The finalists include emerging talent Freehaus, which was among the last cohort of AJ 40 under 40 practices in 2020; Paris and Brussels-based New South, which was shortlisted in last years AR Emerging awards; and Office Sian, which featured in the Architecture Foundations 2021 publication, New Architects 4. Selected by the independent Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission, the list is completed by George King Architects, which designed the 2023 Sheffield Covid memorial sculpture, and education and community specialists Curl La Tourelle Head Architecture.The five were chosen from 28 multidisciplinary design entrants into the competition, launched in July last year, which aims to find a bold, fitting and lasting memorial to remember the 72 victims who lost their lives in the 2017 tragedy.AdvertisementAn exact timeline for developing the west London memorial depends on factors beyond the control of the commission, such as the governments decision about the future of the 24-storey Grenfell Tower itself, which is expected next month.However, a final team is expected to be announced in summer this year, ahead of a planning application in late 2026.The shortlisted teams will now face a second round of evaluation, which will include meeting the bereaved families, survivors and the community around Grenfell Tower.According to the competitions backers, significant due diligence checks were carried out on all the shortlisted practices to make sure that any team, organisation or individual potentially working on the memorial did not bear any potential responsibility for the tragedy.Over the next six months, the teams will be asked to show their relevant professional and specialist expertise, including architecture, landscape architecture and structural and mechanical engineering.AdvertisementThe organisers said the designers must also present their strong experience of working collaboratively with communities.The shortlistCurl La Tourelle Head ArchitectureFreehausGeorge King Architects with Grow to KnowNew SouthOffice SianSpeaking today (21 January), the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission said: Having a shortlist of teams brings us another step closer to turning the Grenfell communitys memorial vision into a physical reality.Through this process, we intend to identify and appoint a specialist and worthy design team, one that has proven experience of working on sensitive and community-focused projects, and who can leave no doubt in our minds about the integrity with which they will approach the vital task of designing a beautiful and fitting future memorial.Our 72 loved ones, and our community, deserve nothing less.Thelma Stober and Paul Boateng, co-chairs of the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission, said: We have given our word, from the outset, that the voices of the entire Grenfell community must take priority in the memorial decision-making process, both now and in the future.The voices of the Grenfell community must take priority in the memorial decision-making processWe hope that bereaved families, survivors and those living close to Grenfell Tower will feel able to participate in the selection of a design team and, later on, contribute to the co-design of the memorial, in whichever way feels appropriate and meaningful for them.They added: This will ensure that the final design embodies a profound tribute to the 72 lives lost and provides a lasting place for loved ones to pay their respects, mourn, and feel connected to their memories.Each of the shortlisted teams is expected to receive a 20,000 honorarium to participate in the competitions second round.In 2021, survivors and relatives of those who died in the fire accused the government of trying to demolish the tower blocks remains without consulting them. Three years later, frustrated at the lack of progress, survivors and representatives of family members of victims criticised the years-long wait for a resolution, with the tower remaining under wrapping. The 340 million cost of maintaining the structure and delivering a memorial, as revealed in a government report published in 2022, was also slammed.Q&A at the launch of the contest in July 2024Paul Boateng, co-chair of the Grenfell Tower Memorial CommissionPaul BoatengWhy are you launching an open search for a design team to work with the Grenfell community to create a new memorial?At the heart of this international design team selection process is a desire to acknowledge the catastrophic events of the Grenfell Tower tragedy and to remember the lives of those that were lost. Through the power of design, our wish is to create a place where people can gather. Where together, or individually, they can reflect on the tragedy, gain strength, and honour the memories of their loved ones.Whether you are from London, from across the United Kingdom or based overseas, the Commissions community representatives, Thelma [Stober] and