Playing online is more enjoyable than the last iteration with probably the biggest change being that in Knockout mode players turn cops after being knocked out, allowing them in turn to get back at you. Once again there is an incredible amount of options to choose from, meaning you can customize the races as you see fit. There are also a good amount of achievement points that can be unlocked when playing on Xbox Live.
The game has a steady frame rate and definitely looks next-gen; however the visuals are only slightly better than Most Wanted. The cars look more realistic and many of the textures look to have been refined. The cut-scenes are incredible using a mixture of 3D models and real actors. Most times the acting is over the top, but you learn to just push through it to understand the much improved story which picks up from where Most Wanted left off. The game controls well although you will have to adapt to using your wingmen properly, but this shouldn’t pose too much of a problem.
I’ve always been a fan of this franchise even though it follows the “minor improvement” trend that is becoming ever so popular in today’s industry. NFS racing has never been better, however having played all the previous iterations and there being only minor improvements, this makes the question of whether to buy the game a difficult choice as opposed to if it were someone’s first NFS game. Of course the hardcore fans of the series will definitely enjoy it, however if you’re like me and find yourself getting sick of only slight upgrades you should probably rent this game to find out if it’s really worth your time and money.
