Showing posts with label xbox series x. Show all posts
Showing posts with label xbox series x. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Project Motor Racing

Crafted by the same minds that brought you the Need For Speed Shift games and the Project CARS trilogy, Project Motor Racing is a no-nonsense racing simulation game that is sure to be one of the must-play racing games of 2025.

Project Motor Racing
Project Motor Racing

Top-billed as one of the must-play racing games of 2025, Project Motor Racing offers a no-gimmick racing action that sets the benchmark for racing games. With its initial car roster spanning half a century of motorsports from classic racers, Group C, LMP1, GT3, to LMDh, every race car is available for you to drive from the start, with more to come via DLC.

Backed by scientific research and top motorsport experts, including former Stig Ben Collins, Project Motor Racing introduces the True2Track system. This innovative system features laser-scanned versions of world-renowned circuits, from Bathurst and Daytona to the Nurburgring. Each track includes dynamic weather conditions, drying lines, rubber buildup, real drainage, and 24-hour cycles. No matter which track you choose, the conditions will always change, so stay alert.

The main course of the game is its survival-style career mode, where your financial status determines the fate of your racing career. At the start, players can decide which financial difficulty they can take on, a setup broadly similar to the EA Sports F1 series' My Team feature. Players can either start with having low budget or with extremely high funding enough to invest in top-tier racing classes. With that settled, they can decide to set up which region their team will be based in, which affects travel costs and car deliveries. There are various sponsors to tackle in career mode, with some requiring you to clear complex challenges and some providing you with useful perks. Of course, winning races will rake you in tons of cash, but additional costs, not to mention repair costs, will slowly cripple your wallet, and if you're not careful, consider yourself bankrupt. Be mindful of your budget and fight your way to become a world champion.

There are various features in Project Motor Racing, such as cross-platform online multiplayer for both casual and serious racers, time trials, and Mods. Yes, there are Mods similar to those in the Assetto Corsa games. Players like you and me can create mods for both PC and console users, aiming to personalise their experience. Be aware, achievements will be disabled once Mods are active.

From its roster of racecars spanning half a century of motorsport, laser-scanned world circuits, survival-style survival mode, and other ways and means to enjoy this game, Project Motor Racing is the new gold standard for racing simulation games. If you want a no-nonsense racing game that promises to give you the same sort of action as real motorsports, consider this.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

Return to the future warfare with the newest Black Ops installment that promises to be the biggest Call of Duty installment yet.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
(Xbox)

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is the latest Black Ops installment that thrusts players back to future warfare with an intense solo-player campaign, ever-expanding online multiplayer, and Round-Based Zombies.

Beginning with the solo-player campaign, Black Ops 7 is set ten years after the events of Black Ops 2. As David Mason and the entire JSOC team, your mission is to fight through enemy forces and uncover a world-threatening truth. This campaign gives players a chance to see how Black Ops 7 works. You can take it by yourself or Co-op with another player as you embark through hostile territories, even within yourself.

If you're done with the campaign mission, you can take on online multiplayer against the world and put everything you've learned from the campaign to good use against the world's top soldiers with 16 6v6 maps and two 20v20 maps at launch. There will be more multiplayer content coming post-launch, so stay tuned.

Zombies became a hallmark game mode in the Call of Duty franchise, and BO7 is no exception. In this game's Zombies, you and other players must fight through the abyss of the Dark Aether against a barrage of zombies. You know what to do.

With its mind-blowing campaign mode, along with its signature online multiplayer experience and terrifying round-based Zombies mode, Black Ops 7 is a must-play of the season. Reality has drastically changed for the worse. Get ready.

Thursday, October 23, 2025

Once Upon a Katamari Damacy

The Katamari Damacy series returns in this latest installment! The Prince of all Cosmos and his cousins are excited for you to roll through this newest adventure!

Once Upon a Katamari Damacy
Once Upon a Katamari Damacy
(PS5)

Once Upon a Katamari Damacy
Once Upon a Katamari Damacy
(Nintendo Switch)

"Once Upon a Katamari Damacy" is the latest installment in the Katamari Damacy series after a 14-year hiatus. In this game, players traverse time and space as The Prince. Tasked by his father, The King of All Cosmos, your objective remains consistent with previous titles: roll, collect, and grow your Katamari to its largest size to please the King and help restore the stars.

Various levels feature various objectives to clear. Some are easy to fulfill, while some can be somewhat tricky to finish. Achieve it, proceed to the next level. Fail, and you'll end up getting punished by The King, and you'll have to do it over again. Kinda admit, the "game over" sequences can be amusing.

