I have the chance to decide which one is the best. Let's roll the tape.

And now, the results...

Eunos Roadster - 1m16.007s

Citroen BX - 1m17.591s

A close result, but it's PROJECT EUNOS 1 that defeated PROJECT EUNOS 2.

The Eunos Roadster and the Citroen BX may be entirely different vehicles, but they both embody the essence of Eunos. It's about connecting the East and the West through the world of automobiles. Cultural exchanges are beautiful, and a game like Gran Turismo truly showcases the richness of car culture.

My GT7 Log: NISSAN e-POWER Ride Along

Back in 2016, Nissan reinvented the hybrid powertrain with e-POWER, a completely unique powertrain that allows drivers to experience EV drivability without the need for plugging in. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I get to experience how Nissan's e-Power works.

What is e-Power? It is an innovative hybrid technology that combines the efficiency of the electric motor with the convenience of the gasoline engine. Unlike regular hybrids, the electric motor powers the wheels while the petrol engine serves as the generator, creating the electricity to power the motor or recharge the batteries.

The Nissan e-Power vehicle featured in Gran Turismo 7 is the third-generation Nissan Qashqai. I know, it’s just another crossover SUV on the roster, which can be disappointing. To make matters worse, this Nissan SUV isn’t even available in Japan.

The third-generation Nissan Qashqai, manufactured in the United Kingdom for global markets except for Japan, is available with two engine options: a 1.3L DIG-T engine featuring mild hybrid technology and a 1.5L VC-TURBO with ePower. The version highlighted in the game is the latter. The 1.5L VC-Turbo engine, combined with an electric motor that powers the front wheels, delivers 190 PS of power and 330 Nm of torque. It is paired with a CVT and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 170 km/h. As said, the 1.5L VC-TURBO engine serves as a generator powering the electric motor as well as recharging the batteries.

To demonstrate the capabilities of Nissan's e-Power, I went to Australia's Bathurst. It's a fair choice because Australia is one of the world markets where today's Qashqai is sold. It was one of the dullest drives of my time, but in the interest of science, I went with it. Roll the tape.

As I mentioned, it feels rather dull. It’s no surprise that Nissan USA doesn’t offer any cars with e-Power, as the sluggish performance and driving experience are not suitable for U.S. driving conditions. However, I did have the opportunity to explore how Nissan's e-Power system works.

The third-generation Nissan Qashqai, a Nissan crossover SUV not available in Japan, joins the growing list of crossovers in the Gran Turismo 7 car roster. Some are not happy with it, but because it features Nissan's game-changing e-Power hybrid powertrain, we got the chance to experience what it's like to drive one and how it works.

Nissan e-Power. The efficiency of the electric motor with the convenience of the gasoline engine. Just wait till you drive it.

My GT7 Log: Summer Like It's 2008

When you think of 2008, what comes to mind? The Beijing Olympics? The global financial crisis? Barack Obama? It could be anything as long as it is associated with the memorable events of the year 2008. However, in the Peugeot catalog, there is a car not made in a year 2008. It's a car that was named the 2008. THE PEUGEOT 2008. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I got the chance to drive one, the second-generation Peugeot 2008.

Launched in 2020, the second-generation Peugeot 2008 eschews its sleek looks that draw resemblance to the 208 for a sleeker design that is utterly mistaken for its big brother, the 3008.  The new model offers a choice of a 1.2 petrol and a 1.5 diesel engine, as well as the first ever electric powertrain that can go up to 320km on one full charge according to WLTP standards. The model featured in Gran Turismo 7 is the one with the 1.2L petrol engine with 129HP of power and 170ft-lb of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Like its predecessor, the second-generation 2008 is front-wheel drive only by default, but the Advanced Grip Control makes it more capable on either tarmac, gravel, or snow.

To test out the capabilities of the FF-only Peugeot compact crossover, I went to Brands Hatch for a one-lap time attack. It may not be as exciting as such, but I need to keep it active. Let's roll the tape.