I strongly encourage you to consider building a team. Please describe your motivation for submitting your expression of interest to design a respectful, bold and lasting memorial to those who lost their lives. We are hopeful that prospective teams will feel honoured and inspired to submit an initial proposal for this highly significant and sensitive design commission.What is the commissions and Grenfell communitys vision for the future form the memorial could take?Our fundamental pledge, from the outset, has been to prioritise the voices and wishes of the entire Grenfell community in the memorial decision-making process, both now and in the future. The Grenfell communitys most frequently-mentioned suggestion is for a landscaped garden to be the memorials central element. This will also be complemented with a building or structure that provides shelter and space for reflection. Additionally, there is a hope to include a monument or artwork.The physical memorial must prominently display and incorporate: the names of the 72 victims; a sense of height; light, and water. We also need to see reflections of the diverse mix of faiths and cultural backgrounds to which those taken from us, and those who survived, belong.Together, these physical features will enrich the memorial to make it truly meaningful, bold and fitting for Grenfell. This must be a place where respect and remembrance resonate in every aspect and detail.What sort of teams would you like to see step forward for this important opportunity? This community deserves, and should get, nothing but the best. Grenfell was a unique tragedy and the memorial, and the successful design team, must be equally unique. Prospective teams should be multi-disciplinary, sensitive, and diverse. We absolutely want to see demonstrable previous experience of working collaboratively with communities. The required professional expertise includes lead design consultancy, landscape architecture, and structural and building services engineering. You may also consider including other areas of expertise such as artists and lighting specialists.This is an opportunity for the successful team to create a globally significant memorial of lasting beauty and impact, which faithfully incorporates the aspirations of a too-often neglected community for a place of remembrance, reflection and restoration.We do hope that the design profession will seize this moment to play a part in healing the wounds of a deadly and systemic failure, brought about by those responsible for the construction and management of the built environment at Grenfell.2025-01-21Richard Waitecomment and share

In my estimation, Disney and Ravensburger have made one of the best games of the last year, overtaking even Magic: The Gathering for the most fun you can have with trading cards. At the London Toy Fair on Tuesday Ravensburger didn't just announce set seven, it also gave us a sneak peek at sets eight and nine.Set seven is called Archazia's Island and features the first original character made for Lorcana. We don't know a lot about Archazia except they have a very cool bird mask and live on an island, but the fact that Disney has created an entirely new character for the trading card game is exciting. I'm looking forward to finding out more about Archazia and their realm in March when set seven is released. RavensburgerAlong with a new character and location set seven brings the standard collection of new starter packs, card sleeves, play mats and troves for you to buy. The play mats show art from Big Hero Six and Tigger, while the card sleeves are Cinderella and Ursula.The Starter decks for set seven are a Ruby/Sapphire, showcasing Belle and Beast, and a Steel/Amethyst set featuring Jafar and Iago. The artwork for "Inventor Belle" and "Beast with a Monocle" are so good, it makes me want to get the Ruby/Sapphire immediately.A glimpse at the future Reign of Jafar looks good but Fabled is giving me all of the happies Ravensburger Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. Ravensburger also gave us a sneak peek at what to expect from seasons eight and nine, titled Reign of Jafar and Fabled respectively. "His Crown, His Realm" is the tagline for Reign of Jafar with Ravensburger telling us that Jafar takes over Archazia's Island and tries to make it his kingdom. I'm happy to see that Archazia will be a running theme throughout Lorcana even after set seven is over.Fabled only has the poster to go by but it already looks like classic Disney mixed with the carousel from the Disney Parks. Could it be fantasy land-themed? We don't know but I'm already swooning the old-world look.Archazia's Island will be released in March, followed by Reign of Jafar in June and Fabled will follow along sometime in quarter three of 2025. If you have yet to get into Lorcana now might be the right time. Pick up the Lorcana Gateway game if you've never played, as it's the simplest way to get started.

