

Multiplayer is somewhat limiting in its setup. With the map being open world, learning routes and shortcuts becomes possible (and recommended), especially when racing a handful of events in the same spots. This can be a little disheartening, but in the end the appreciation for each car will be greater and also helps properly familiarize you with different models. Being familiar with how your precious vehicle handles is just as important as knowing the areas you are driving around. Instead of collecting a large number of them, it will benefit more to upgrade one or two as you level up over time. When it comes to the cars, you will quickly realize the selection isn’t quite as big as other NFS installments or even other titles in the genre. With the limited plot, the importance of highlighting other aspects of the overall experience is a top priority.

Spike, your street tutor of sorts and new BFF, provides high-energy comic relief, while narrating the small details as you advance forward. Staying engaged in the game is a problem, so don't be surprised if you don't have much motivation to get on the road since there's no clear purpose. Story mode, though, is a bit dull and uneventful. It's gives you the feeling that you are actually there, a part of it all. Cut-scenes are mostly live action, throwing in real cars for supplement. Cars, along with the surrounding atmosphere, have a hint of realism-a hybrid of digital animation shot on a camera phone with a matte setting. Streetlights beautifully reflect off of cars, giving a sleek shine as they zip and splash through puddles. Rainy night rides have a tone of danger, and trouble seem to wait around each corner, while water-soaked streets beneath clear evening skies bring a relaxing feel to the experience, complimenting the lighter side of friendly battles. The dark, almost eerie look of the city fits well with the theme of the game. From the starting jump, you are thrown into its world of underground racing, meeting the who’s who in this illegal society. Of course, everything isn’t fresh-out-of-the-box brand new, but there are soft touches of creativity sprinkled throughout.
