In 2023, EA brought back the popular “Dead Space” franchise with a remake of the 2008 game that started it all. This survival horror game, developed by Motive Studio, was released in January for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. Like the original, players take on the role of Isaac Clarke, an engineer who finds himself trapped on a ship where the crew is being killed by terrifying creatures called Necromorphs. As one of the few survivors, Clarke must use his engineering tools to fight back against the Necromorphs.
The “Dead Space” remake offers a number of improvements over the original game. One notable change is that Clarke is no longer a silent protagonist and is more involved in the story through cutscenes. Another welcome improvement is that weapons can now be unlocked more easily, as they no longer need to be purchased after finding a blueprint. Additionally, the newly added peeling system allows for more gruesome and visually impressive ways to destroy Necromorphs.
With its impressive visuals, improved gameplay mechanics, and updated narrative, this version of “Dead Space” is considered the definitive way to experience the game and learn the story behind one of EA’s most successful recent series.
Although “Nuclear Blaze” is not a new game, it was originally released on PC in 2021. However, it recently became available on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 in April 2023, making it the first time it’s playable on consoles. Developed by Deepnight Games, this 2D action-adventure game puts players in the role of a lone firefighter who investigates a series of fires at a secret military base. The gameplay involves using a hose to extinguish fires and navigating through the base in a side-scrolling Metroidvania style, avoiding potential threats along the way.
A crucial element in “Nuclear Blaze” is managing the expanding flames. If the fire gets out of control, it becomes nearly impossible to progress through the level. Additionally, players must carefully manage their water supply, which can only be replenished at specific points. This creates a dilemma where every move must be considered for safety.
The standout aspect of “Nuclear Blaze” is its captivating story. As players advance in the game, they slowly uncover the nature of the military base and the origin of the fire. Rescuing survivors and finding notes reveal the truth of what occurred. With a relatively short playtime, an excellent soundtrack, and various difficulty options, “Nuclear Blaze” offers an enjoyable gaming experience for players of all ages.
Automotive manufacturers have been attempting to revolutionize the fuel industry for a few decades now. Toyota was one of the front-runners in this effort with their hybrid systems, first introduced in the Prius. While many believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are the way forward, Toyota and others are skeptical about their practicality and environmental impact. As a result, Toyota has invested significant time and resources into hydrogen power, and their efforts may just save the internal combustion engine.
Hydrogen is seen as one of the most promising environmentally friendly power sources for vehicles. Toyota has used hydrogen in combination with batteries to eliminate charging time and reduce emissions. With this technology, vehicles can be refueled with hydrogen at fuel stations, offering convenience to drivers. Additionally, hydrogen-powered vehicles require smaller and fewer batteries compared to traditional EVs, making them more environmentally friendly. Toyota has even explored the idea of using hydrogen in conventional internal combustion engines as a replacement for petrol. Since hydrogen fuel produces water as a byproduct, successfully implementing this technology would revolutionize the automotive industry.
Toyota has made significant progress in this area, developing hydrogen-powered engines such as the 1.6-liter Yaris and the 5.0-liter V-8 from the Lexus RC-F, in collaboration with Yamaha. These engines retain the power and performance of their petrol counterparts, with minimal modifications required. This means that existing production lines and engine designs can be used, further benefiting the environment. In the future, Toyota may even offer hydrogen conversion kits for petrol-powered vehicles, allowing classic car enthusiasts to keep their beloved machines on the road without the need for costly conversions or excessive road taxes.
However, there are some downsides to hydrogen engines, specifically related to the storage of hydrogen. The fuel requires large tanks, reducing interior space in vehicles, and it is highly flammable, necessitating leak-proof and durable storage systems. Once these storage challenges are addressed, the installation of hydrogen fuel stations could be more straightforward compared to EV chargers, as they can utilize existing infrastructure for normal fuels.
If you’re facing issues with the touchpad on your Windows laptop, the most likely cause is the drivers. Unless there is a hardware problem, which would be easily noticeable, the problem is likely related to the mouse and pointer drivers. There are two options you can try to fix the issue.
Option 1: Update the Driver
Type “Device Manager” in the Start menu search bar.
Open the Device Manager.
Expand either the “Human Interface Devices” or “Mice and other pointing devices” tab.
Locate your trackpad on the list.
Right-click on your trackpad and select “Update driver”.
The update wizard will automatically check for driver updates and install them if available.
Option 2: Reinstall the Driver
Type “Device Manager” in the Start menu search bar.