Aiding your Katamari adventure are power-ups scattered somewhere, such as the clock that adds extra time, a magnet to attract nearby objects, and a rocket for added speed. Make good use of these power-ups and aim for the biggest Katamari!

There are 69 unlockable cousins to collect and play from iconic favorites to new additions. Think you can roll them all? What's even amusing is that you can create a cousin! The more cousins you collect, the more customization parts you'll unlock. Feel free to mix and match to create your own cousin.

Up for a challenge? You can take on online multiplayer and compete with up to four online players.

In franchise traditions, Once Upon a Katamari Damacy features a setlist of songs performed by well-known artists, including singer Clementine's version of Katamari Damacy. There's even a song performed by Gakuen IDOLM@STER's Saki Hanami as well!

After nearly a decade and a half of waiting, Katamari Damacy is back in an all-new adventure, and it's about time...and space. The Prince of all Cosmos and his cousins are ready. Are you?

Friday, September 26, 2025

Silent Hill f

What would Silent Hill look like if it were set in Japan? There's one answer to this compelling question: exactly the same.

Silent Hill f
Silent Hill f (PS5)

Silent Hill f brings the familiar psychological horror to a different setting, giving seasoned veterans and newcomers a terrifying new challenge that sets it apart from the entire franchise.

Set in Japan in the 1960s, the story revolves around a teenage schoolgirl named Hinako Shimizu who faces paranormal threats spreading across the quiet village of Ebisugaoka. It's about one girl, two worlds. The Hinako Shimizu in the living world is plunged into a living hell, and the Hinako Shimizu in the spirit world is vying for power.

The Japanese setting distinguishes Silent Hill f from the rest of the Silent Hill franchise, promising to engage players with its compelling characters and a narrative that captures the intensity characteristic of traditional Japanese horror stories.

How these worlds revolve around her provides various challenges you would expect in this different kind of Silent Hill. One such aspect is the critical melee-focused combat system, where players must be mindful of their health, stamina, and sanity while battling creatures. At the right timing, you can execute either a perfect evasion, which fully recovers stamina, or a powerful counter, dealing huge damage to enemies. 

In the living world, weapons ranging from the steel pipe to the powerful sledgehammer will lose durability, and soon, they'll break unless you find a repair kit to fix them. In the spirit world, however, weapons such as the ceremonial dagger and the naginata won't break.

The enemy creatures you'll face in Silent Hill f come in all shapes and sizes. In the living world, when these creatures are killed, that's it. In the spirit world, however, defeating them is only temporary, so make use of their downtime to escape before they reanimate.

True to the Silent Hill lineage are the unforgiving puzzles that require your wits to move forward. Depending on the difficulty setting, puzzles can get more complex than before.

One unique feature of this game is its currency system. At save points, you can sell food and other valuable items in exchange for Faith, which allows you to randomly pull omamori that will be useful on your journey. Additionally, with enough ema, you can spend them on upgrades.

Silent Hill f is a unique entry in the Silent Hill franchise. What stands out the most is its Japanese setting, which adds a distinct charm to the horror experience. The game features a challenging battle system, intricate puzzles, and more. This truly embodies the essence of a proper Japanese horror game. A must-play of the autumn season.

Thursday, August 28, 2025

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
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?

Friday, August 1, 2025

Kimetsu no Yaiba: Hinokami Kebbutan 2

Your favorite Kimetsu no Yaiba fighting game is back and better than ever. Tell your friends, it's time to unleash the Hashira from within once more.

Kimetsu no Yaiba: Hinokami Kebbutan 2
Kimetsu no Yaiba: Hinokami Kebbutan 2 (PS5)

Kimetsu no Yaiba: Hinokami Kebbutan 2 (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2), the follow-up to the Hinokami Kebbutan video game, brings fans of the megahit series more demon-slaying action as experienced from the hit franchise. Time to wield the Nichirinto in the comfort of your living room once again.

Featuring a roster of your favorite Kimetsu no Yaiba characters to play as. Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and all of your favorite characters are ready for you, with some that can be unlocked by either progressing through the story mode or with the save data from the first Hinokami Kebbutan game and/or the Kimetsu no Yaiba board game.

In the game's story mode, players can relive the action from the Entertainment District Arc, the Swordsmith Village Arc, and the Hashira Training Arc in chronological order. If you've watched those, you should be familiar with them as you play along with memorable scenarios.