My performance in 2008 at Brands Hatch resulted in a time of 2m05.466s. While it may not be particularly exciting, it clearly demonstrates what this front-wheel-drive Peugeot compact SUV is capable of.

As I noted some time ago during my first encounter with the second-generation Peugeot 2008, it's a modern crossover that may not be worth the wait for everyone, but it's certainly worth considering for those seeking space, technology, eco-friendliness, performance, and versatility. Its inclusion in Gran Turismo 7 may also not be worth the wait, but it’s definitely worth a try.

A Peugeot crossover named after the year the Beijing Olympics took place, the world financial crisis struck, and Barack Obama became US President... Just don't call it a 2008 Model Year Peugeot car. Just call it the Peugeot 2008. That's it.

SHADOW LABYRINTH

In celebration of PAC-MAN's 45th anniversary, Bandai Namco presents the dark side of its beloved video game icon in this terrifying side-scrolling action-adventure game with one purpose: EAT OR BE EATEN.

SHADOW LABYRINTH (PS5)

SHADOW LABYRINTH
(Nintendo Switch 2)

"SHADOW LABYRINTH" is a thrilling action-adventure game from Bandai Namco, the creators of the legendary PAC-MAN series. In this game, players find themselves trapped in terrifying mazes filled with deadly monsters, challenging puzzles, and hidden truths waiting to be discovered. You play as a swordsman of unknown origin, awakened by a mysterious yellow sphere known as PUCK. Together, you must uncover the secrets of the mysterious planet you have landed on while battling fierce monsters and navigating through the intricate mazes to escape.

By all means, players must use various battle styles to confront terrifying enemies along the way, as well as solve puzzles and collect items useful for exchanging them for power-ups that will prove useful for tougher situations. Whether you will fight through monsters as the swordsman, fight through familiar mazes as PUCK, or confront bosses as GAIA, surviving by all means is what SHADOW LABYRINTH is all about.

The game not only highlights the darker side of PAC-MAN but also features classic Namco games that have been given twisted fates, such as Dig-Dug, Bosconian, and Galaxian, among others. It's a nostalgic experience that takes a dark turn. Will you find those classic Namco video game references in this game?

SHADOW LABYRINTH offers terrifying gameplay that will make your skin crawl. It's not just a dark twist on celebrating PAC-MAN's 45th anniversary; it's a way to revisit video game nostalgia in a hauntingly meaningful manner. Are you brave enough to escape the maze? As PUCK says, "eat or be eaten." You are The Chosen.

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - E-Ray and V.Series-R

Since its inception in 2005, the Forza Motorsport franchise has delivered us some of the most amazing vehicles spanning half a century through the world's most demanding racetracks spanning from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Now it's the turn of the two cover cars that starred in what's known to be the last-ever Forza Motorsport game ever made.

First up, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, the hybrid version of the eighth-generation Corvette that caused a lot of stir since the advent of the base model. 

The first-ever Chevrolet Corvette C8 E-Ray rewrote the American sports car's seven-decade history ever since the eighth-generation model, the first mid-engined Corvette, broke cover in 2020. 

The E-Ray features a 6.2L LT2 V8 engine that is mated to an electric drive unit powering both front and rear wheels, making it a four-wheel-drive supercar, a Corvette first. It produces a total power output of 655HP, and while mated with an 8-speed transmission, it has a 0-60mph time of 2.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 10.5 seconds. 

The ZER Performance Package comes with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S ZP summer-only tires as well as chassis tuning and other performance enhancements.

Lastly, the #1 Cadillac Racing V-Series.R, Cadillac's entry to both IMSA's GTP class and the WEC's Hypercar class.

The V-Series.R racing prototype is Cadillac's commitment to the LMDh class and it's made to compete not just in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship for the new-generation GTP class but also at the WEC's Hypercar class. It was built in cooperation with Dallara.