Our Experts Written by James Bricknell Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement Why You Can Trust CNET 16171819202122232425+ Years of Experience 14151617181920212223 Hands-on Product Reviewers 6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000 Sq. Feet of Lab Space How we test CNETs expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise. What to consider What material type do you need? Filament (FDM) is best for large useful prints, while resin is great for tiny details. How big do you want to print? If you want to make large cosplay items, a bigger print area is best. 220x220 or more should be the goal. What's your budget? A smaller budget doesn't have to mean a worse machine, but you should expect to tinker. Table of Contents Our Picks Best overall 3D printer Bambu Lab A1 Combo View details $489 at Bambu Lab View details Best 3D printer for quality Prusa MK4S View details $999 at Prusa View details Best enclosed 3D printer Bambu Lab P1S View details $599 at Bambu Lab View details Best budget 3D printer Anycubic Kobra 3 Combo View details $399 at Anycubic View details Best 3D printer for beginners Bambu A1 Mini Combo View details $349 at Bambu Lab View details Best resin 3D printer Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra View details $300 at Elegoo View details Best 3D printer for big projects Anycubic Kobra 2 Max View details $469 at Anycubic View details Best 3D printer for educators Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro View details $469 at Flashforge View details Best 3D printer for miniatures Anycubic Photon Mono 2 View details $149 at Anycubic View details Best budget 3D printer for exotic filaments Qidi Q1 Pro View details $499 at Amazon View details Best 3D printer for small business (mass production) Creality CR-30 View details $799 at Amazon View details Table of Contents Best 3D printers of 20253D printers have come a long way in the past few years, making it easier than ever to bring your ideas to life. But with hundreds of options on the market, choosing the right one for your needs and budget can be tough. I've been testing and reviewing these machines for years, and I've put together this guide to help you find the perfect one for your needs.I started my 3D printing adventure a decade ago by trading my smartphone for a basic printer. Those early days were filled with endless adjustments and experiments, which eventually led me to selling my designs on Etsy. Over the years, I've even bought new machines to try out, testing out all of their strengths and weaknesses. Despite testing hundreds of models since then, I still get a thrill every time I see a finished print emerge from the print bed.After hundreds of hours testing a wide range of printers, I've put together this guide to help you find the right model for your projects and budget. The two most important factors to consider are print speed and accuracy, but if you're looking for more creative options, also consider features like multicolor printing or the ability to use different materials. Whether you're looking to create detailed miniatures for your Dungeons & Dragons game, build large cosplay pieces, or prototype functional parts, here are the best 3D printers you can buy in 2025. This guide also features considerations you might not have considered, such as print speed, build plate size, material costs, print head type and other essential details.Which 3D printer is the best?I've spent almost a decade and countless hours testing 3D printers in as many ways as possible to bring you the best 3D printers in every class. Right now, the Bambu Lab A1 Combo is our frontrunner: It's fast, can produce excellent detail and it's well priced at $489. It also comes with an excellent color system, allowing you to print in four different colors.

You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games hereFortnites foray into the music industry has been nothing short of amazing, introducing the worlds most recognized singers like Travis Scott and Ariana Grande whose virtual concerts drew millions of fans to the game. These collaborations have resulted in not only exclusive skins and emotes, but also in-game events, leaving players eagerly anticipating each new musical experience.These events not only increased player involvement but also skyrocketed Fortnites popularity in unexpected ways. Looking ahead, there are hints of a potential collaboration with Chappell Roan who is rumored to be joining Fortnite, promising to bring new excitement to the game.Fortnite x Chappell Roan collab leaks and cosmeticsSeveral Fortnite leaks and rumors have hinted that the next big musical artist collaboration in the game will take place with popular singer Chappell Roan and will bring an emote tied to one of her popular songs Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan BBC interview snapshot about Fortnite. Image credit BBC.The collab was teased by the singer herself in a recent interview with BBC Radio One where she shared she wants her own Fortnite skin and teased a Good Luck, Babe! emote coming soon to the game. Furthermore, she added, I dont know if its out yet but I think good luck, babe! is also gonna be a little dance on there.Chappell Roan also mentioned that she played Fortnite on her Nintendo Switch device and also bought the Ariana Grande skin when it came out. At the same time, other leakers have also confirmed at the Chappell Roan emote, but theres been no news or rumors around the skin unfortunately.To those unaware, Chappell Roan is an American singer-songwriter whose lively pop music incorporates 80s synth-pop and a drag-inspired image. She rose to prominence through her YouTube covers before signing with Atlantic Records. Following a brief spell and subsequent departure from Atlantic, Roan returned with her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, which had her hit single like Good Luck, Babe!.While you wait for Chappell Roan to arrive in Fortnite, another much-awaited crossover with XXXTentacion is also on the way. FortnitePlatform(s):Android, iOS, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/XGenre(s):Action, Massively Multiplayer, Shooter9VideoGamerRelated TopicsFortnite Subscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share