Open the Device Manager.
Expand either the “Human Interface Devices” or “Mice and other pointing devices” tab.
Locate your trackpad on the list.
Right-click on your trackpad and select “Uninstall device”.
Confirm the uninstallation.
Restart your PC.
When your PC restarts, Windows will automatically detect the missing driver and reinstall it, hopefully resolving any touchpad issues in the process.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2020, a group of developers from Nintendo EPD released a free-to-play game called “Jump Rope Challenge.” The game was created to help players stay active and have fun while at home. Originally, it was planned to be removed from the Nintendo store in September of that year, but for some reason, Nintendo decided to keep it available.
Jump Rope Challenge is a very simple game. All you need to do is hold a pair of Joy-Cons at your sides and jump! The game keeps track of how many jumps you do each day, with a goal of 100 jumps. However, you can also set your own goal and pace if you prefer. If you want more of a challenge, you can try doing double-under jumps or even jump in tandem with a friend by passing a Joy-Con. Since its release, the game has received small updates with cosmetic additions like different backgrounds and character costumes inspired by other well-known Nintendo games.
The game of collecting classics isn’t for everyone. It usually requires a lot of dedication and commitment on the owner’s part, and taking on an old project car is an even bigger undertaking. The end result of restoring and building a classic muscle car is a feeling like no other, though. It is something to be proud of when showing off to friends and family. It is definitely a story that can be told over dinner or a campfire with buddies and colleagues.
If collecting cars that are already completed and in pristine condition is more the style wanted, it can be expected to pay a little more, but it saves money in the end because repairs and builds will not be needed. Classic muscle cars are more popular than ever, thanks to their old-world charm and ability to retain or increase value. But this also means that some old muscle cars can cost well over six figures, so below is a curated list of 10 affordable muscle cars that can kick-start your classic car journey without breaking the bank.
Updated June 11, 2023: The used muscle car markets change so often that as soon as a list is published, something on it changes, which is why this list is getting refreshed and made more relevant. Keep in mind that the market can change within minutes, so do some research before committing to a specific make and model of classic muscle car purchase. If building or restoring is in the future many more options will be available when compared to buying a classic performance car that is already top-notch.
1988 Chevrolet Camaro Can Be Picked Up For A Mere $4,600
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Front and side view of a 1988 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
Like most other models after the early 1970s, the Camaro was redesigned to reduce emissions. This means that the base engine in the 1988 Chevy Camaro was a small six-cylinder with some decent power, but it could not compare to the base level 305 that could be opted for. The good thing about either engine size is that it is easy to remove and replace with a bigger, more powerful engine. Of course, it can always be left original, which will increase its value when the time comes to sell it off to gain back a good return on the investment. The bonus of buying an ’88 Camaro is that it can be picked up for as little as $4,600 to $11,600.
1975 Dodge Dart Sport Can Be Bought For As Little As $5,000
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Front and side view of a 1975 Dodge Dart
The Dart Sport 360 added a new lease on life to the lineup in 1974. The most impressive version was powered by a 5.9-liter V-8 engine rated at 245 horsepower. It was sold until the end of 1976 when Dodge decided to move it up a notch by turning it into an option for the Sport V8. Since the Sport 360 is among the rarest and most expensive Darts from the era, they are somewhat sought after in the market, with prices starting at around $20,000. However, if the power and exclusivity are unnecessary, a basic Dodge Dart with the less powerful 5.2-liter V-8 can be picked up for about $5,000 to $9,400.
1986 Ford Mustang 5.0L Is Priced Low, Beginning At $3,900
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Front and side view of a 1986 Ford Mustang GT Convertible
Over the years, Fox Body Mustangs have received a bad wrap. Granted, the lightweight 5.0L may not have the massive big blocks that previous models had, such as the 1970 Mustang Boss 427, but overall they had a powerful 302 linked to a unique muffler system. The H-patterned exhaust creates a distinctive rumble from the tailpipes, making onlookers look twice. 1985 was the last year for the SVO, but since it had extremely low production numbers, it is not a model that could be picked up cheaply. On the other hand, the basic level 5.0L is a great starting point for collectors and muscle car builders, and it can be bought for $3,900 to $15,600.
