“Need for Speed Unbound” brings the racing series to life on December 2
The Need for Speed series hasn't been heard from since 2019's so-so Need for Speed Heat, but Criterion and EA are ready to bring it back - and they're tinkering with the formula again. They unveiled Need for Speed Unbound, a sequel to the fantasy racing game that combines street art elements (such as cel-shaded graphics and graffiti) with realistic cars and a game system that promises "real consequences" for your decisions. And did we mention A$AP Rocky is starring?
You play as a new racer who must rise to the top of a street racing league to recover a "priceless" car stolen from a family auto shop. A$AP Rocky will lead the Takeover Scene, a "precision driving" mode that rewards style. His music (along with other hip-hop artists) will soundtrack the experience, and the trailer hints you might even be driving his custom Mercedes 190E.
Unbound will include familiar Need for Speed mechanics like police "heat," but you'll also get nitrous-fueled speed boosts in exchange for a sleek ride. Unsurprisingly, you'll get virtual currency-based customization that extends to things like clothing and license plates. Free updates will include new features, new modes and raw content.
The new title will be available on December 2 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. Sorry, you're high and dry if you were hoping for a PS4 or Xbox One release. The big question is whether or not Unbound will accomplish what Heat failed to do - i.e. restore some of the excitement of the days of glory from Need for Speed.
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The Need for Speed series hasn't been heard from since 2019's so-so Need for Speed Heat, but Criterion and EA are ready to bring it back - and they're tinkering with the formula again. They unveiled Need for Speed Unbound, a sequel to the fantasy racing game that combines street art elements (such as cel-shaded graphics and graffiti) with realistic cars and a game system that promises "real consequences" for your decisions. And did we mention A$AP Rocky is starring?
You play as a new racer who must rise to the top of a street racing league to recover a "priceless" car stolen from a family auto shop. A$AP Rocky will lead the Takeover Scene, a "precision driving" mode that rewards style. His music (along with other hip-hop artists) will soundtrack the experience, and the trailer hints you might even be driving his custom Mercedes 190E.
Unbound will include familiar Need for Speed mechanics like police "heat," but you'll also get nitrous-fueled speed boosts in exchange for a sleek ride. Unsurprisingly, you'll get virtual currency-based customization that extends to things like clothing and license plates. Free updates will include new features, new modes and raw content.
The new title will be available on December 2 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. Sorry, you're high and dry if you were hoping for a PS4 or Xbox One release. The big question is whether or not Unbound will accomplish what Heat failed to do - i.e. restore some of the excitement of the days of glory from Need for Speed.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
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