In compliance with the LMDh standards, the V-Series.R is powered by a 5.5L DOHC V8 Hybrid engine, the only naturally aspirated engine in the GTP class. It has a series-specified 670hp of power output and it is mated to a 7-speed sequential gearbox.

The #01 Cadillac Racing V-Series.R used in the IMSA 2023 season was driven by IndyCar veteran Sebastien Bourdais and Renger Van Der Zande.

In the 2023 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the #01 Cadillac Racing V-Series.R won the Motul Course de Monterey endurance race at Laguna Seca. At the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans, the #01 Cadillac Racing V-Series.R finished 4th place, behind the 3rd-placer #02 V-Series.R race car.

For one last drive for the entire Forza franchise, let's bring the final Forza Motorsport game's cover cars to Yas Marina Circuit. It's an appropriate circuit for an appropriate moment because, as they say, it all ends here. For those of us who consider the end of something, I would say that this is the perfect location to say goodbye to the Forza series.

Without further ado, let's roll the tapes.

Like all good F1 drivers, their final lap in Yas Marina really marks the end of an era. I have to be honest with you: As demonstrated with the cover cars of the last-ever Forza Motorsport game, it pains me to say that it really is the end of what's known to be one of the best gaming franchises in the world of Xbox.

From the first Forza Motorsport game launched in 2005 to the last-ever Forza Motorsport game launched in 2023, this two-decade journey became one heck of a ride for Forza fanatics everywhere. Fast cars, challenging tracks, and an ever-growing community that helped mature this franchise.

With the Forza franchise officially no more, let's take a quick moment of silence to be thankful for having one of the longest-running video game franchises in Xbox history.

Thanks for the ride.

My FM Log: Descendants

What did the Acura NSX (NC1) Type S and the Nissan Z NISMO (RZ34) have in common? They are descendants of the cars that featured in the first two Forza Motorsport games, and having obtained these two JDM descendants, I got the chance to explain what's what.

Imagine Mal and Red from Descendants, with the NSX representing the original VK who restored balance, and the Z NISMO symbolizing the new VK ready to paint the story red. You get the point, but let's get on with the quick intro about these two...descendants.

Let's begin with the NSX Type S (NC1) from Acura, a car that I won from completing the entire Spirit of Forza Motorsport tour.

The NSX Type S is the final edition of the Acura/Honda NSX NC1, signaling the end of the second-generation NSX's production after its six-year tenure.

In addition to its aggressive design, the 3.5L V6 Twin Turbo Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain was juiced to produce 608PS of power and 667Nm of torque. The improved 9-speed DCT with Rapid Downshift feature shifts 50% faster in Sport and Sport+ modes, while Track Mode provides earlier downshifts into corners thanks to a 1,500rpm increase in the rev threshold.

The available Lightweight Package shaves over 26kg of weight with the inclusion of a carbon fibre engine cover, steering wheel, and instrument binnacle, along with carbon ceramic brakes.

Only 350 units were made and sold, with 300 of them in the US market. Production ended in 2022. In Japan, where it was sold as the Honda NSX Type S, it is the last Honda to be powered by a V6 engine.

Let's discuss the Nissan Z NISMO (RZ34). It's important, so please pay attention. Originally, this car was a prize for completing the Update 20 Open Class Tour before the deadline of June 25, 2025. However, with the release of Update 21, it has now become a permanent prize car. You can obtain it by clearing the newly expanded and now-permanent Open Class Tour at the Builders Cup.

Let's give these descendants a mad dash around Laguna Seca, tasting the essence of what it's like to drive the descendants of the first two Forza Motorsport cover cars. Let's roll the tapes.

Rotten to the core, they said. Well, one of them is.

There's a saying that goes, "Find something to believe in and discover it for yourself. And when you do, pass it on to future generations." As descendants, we have a purpose: to share the stories of our famous predecessors. The NSX has fulfilled its purpose, while the Fairlady Z is still writing more chapters, albeit only a few.

Shame that they're the last new prize cars, not just the game itself, but for the rest of the Forza universe.