1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS Can Be In Your Driveway For $8,700
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Front and side view of a 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28
Launched back in the 90s, the fourth-gen Chevrolet Camaro, fondly called the catfish Camaro, is yet another example of the punk era and bold designs making it to the mainstream. The Catfish never garnered the same love and fan following as its predecessors, but that’s good news for budget-conscious classic car shoppers. Nonetheless, the fourth-gen Camaro did get a few special editions that continue to be sought after in the used market, and the 1996 Camaro Z28 SS is one of them. Essentially an upgrade over the Z28, it featured a V-8 engine rated at 305 horsepower, 30 horses more than the regular Z28. You can buy one of these for as low as $8,000, although some versions will fetch close to $15,000.
1975 Ford Maverick Grabber Can Be Snatched Up For A Low $3,400
front 3/4 view of a green 1972 Ford Gran Torino Hardtop at a car show
The Ford Gran Torino Sport from 1972, also sold as a rebadged Mercury Cyclone GT, was a stunning transformation story that took the regular Ford Torino, which is a cool classic, to get a new lease on life. Prices vary greatly depending on trim and engine, but you can find some for as low as $10,450. However, expect six-digit odometer readings and bad paint on such examples. If you want a pristine example with low miles, expect to shell out close to $36,800. Still, the Ford Gran Torino is a surefire way to get started on the classic muscle car game.
Side and partial front view of a 1969 Mercury Marauder
The 1970 Mercury Cyclone is one of the best-known classic muscle cars produced by the company, but since this list is about affordable performance cars, it will be skipped. Instead, one of the next best choices can be picked up for as little as $7,900. Of course, that will not get a car in pristine condition because that would run well over $16,000, depending on what is being looked for. Since the Marauder is one of the less sought-after Mercurys, it is a great starting point for anyone wanting a classic muscle car.
1972 Mercury Comet Can Be Picked Up For $8,100
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Front and side view of a 1972 Mercury Comet
The Mercury Comet may not look like much on the outside, but they all came with engines from a small 170 inline six to the 302 that could push a little more power out. Depending upon the car being considered, the 1972 Mercury Comet is a great starting point for classic muscle car building, especially if planning on fitting an engine from a Ford Thunderbird or Mustang. The bottom line price of $8,100 may seem a little high to start with, but considering the fact that a car in pristine condition can cost up to $18,600, it is a steal when one can be found.
1988 Pontiac Firebird Is A Steal At $4,200
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Front and side view of a 1988 Pontiac Firebird Formula
The 1988 Pontiac Firebird with a V-8 already under the hood can be picked up for as little as $4,200. Even cars that are in pristine condition go for half what an early 70s model would cost, running right around $13,800. The style of the Firebird has changed throughout the years, just like the Chevy version, but an appealing look can be found, or the ’88 can be modified. Either way, this car is one of the best to have in the driveway as a project or showpiece.
1971 Ford Ranchero Is A Car/Truck That Is Priced At A Low $6,500
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Front and sidie view of a 1971 Ford Ranchero GT
Based on the Ford Torino/Fairlane, the Ranchero isn’t as famous as the Chevrolet El Camino, but that comes as an advantage for that shopping for underrated muscle cars. The 1970 or 1971 models were available with both six and eight-cylinder engines, and the V-8 versions can be had for less than $10,000, but expect well-used examples with obvious signs of aging. But, if you seek the very best, you can find low-mileage examples in pristine condition for as high as $20,000. The record-holder was from 1971 that sold for $90,200.
1975 Pontiac Grand Am Was Recently Bought For $9,075
The Pontiac Grand Am was not just another car that GM produced to add to the muscle car lineup. In fact, it was built to compete with the European luxury sedans that were taking over the majority of the sales in the American markets. For that reason, the car came off the assembly lines with the choice of two different 400 engines or a larger 455, along with plush bucket seats, sport-tuned suspension, and a high-beam switch on the steering wheel instead of the floor. The ’75 Grand Am can currently be picked up anywhere from $7,700 to $24,400, with recent auctions showing around $9,075.
1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit Can Be Had For A Mere $5,900
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Front and side view of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
The Pontiac Firebird Esprit is not as commonly heard about as the basic Firebird or Trans-Am, which you would think would make it more expensive when found. However, that is not the case because these cars can be picked up anywhere from $5,900 to $29,900, with the average sales price being around $9,700. Be aware that the Esprit came with two engine options, the 2.8L V6 and the 5.7L V-8, so depending on the level of project that you may want, the power can fluctuate, as will the price.