Good RiddanceEA is killing its Origin PC app soon, so it's a shame the EA app that replaced it isn't that much betterEA is officially shutting down the old and creaky Origin PC app because it runs on such old code Windows no longer supports it.Image credit: EA News by Sherif Saed Contributing Editor Published on Jan. 21, 2025 Origin, the original PC app for publisher EA, will be ceasing operations on April 17, 2025. Origin was EAs first foray into creating its own PC store, back when it was common for major publishers to ditch Steam in order to avoid paying a 30% cut to Valve.Origin, of course, was later replaced with the EA app, but because of its lack of features compared to Origin, many kept using it in place of the EA app. Those people will soon be forced to switch.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. EA announced Origins shutdown this week. The decision is the result of Microsoft ending support for 32-bit software on Windows. Origin does not run on 64-bit code - but its replacement, the EA app, does.EA is asking players who still use Origin to migrate to the EA app before Origin is gone forever, and this goes for anyone on Windows 10 as well as Windows 11. If you're on Mac, refer to this support article for more. In theory, all the games you own should transfer over. The same is true for games you currently have installed, too.The only - official - winkle here is cloud saves. If some of your games dont support the feature, youre going to have to migrate those saves manually. Anyone who did the Origin-to-EA app transition in the last couple of years, however, will tell you that some games may not make the jump, and its very common for existing installs not to be recognised by the new app.The best way to do this is install the EA app on top of Origin, essentially letting the installer upgrade Origin into the EA app. This should save you from having to redownload games. In some cases, restarting the app a couple of times may be required for some of your games to show up, so don't immediately panic if you see something missing.No matter what you do, however, its always best to create a backup of your game saves - just in case.Origin originally launched in 2011. It remained the only place to play EA games on PC for nearly a decade, until the publisher decided to return to Steam. By that point, EA was gearing up to replace it with the better-looking - but worse-performing - EA app in 2022.

Just Like ThatGood news, US-based Marvel Snap fans, the card game is back online, and its developer has a slightly surprising plan to make sure it doesn't go down again"Well continue to update with more information as soon as possible!" News by Oisin Kuhnke Contributor Published on Jan. 21, 2025 After a surprise ban in the US, Second Dinner has confirmed that Marvel Snap is up and running again, but it's also planning some changes.It's been a bit of a whirlwind weekend for apps getting banned and unbanned! This Sunday just gone, January 19, TikTok was banned in the US for absolutely silly reasons, but awkwardly, it came back in less than a day. One surprising effect of the ban, though, was that Marvel Snap was also hit with a ban in the US. That's because the game is published by Nuverse, which is in turn owned by ByteDance, the same company that owns TikTok. It came as a surprise to developer Second Dinner, who seemingly had no idea the ban would affect Marvel Snap too, which is why there was no prior announcement. Luckily, as confirmed on Second Dinner's Twitter account, the game is back and available to play in the US again, but the developer is now planning to find a new publisher.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. "Marvel Snap is back online in the US," Second Dinner wrote. "But to make sure this NEVER happens again, were working to bring more services in-house and partner with a new publisher. This is the start of a new era for Marvel Snap. We know this probably leaves you with even more questions than answers. We appreciate your patience, but in the meantime enjoy playing Marvel Snap. Well continue to update with more information as soon as possible!" Changes like that obviously take a lot of time, so don't expect a new publisher to be ready and waiting next week. To see this content please enable targeting cookies.Some players have expressed that they're still having problems, like making in-app purchases, and being unable to download it from the iOS App Store, but according to Second Dinner it's still working on fixing these issues - the PC version of the game seems to be working fine, though. What a mess! Maybe let's not ban an entire social media app without thinking about it a bit more next time, 'ey?