When you're done with story mode, you can enjoy Hinokami Kebbutan 2 your way with offline versus mode against either a CPU-controlled rival or a friend, the ideal party game for those who love the series. If you are Hashira material, you can compete against the world in online battles. There is a new challenge mode where you can tackle challenging battle situations. Are you up for more?

Just like in the previous game, completing various challenges will give you tons of bonus contents, some that can personalize your gameplay experience or just for showing off on your Player ID.

It's time to bring your friends once more because with Hinokami Kebbutan 2 finally arrived, it's time to occupy yourselves with Kimetsu no Yaiba madness over and over. Ready to unleash your inner Hashira again? Here's your chance.

Thursday, July 3, 2025

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.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

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.

Friday, June 20, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Porsche 911 GT2 RS

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Let's continue with the Porsche 911 (991.2) GT2 RS, the car that graced the cover of Forza Motorsport 7.

2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The 991.2-spec Porsche 911 GT2 RS is hailed as the ultimate 911. It is powered by a turbocharged 3.8L flat-six engine, sourced from the 911 Turbo S, but tuned to produce an impressive 700 horsepower, making it the most powerful 911 ever produced. Mated to a 7-speed PDK transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 2.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 340 kph.

The 911 GT2 RS features a racing chassis equipped with rear-axle steering and dynamic cornering capabilities. It also includes a specially designed Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system with Sport Mode for an enhanced driving experience. The optional Weissach Package reduces the car’s weight by 30 kg through the removal of non-essential features and the use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic and titanium. With this package, it set a record lap time of 6m47.25s at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, making it the fastest Porsche to conquer the legendary track.

This car made its world premiere at the 2017 E3 Showcase, where it was featured as the cover car for the Forza Motorsport 7 video game.


I originally wanted to recreate my Nordschleife achievement like I did in FM7. However, this time, I decided to take on the entire 24-hour layout of the Nürburgring, which combines both the GP Track and the Nordschleife. I wondered why no one else had attempted this. Instead of just tackling the Nordschleife, why not take on the entire Nürburgring? Anyway, let's roll the tape.


Both the Porsche 911 GT2 RS and Forza Motorsport 7 have demonstrated their limit-breaking capabilities to the world. They have rewritten the rules of how you race in the world, not just what you race.


TAKE YOUR PICK. TAKE YOUR SHOT. TAKE THE LEAD!

Next time, let's conclude Forza Motorsport's 20th Anniversary celebration with the 2023 Cadillac #01 Cadillac Racing V-Series.R and the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, the cover cars of the last-ever Forza Motorsport game.

Friday, June 13, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Ford GT

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

2017 Ford GT

The next car that I would like to cover is the second-generation Ford GT that was featured in Forza Motorsport 6. This was a special game for the franchise as it celebrated 10 years of Forza Motorsport.


Unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, the second-generation Ford GT is another modern interpretation of the legendary Le Mans winner, the GT40.

This new version features significant styling improvements compared to its 2005 predecessor, along with various aerodynamic enhancements, including an active rear spoiler and a large underbody. The car also incorporates aluminum subframes and carbon fiber body panels for better performance and efficiency.

Under the hood, it is powered by a 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine that produces 647 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a Getrag 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), the Ford GT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 216 mph.

It was originally limited to 200 units built at Ford's Markham plant in Ontario, Canada, with each costing nearly half a million US Dollars. However, increased demand prompted five times the production until Ford ended production of the new Ford GT in 2022 with a total of 1,350 units made.


How about a little commemorative lap around the Watkins Glen track to demonstrate how a decade of automotive brilliance made the second-generation Ford GT the American supercar that embodies the heritage of the legend itself? Let's roll the tape.


And just like that, many things happen in a decade. Faster things.

Forza Motorsport 6, like the second-generation Ford GT, shows what a decade of brilliance can create. It met the demands with incredibly realistic results.


WHAT WE'VE BEEN RACING TOWARDS


Next time, it's the turn of the 991.2-spec Porsche 911 GT2 RS, the hero car of Forza Motorsport 7.

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - McLaren P1

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

McLaren P1

Let's continue with the McLaren P1, the hybrid hypercar that graced the cover of Forza Motorsport 5, one of the games that spearheaded the Xbox One era of 2013.

McLaren P1

The McLaren P1 is a hybrid supercar that embodies the brand's technological expertise and motorsport heritage. Its main goal is to be one of the best driver's cars in the world and a worthy successor to the McLaren F1. The P1 is powered by McLaren's newly developed IPAS petrol-electric powertrain, which features an improved version of the 3.8L V8 twin-turbo engine used in the 12C, along with a single electric motor. This combination produces a remarkable total power output of 903 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque.

Unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the P1 is limited to just 375 units, each priced at £866,000. All units have been sold out.

McLaren P1

Let's have a commemorative lap around Spa in the midst of the rainfall. It's just like that Top Gear episode where Jeremy Clarkson drives the McLaren P1 around Spa during rainfall. I've recreated that moment before, and I'm more than happy to do it again, see if I'm better than last time. Let's roll the tape.


Just like old times, they said.

The McLaren P1 transformed our perception of hybrid cars with speed and power, just as Forza Motorsport 5 transformed the franchise in ways previously unimagined. This is evolution, personified.

McLaren P1

A NEW GENERATION OF RACING

Next time, let's take a look at the Ford GT, the hero car of Forza Motorsport 6.

Monday, June 2, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Ferrari 458

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

2009 Ferrari 458 Italia

Let's continue with the Ferrari 458 Italia, the supercar that headlined the last Forza Motorsport game of the Xbox 360 era, Forza Motorsport 4.

2009 Ferrari 458 Italia

Launched in 2009, the Ferrari 458 Italia serves as the replacement for the F430, marking a significant evolution in Ferrari's design and engineering philosophy, blending craftsmanship and technology.

Behind the Pininfarina styling, the 458 is powered by a 4.5L naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 570HP of power and 398 ft-lb of torque. Mated to a 7-speed F1-style dual-clutch gearbox, it sprints from 0-100kph in 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 325kph.

The 458 features an aluminum spaceframe that contributes to its lightweight construction. The suspension system features front double wishbones and a rear multilink setup. Equipped with the most advanced traction control systems, including E-Diff and F1-Trac, it offers exceptional dynamics and stability befitting a supercar.

The 458 is the last mid-engine Ferrari supercar to feature a naturally aspirated engine. It was replaced by its turbocharged successor, the 488, in 2015.

2009 Ferrari 458 Italia

Let's have a commemorative lap around the sacred ground of F1's Spanish Grand Prix, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, demonstrating the feeling behind the wheel of the last mid-engine Ferrari supercar to feature a naturally aspirated engine. Roll the tape.


The Ferrari 458 Italia is not just a supercar; it demonstrates performance that goes beyond limits, similar to how Forza Motorsport 4 exceeded expectations as an Xbox 360 game.


AN ENTIRELY NEW CAR EXPERIENCE

Next time, let's take a look at the McLaren P1, the star car of Forza Motorsport 5.

Monday, May 26, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Audi R8 V10

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

2010 Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro

Let's continue with the Audi R8 5.2 V10 FSi quattro, the supercar that graced the cover of 2009's Forza Motorsport 3 video game.

2010 Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro

Named after a winning Le Mans Prototype race car, inspired by the Le Mans quattro concept, and running on the same components as the Lamborghini Gallardo, the Audi R8 served as the company's image leader when it made its debut in 2007.

When it was launched, it was initially available only with the 420HP V8 FSi engine, but two years later, the V10 variant of the Audi R8 was added. It features the same 5.2L V10 engine from the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, but it only produces 518bhp of power, sprinting from 0-100kph in less than four seconds. Aside from the engine, the R8 is armed with a quattro all-wheel-drive system and an Audi Space Frame aluminum body.

The Audi R8 V10 is offered with a choice of a coupe and an open-top roadster. There's even a limited-edition GT model that shaved 100kg of weight and improved its V10 engine to produce 560HP of power.

2010 Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro

Let's have a commemorative drive around Le Mans Circuit de la Sarthe, the place where the Audi R8 was inspired by. Roll the tape.


Although it doesn't live up to its namesake, it proved its worth.

The Audi R8 cemented its status as the brand's image leader, and its presence as the cover car of Forza Motorsport 3 showcased its “vorsprung durch technik” philosophy to both worlds.

2010 Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro

WHERE DREAMS ARE DRIVEN

Next time, let's take a look at the Ferrari 458 Italia, the cover car of Forza Motorsport 4.

Friday, May 16, 2025

DOOM: The Dark Ages

The creators of the Doom games envision what Doom would be like if it were set in medieval times. This is their answer.

DOOM: The Dark Ages (Xbox)


DOOM: The Dark Ages serves as a prequel to the DOOM remake saga that began with DOOM (2016) and continued with DOOM Eternal. This game delves into the secret origin of the Doom Slayer's rage as players combat countless hordes of demons during medieval times.