1995 Chevrolet Impala SS Can Go For As Little As $13,300
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Front and side view of a 1995 Chevrolet Impala SS
By looking at the 1995 Chevrolet Impala SS, you may not think it is more than a car that was common on the police force for a few years, but with some rims and a cool paint job, they can look pretty fine. The thing is, with the Impala SS, that under the hood is already a 260 horsepower 350 V-8 that has the potential to be built into a beast (with a few Chevy 350 mods) that could be the biggest sleeper car in town. Unfortunately, these cars are no longer off the radar, so they can cost a little more than the others, ranging from $13,300 to $67,700, so the Chevy Impala SS is best left as a complete project car unless money is not an issue.
1965 Plymouth Barracuda Is Expensive Unless Caught For $6,325
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Side and partial front view of a 1965 Plymouth Barracuda
Since the Plymouth Barracuda launched a few days earlier in ’64 than the Ford Mustang did, many classic car enthusiasts claim it was the first pony car on the scene in America. It came straight off the assembly lines with a 2.8L, 3.7L, or 4.5L, with the biggest offering pushing out up to 180 horsepower. Since these cars are classic muscle cars, they can cost a substantial amount, ranging from $14,400 to $39,500, according to Hagerty. However, if you keep an eye on the auctions, they have been known to go for as little as $6,325.
1972 Chevrolet Vega Can Still Be Found For $7,150
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Front three-quarters shot of an orange 1972 Chevrolet Vega parked in front of a building
If you grew up through the ’80s and ’90s, you know how easy and cheap it was to build a Chevy Vega into a muscle car that simply blew the doors off the competition. The Vega is still one of those project cars that builders love to get their hands on, but because they have become less common in the used car world, they can cost you up to six digits when built to the max. There are times when an auction lets them go for cheaper, though, so if the Vega is the project car you have been looking for, have some patience and keep a close eye out because they have sold for as little as $7,150 in the past.
The best new Muscle car for the money is the 2022 Ford Mustang Mach 1 which is offered with an optional 6-speed Tremec manual transmission and a starting price of $56,270.
Q: What is the #1 muscle car?
The #1 modern-day muscle car has to be the Dodge Challenger Hellcat thanks to its party piece which is its 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 with 707 horsepower.
Q: What is a good beginner muscle car?
A 2022 Camaro or the S650 2024 Ford Mustang are great beginner muscle cars that offer everything from frugal engine options to big V-8s and the option of choosing a manual transmission.
UPDATE: An earlier version of this story referred to the game as Forza Motorsport 7. This is incorrect. It is just Forza Motorsport.
The latest trailer for Forza Motorsport premiered during the Xbox Games Showcase during the 2023 Summer Games Fest. This new video focuses on the partnership with General Motors for highlighting the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray and the Cadillac Racing V-Series.R LMDh racer for the new entry in the franchise. October 10, 2023, is the newly unveiled release date.
The Chevy and Cadillac will be the vehicles gracing the cover of Forza Motorsport. The video begins with the V-Series.R on the track competing with other race cars. Then, it quickly transitions to showing the E-Ray in the Home view where players can enter races and select different vehicles.
Next, there’s more racing with a circuit showing Eaglerock Speedway on the walls. The course appears to have an oval layout, which would work for stock car-style events.
The next course on display seems to be the Suzuka Circuit. Later, there’s a brief glimpse of what looks to be the famous Eau Rouge corner from the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. A short snippet also appears to show a bit from the Le Mans track.
Forza Motorsport will launch with over 500 cars, and over 100 of them will be completely new to the game. Plus, developer Turn 10 Studios will pack the roster with more racing-specific machines than ever before. If that won’t provide enough to pick from, there will be over 800 upgrades available for vehicle customization.
Of course, these cars would be useless without a place to race. Forza Motorsport has 20 places to race, five of which are new to the series. An earlier clip revealed two of them: Hakone in Japan and the Kyalami circuit in South Africa.
The graphics should be better than ever, too. The developers promise the ability to play in a 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, and that’s with ray tracing to create even more realistic lighting effects. A new time-of-day function allows players to start a race during the day and have the event transition into the night. For better sound, the game supports Dolby Atmos, which adds a layer of height to the noise in addition to the usual left-to-right projection.
The new game will have additional driving assists to be more accessible to users. For example, Blind Driving Assists help blind players or those with low vision. It adds more audio cues to help users navigate tracks without needing to see everything. One Touch Driving aids folks who have issues with pressing multiple buttons simultaneously, gripping a controller, or maintaining button pressure.