Switch 2 release when?It looks like Capcom is potentially gearing up to release native versions of a bunch of Resident Evil titles for Microsoft and Sony's current generation systems.With the Switch 2 just around the corner, there's a real possibility these titles could show up (again) on Nintendo's next-generation hybrid hardware.Read the full article on nintendolife.com

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Next Level Racing GTTrack Simulator Cockpit Best racing sim cockpit overall $900 at Amazon Playseat Challenge Sim Racing Seat Best affordable racing sim cockpit $199 at Amazon Next Level Racing Wheel Stand Racer & Wheel Stand Lite Best cheap racing sim cockpit $140 at Amazon OpenWheeler GEN3 Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit Best racing sim cockpit overall runner-up $399 at Amazon Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit Best racing sim cockpit for hardcore formula racing fans $500 at Best Buy CXC Motion Pro II Racing Simulator Best home motion control sim racing cockpit if money is no object $75,000 at CXC Simulations Next Level Racing Motion Platform v3 (Update: Currently unavailable) Best entry-level motion control sim racing cockpit $3,500 at Amazon There's nothing quite like being in a racing car setup. But if you're more of a fan of racing games -- it's far less dangerous, after all -- and still want to experience what it's like to tear down the track in your favorite car, why not get a sim racing cockpit? After all, you deserve it. While you can get by on a basic wheel and pedal setup, it fails to provide the atmosphere and sensation of an actual racing cockpit. A sim racing cockpit is a serious improvement over a basic wheel and pedal setup, making you feel like you're tearing down the track. A sim racing cockpit isn't just a way to make you look cool and authentic; it also helps provide a stable environment for you to experience what it feels like to race. It provides a stable platform while giving you the experience of constant steering and pedal pressing to maintain control of your vehicle. A well-designed sim racing seat setup enhances ergonomics and control placement, ensuring the wheel and pedals are positioned naturally for improved power. If you like the way that sounds, maybe you'd like gift a cockpit to one of the sim racers in your life.We've compiled a list of the best sim racing seats and home racing cockpits for various budgets and spaces. We've also included motion control rigs, which enhance force feedback by allowing drivers to feel cornering, acceleration, and braking through the seat. Next Level Racing For close to $1,000, GTTrack isn't cheap, but it's a solid and upgradable platform for sim racing. The sim racer rig starts with a beefy frame that can support the most powerful direct-drive force feedback racing wheels while standing up to strong pedal pressure. The seat is supportive and comfortable which is good for extended lapping sessions. Roadshow's Editor-in-Chief, Tim Stevens, has recommended this sim racing setup before and uses one in his iRacing setup.The GTtrack racing simulator cockpit is adjustable for a wide range of body types, compact enough for most homes and is compatible with Next Level's ecosystem of motion control electronics. Playseat Besides being significantly less expensive than a full racing rig like the GTtrack, the Playseat Challenge's best feature is how it quickly folds into an extremely compact package for storage in a closet, corner or under a bed. The foldable racing simulator cockpit design comes with a few compromises but ultimately makes the Challenge one of the most ideal simulator cockpits for casual and serious racers in small apartments, bedroom setups and shared spaces.There are adjustments for the wheel, pedal and seat placement, but no gear shifter mount. (If you must have a shifter box, consider the Next Level Racing GT Lite.) Getting in and out of the racing simulator seat can be a touch awkward, especially for kids. The racing simulator frame is strong enough for most console racing wheels and the fold-out pedal mount keeps the foot controls surprisingly planted during use. I personally use the Playseat Challenge sim rig in my small San Francisco Bay Area apartment. $199 at Amazon Next Level Racing The Next Level Racing Wheel Stand provides a firm platform for mounting a racing wheel, pedal box and even a shift lever. The Wheel Stand is meant to be a starting point around which you can upgrade, adding a seat and more as you go. Unfortunately, that means that it doesn't come with a real racing seat in the box, and the racing simulator ergonomics of a couch or rolling office chair aren't the best.The low entry point price