Featuring id's largest and most expansive levels to date, The Dark Ages allows players to explore through castles, forests, dungeons, and even spaceships as they vanquish against the legions of Hell by all means necessary. There could be hidden areas to find out for yourself, so be ready with everything you've got. The riskier it gets, the more rewarding the game's going to be.

As a DOOM for all slayers, The Dark Ages features a customizable difficulty setting, allowing seasoned veterans and newcomers to personalize their gameplay by just how difficult the enemy AI will going to be and others.

In addition to the iconic DOOM weapons, including the Super Shotgun, DOOM: The Dark Ages introduces a brutal new arsenal, featuring weapons like the Shield Saw. This weapon not only provides defense against enemy attacks, but it can also deliver deadly physical strikes. Mastering the Shield Saw is essential for effectively overcoming the relentless demon hordes.

Even in medieval times, it’s the DOOM fans who have been enjoying the series since the 2016 reboot and DOOM Eternal. This installment will overshadow Darksiders and Elden Ring in no time. For those seeking one of the deadliest games of 2025, look no further than this one.

Thursday, May 15, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Nissan Fairlady Z

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Nissan Fairlady Z

Let's continue with the Nissan Fairlady Z Z33, the car that graced the cover of Forza Motorsport 2, which was launched for the Xbox 360 console in 2007.

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Nissan Fairlady Z

Two years after the production of the Z32 model ended, the Fairlady Z made a comeback in the summer of 2002 as part of the Nissan Revival Plan, led by then-CEO Carlos Ghosn. The Z33 Fairlady Z was sold in the world market as the 350Z.

With styling inspired by a concept car from the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, the Z33 Fairlady Z is available in both a hardtop coupe and an open-top roadster variant. It was the first Fairlady Z model to feature the Nissan logo on the front, replacing the Z emblem that previous models displayed; the Z emblem is now located on the side view of the car.

The Z33 Fairlady Z is powered by the same VQ35DE 3.5L V6 engine found in the Nissan Skyline V35, producing 280 PS of power and offering a choice between a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. Following the lifting of Japan's 280 PS power limit in the mid-2000s, the engine officially produces 294 PS of power.

The Z33 Fairlady Z became the first Z car to compete in Japan's Super GT series, participating from 2004 to 2007. It also took part in the Super Taikyu Series, where it won the ST3 Class championship in 2004, 2005, and 2007. Additionally, it competed in the Japan Rally from 2003 to 2005, the 2003 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, and the 2004 D1 Grand Prix (D1GP).

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Nissan Fairlady Z

Let's have a commemorative drive around Road Atlanta, see if the Z33 Fairlady Z lives up to the reputation as the cover car of FM2 and the ideal poster car from the golden age of racing games.


The Z33 Fairlady Z is the ultimate poster car from the golden age of racing games. Its appearance on the cover of Forza Motorsport 2 highlights its significance.


FUEL YOUR FANTASY

Next time, let's explore the Audi R8 V10, the cover car of Forza Motorsport 3.

Thursday, May 8, 2025

My FM Log: Spirit of Forza Motorsport - Honda NSX

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forza Motorsport series. To commemorate this milestone, let’s take a look back at the cover cars from the Forza Motorsport franchise, starting with the very first game released in 2005 and continuing through to the final installment launched in 2023.


Let's begin with the one that started it all. It's the NA2 Honda NSX-R, the hero car of the first Forza Motorsport game, launched 20 years ago.


Honda revived the NSX-R variant of the facelifted model in the form of a concept, as seen on the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, and then it went on sale a year later.

Like the base model, the NSX-R still comes with the same 3.2L V6 engine, which is an improvement from the previous NSX, and is mated with a new 6-speed MT. Unlike the base NSX, the R features improved performance and aerodynamics, resulting in better downforce courtesy of its new hood, new rear wing, and extensive use of carbon fiber.

It became the first street-legal road car to break the 8-minute barrier from the legendary Nürburgring.


Let's have a little commemorative drive around Suzuka Circuit in honor of the first cover car of the first Forza Motorsport game. Kinda think of it, I've already done this stint when I was playing Forza Motorsport 7 several years ago, examining the evolution of the Honda NSX. Anyway, let's see if I can do better with the same setting but playing what's now known as the final Forza Motorsport game.


I did a bit better this time, but I still had a lot of fun taking a commemorative drive in the legendary NSX. This car graced the cover of the first Forza Motorsport game two decades ago, and it still looks impressive after all these years.


YOU ARE WHAT YOU RACE

Next time, let's explore the Z33 Nissan Fairlady Z, the cover car of Forza Motorsport 2.