Next-gen urban racing game
Need for Speed Unbound is a premium racing game from Criterion Games. As the continuation of the long-running Need For Speed franchise, expect the same fast-paced action and the realistic depiction of customizable vehicles. In this entry, you are tasked with attempting to work your way to ultimately join and win The Grand, the top-tier racing challenge in the fictional area of Lakeshore.
In Need for Speed Unbound, the first thing to notice is the next generation of graphics and animation, with 4K graphics and cross-platform support. Other titles in the series include NFS: Most Wanted and Need for Speed Payback.
A more street feel
As the next-gen title, Need for Speed Unbound lets you play in stunning 4K high-definition video quality, with frame rates of 60 FPS across all supported platforms. Aside from the visual improvement, you can also play with your buddies on different consoles thanks to its crossplay feature. Additionally, it has full technical support for top-of-the-line setups, with HDR10 and VRR support for an even greater experience.
In terms of content, get ready for a more urban-focused premise. Aside from the races and the vehicles, the game offers a great focus on the aesthetic. The art style is heavily influenced by street art like graffiti and the soundtrack is more diverse — featuring tracks by A$AP Rocky and AWGE. As you drive, you can see these materials on the street or listen to them right inside your car.
The premise, however, could feel a bit more restrictive compared to earlier entries. Its main storyline takes place over the course of only four weeks, with a single mission to guide most of your efforts. Also, all its features come at a higher cost. The game is designed for mid- to high-range systems. Playing at the minimum requirements won’t guarantee the top-tier experience this game is capable of.
What’s new in Vol. 3?
With the new season, Vol. 3, rolling in, players can expect a few elements to switch up a bit. One of the most recent additions is the Speed Pass, a reward-giving event that requires players to progress through different tiers in order to win the rewards. Some of the prizes include new outfits, effects, banner stickers, a ton of EXP, and even a Legendary Custom SRT Viper car.
Furthermore, the update also introduces Linkups, a feature that transports players to seven different locations. There are sets of stunt-based missions to be accomplished at each spot, all of which are needed to be beaten within a specific time frame. Once all of the Linkups rounds are completed, participants can win prizes ranging from the DMC Delorean car to lots of EXP for the Speed Pass.
Besides that, the gameplay is also refreshed with 68 new Challenges — both Daily and Weekly. There is also a new Chat Wheel, which will serve as an efficient communication medium between players. Plus, the new Drift Playlists mode is a great arcade mode to try out. Meanwhile, car cosmetics enthusiasts can check out the in-game store for exclusive skin and effects bundles.
Next-gen experience for next-gen setups
If you’re looking to take your racing experience to the next level, Need for Speed Unbound is the perfect entry to start with. Its street feel, exemplified by urban music and graffiti, is delivered in stunning visual quality. However, its technical improvements come with more demanding system requirements. With a more focused premise and an all-new set of in-game content, this is a welcome return for the franchise.
Ready for an update?
Need for Speed Unbound is getting a new free content update called Volume 2, with 40 new challenges added. Don’t miss it.