makes this a good option for casual racers who want to get away from just clamping onto a coffee table or desk. OpenWheeler If you don't have the space (or the bucks) for a full GTrack cockpit, but don't need the foldability of the Playseat Challenge, the OpenWheeler GEN3 sim racing rig sits nicely in the Goldilocks zone between the two. This sturdy racing seat and frame combo accommodates mounting a wheel, pedal set and shifter and is very adjustable for a wide range of body types. The racing seat is also quite comfortable.When not in racing simulation use, the OpenWheeler can collapse a bit. Fans of flight sims can also purchase optional mounts to quickly convert the rig to a HOTAS setup, complete with a perfectly centered flight stick. $399 at Amazon Next Level Racing Offering the excellent build quality of the GTtrack at a more affordable price point, the Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit has an extra trick up its sleeve that makes it an ideal choice for F1 racing fans. The dual-position seat and pedal box can be configured in the traditional, upright GT passenger car seating position or transformed for a low-slung, high-pedal position for a Formula Sim racing experience.Like the GTTrack racing simulator, the F-GT is a flexible and upgradeable platform that can support the addition of display mounts, extra hardware and even a conversion kit for flight sim setups. Unfortunately, the F-GT is not compatible with the Motion Platform V3 kit, which shouldn't matter too much to buyers on a budget. CXC Simulations If price is not a factor and you want the best home racing experience short of building a track in your backyard, look no further than the CXC Motion Pro II. This is a full turn-key sim racing rig complete with a large monitor, racing seat with motion control force feedback, an immersive audio system, direct-drive steering wheel and pedal box. Just add a gaming PC or console and you're ready to rock. This is the most immersive (and most expensive) sim racing rig that I've ever tested that could conceivably fit in a game room or garage.Starting at $69K for the standard setup, the Motion Pro II can be further upgraded with flight sim controls, a 3-head ultrawide display or a VR headset. There are myriad steering wheel options to choose from and even an option for a real FIA-certified racing bucket from Cobra. Checking all of the boxes pushes the price just over the six-figure mark, at which point, maybe just consider taking your actual car for a cruise more often. $75,000 at CXC Simulations Next Level Racing The Motion Platform V3 is an add-on for the Next Level Racing GTtrack rig at the top of our best racing simulator cockpit list, providing an easy and relatively inexpensive entry point into the world of motion-controlled sim racing. The Motion Platform adds 2-axis force feedback to the racing seat allowing drivers to feel the G-forces of every corner, braking point and application of throttle. You'd be amazed how much this extra level of immersion and feel can improve your sim racing performance. The hardware is compact -- adding nothing to the GTtrack's footprint -- fairly quiet and easily configurable with the included software. Just make sure your favorite racing sim is compatible, most of the big ones for PC are, but console racing is not. $3,500 at Amazon Comparison of the best sim racing cockpit for 2024 Racing simulator cockpitPriceBest racing sim cockpit overall Next Level Racing GTtrack Simulator Cockpit$900Best affordable racing sim cockpit Playseat Challenge Sim Racing Seat$199Best cheap racing sim cockpit Next Level Racing Wheel Stand Racer & Wheel Stand Lite$140Best racing sim cockpit overall runner-up OpenWheeler GEN3 Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit$399 Best racing sim cockpit for hardcore formula racing fans Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit$499 Best entry-level motion control sim racing cockpit Next Level Racing Motion Platform v3$3,500Best home motion control sim racing cockpit if money is no object CXC Motion Pro II Racing Simulator$75,000 Racing simulator seat and cockpit benefitsMost casual racing wheel and pedal combos for consoles or PC come with hardware that allows them to be clipped to the edge of a table or desk, which is fine for casual racers. Gaming wheels with strong force feedback -- including the strongest direct drive sim racing wheels -- may need a sturdier platform than your Ikea desk can provide. A sim racing cockpit provides that strong base, allowing you to feel the full feedback of the wheel and crank away without fear of flipping your coffee table.Your desk may indeed be hefty enough to hold up to your Logitech G93, but the most overlooked benefit of a good sim racing cockpit is providing a stable base for the pedal box. Racers apply a lot of pressure to the accelerator, clutch and especially the brake pedal and without a strong base, that box can start to slide during intense lapping sessions -- hurting your performance and times while you struggle with ever-shifting ergonomics. Unlike an office chair on casters, a good cockpit also connects the seat to the pedal box, so that you don't go sliding away every time you brake.Things to look for in a sim racing seat/cockpitThe most important things to look for in a sim racing cockpit are strength, adjustability and comfort.If you're looking at a racing cockpit, odds are good that you've invested in a racing wheel with force feedback. The stronger the wheel, the stronger the frame you'll need to allow the wheel to provide the best feedback and give you the best control. A $1,200 Fanatec Podium with direct drive feedback needs a beefy base like the Next Level GTtrack. With a weaker wheel like the Logitech G920 for Xbox or the Playstation-compatible G29, a lighter stand like the OpenWheeler Gen3 will do and is a better match for the budget. Whatever you do, don't skimp on the pedal box; you're going to be stomping on this bit, so it needs to be strong. Unless you plan on adding motion control to your rig, it's more important that your seat be comfortable and sturdy than deeply bolstered. Next Level RacingLike real-life driving, ergonomics are a big deal. Being able to comfortably reach the pedals and easily control the wheel can make the difference between the pole position and the back of the pack. Since you're likely a different size from me, I've only recommended cockpits and seats with a good level of adjustability. If you share your sim rig with other members of your family, being easily adjustable is another good get.Most home sim racing rigs don't move, so the seat doesn't need to hold you in place while cornering. Deep bolsters are nice to have and can feel more immersive, but aren't strictly necessary unless you're also diving deep into motion control. Look for a seat that's comfortable for longer sessions, supportive enough for steering and pedal pressin' and easy to get into and out. If you live in a small or shared space, consider a foldable cockpit like the Playseat Challenge or the Next Level Racing GT Lite, which can be easily stored in a closet when not in use. Racing in a small or shared space? Consider a racing seat that quickly folds away when not in use. PlayseatWhat's the deal with motion control sim racing?A good gaming wheel will provide force feedback that simulates the weight of a real steering wheel and the feel of the tires struggling for grip. They can't duplicate the seat-of-the-pants feeling of the rest of the car's inertia and weight transfer. For that, you'll need to dive into the immersive and expensive world of motion control.The single most expensive and immersive simulator I've personally used is Volvo's 3 million euro chassis simulator, a massive room-sized simulator with 5-axis control of an actual vehicle chassis suspended in front of a wrap-around display -- you take a retractable gangway to get in or out -- but good luck getting that thing out of the Gothenburg R&D facility.The most basic motion control system I recommend is the Next Level Motion Platform V3, an add-on to the GTtrack racing simulator cockpit that mounts between the seat and the rest of the chassis. When playing compatible racing sims, the Motion Platform can tilt the seat forward and back, and from side to side to simulate the G-forces experienced when a car brakes, accelerates and corners. A sim racing cockpit can be as simple as a wheel stand and your couch or as complex as this VR and motion-enabled CXC Simulations rig. Antuan Goodwin/RoadshowThis $3,000 add-on for an $800 racing sim rig is painfully expensive, but it can be further upgraded with Next Level's $6,000 Traction Plus platform, which adds yaw motion to the system allowing drivers to feel the rotation of a vehicle during a drift or the lack-thereof when understeering. There's also an optional Buttkicker haptic add-on that lets players feel the rumble of the road and engine through the seat.Just like in a real car, being able to feel how the car is reacting to your inputs and the surface of the road is not only enjoyable but is also a great tool for improving your driving performance. Going all-in on a Next Level motion control racing setup can push upwards of $10 grand when you include the cost of your wheel and pedal box. Compared to our "price is no object" pick -- the CXC Motion Pro II that starts at $63K and can crest the six-figure mark when fully kitted out -- or breaking into an automaker's headquarters, that seems like a bargain.Sim racing cockpit FAQs What is a sim racing cockpit? A racing sim cockpit supports your steering wheel and pedals in an ergonomic position while you digitally drive in a racing sim or game. It can be as simple as a wheel stand plopped in front of your couch, but a good setup also includes a seat that physically connects you to the wheel and pedals in a driving position familiar to a real car with increased stability for force-feedback. What makes a good sim racing cockpit? A good racing cockpit should be sturdy enough to support you and your wheel and pedal combo. This is particularly important with force-feedback wheels and high-quality pedal boxes, which transmit loads of torque and foot pressure upon their mounting points. You'll also want to make sure that the ergonomics work well for your body type. Is a sim racing seat worth it? If you're serious about sim racing -- and especially if you're looking to supplement or transition to real-world racing -- then a sim racing cockpit is definitely worth it. A good racing rig may not be worth the investment for more casual players interested primarily in arcade racers. What budget should I set for a good racing simulator? The budget of your racing simulator depends on how powerful/expensive your wheel and pedal combo is, how much physical space you can dedicate to sim racing and how seriously you take your sim racing. Running a $300 Logitech setup for casual arcade racing in a small apartment? A $200 folding rig is probably best. Do you have an $800+ Fanatec direct drive setup that you use for weekly iRacing? Spending a similar amount to lock that powerful wheel down is a worthwhile investment. What is haptic feedback in sim racing? Haptic feedback adds a physical feel to your gaming or race simulation. The most basic level is force feedback through the steering wheel -- although even this "basic" level can get very complex once you delve in. For the rest of your racing simulation rig, haptic feedback can range from a seat rumbling subwoofer/motor to motion control systems that tilt and slide the seat, mimicking the G-forces you'd experience in a real moving car.

Marvel Snap team seeking new publisher as game returns online following unexpected US ban alongside TikTok"We know this probably leaves you with even more questions than answers."Image credit: Second Dinner News by Victoria Kennedy News Reporter Published on Jan. 21, 2025 Marvel Snap is back online, following its unexpected ban in the US.Over the weekend, the digital collectible card game was banned in the US alongside TikTok, due to its publisher Nuverse being owned by TikTok owner ByteDance.At this time, developer Second Dinner said the ban was every bit as much a "surprise" to the Marvel Snap team as it was to players, too. It went on to state it would do everything it could to get the game back up and running as quickly as possible. Second Dinner has now achieved this, and Marvel Snap is back online in the US.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. What Does the New Nintendo Switch 2 JoyCon Button Do? The Internet's WILDEST Theories. Watch on YouTubeThe developer is now "working to bring more services in-house and partner with a new publisher" to ensure this kind of surprise ban does not happen again.Calling this move the "start of a new era" for the card game, the Marvel Snap team acknowledged players may have "more questions than answers". However, it assured its followers on social media that it would keep them updated with more details on the matter "as soon as possible".There are still some remaining issues following Marvel Snap's suspension. Replying to users on X, Second Dinner said it is still working on restoring the game's App Store availability, adding this "may take some time".It additionally noted "in-app purchases remain unavailable but the team is working on it". In the meantime, it said web shop purchases are all in working order, so players can go there for now. To see this content please enable targeting cookies.Following its release, Marvel Snap won itself scores of fans, including many on the Eurogamer team. It was soon nominated for a number of awards and prestigious events including the BAFTAs.Our Donlan was especially taken with Marvel Snap on its debut, praising the game for giving him some welcome moments to pause and reflect."Whenever I lose a game - and I lose all the time - I get to spend a pleasant few moments working out what went wrong, picking over my deck, and swapping cards in and out. There's a reward for being bad at the game. How kind," he wrote in his feature: Games of 2022: Marvel Snap offered the best moments of reflection.