Iconic Adrenaline-Fueled Need for Speed Video Game Franchise

The Adrenaline-Fueled Need for Speed Franchise

With high-octane street racing action, exotic supercars, and adrenaline-pumping police chases, the Need for Speed video game franchise has thrilled gamers for over 25 years. First launched in 1994, Need for Speed quickly became one of the most iconic racing game series of all time.

The Origins of the Need for Speed

The very first Need for Speed game was developed by EA Canada and published by Electronic Arts in 1994 for the 3DO console. It featured real-life cars like the Ferrari Testarossa, Chevrolet Corvette, and Lamborghini Diablo that players could drive across scenic open roads and highways. With a focus on speed and evasive driving, Need for Speed set itself apart from other racing games of the era.

Need for Speed Goes Underground

After a string of sequels that built up the series, Need for Speed took on a new direction in 2003's Need for Speed: Underground. With a focus on illegal street racing, extensive customization, and import tuner cars, Underground tapped into the growing tuning culture. Its gameplay innovations like the ability to play full AI-controlled Drag races made it an instant hit.

The Series Hits New Heights

The runaway success of Underground kicked off a new era for Need for Speed. 2004's Underground 2 took the street racing formula even further, while later games like Most Wanted (2005), Carbon (2006), and Undercover (2008) expanded the scope with new gameplay modes and story elements. By the mid to late 2000s, Need for Speed sat comfortably among the best-selling video game franchises.

Need for Speed on Modern Consoles

In the 2010s, Need for Speed continues to be a marquee racing series. Titles like Hot Pursuit (2010), Shift (2009), and Rivals (2013) demonstrate the franchise's lasting appeal with adrenaline-fueled races. And with the power of modern consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, Need for Speed's graphics and gameplay are the best they've ever been.

Need for Speed Returns to Its Roots

After experimenting with various creative directions in the early 2010s, Need for Speed returned to illegal street racing with 2015's Need for Speed reboot. Featuring improved graphics, deep customization, and high-risk yet thrilling cop chases, the reboot reminds fans why they fell in love with series in the first place. Recent entries like Heat and Unbound continue the momentum by doubling down on street racing excitement.

The Need for Speed Lives On

With over 20 entries and versions on nearly every platform imaginable, Need for Speed has proven itself an institution in racing games. And with street racing culture as popular as ever in movies and TV like The Fast and the Furious, Need for Speed is well-positioned to keep the pedal to metal for years to come. Adrenaline junkies everywhere will continue feeling that need - the Need for Speed.

FAQs

What was the first Need for Speed game?

The very first Need for Speed game was developed by EA Canada and published by Electronic Arts in 1994 for the 3DO console. It featured real-life cars like the Ferrari Testarossa, Chevrolet Corvette, and Lamborghini Diablo that players could drive across scenic open roads and highways.

When did Need for Speed transition to underground street racing?

In 2003, Need for Speed: Underground focused the franchise on illegal street racing, extensive customization, and import tuner cars. Its gameplay innovations made it an instant hit and kicked off a new era for the series.

What modern consoles can you play Need for Speed on?

With the power of modern consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, Need for Speed's graphics and gameplay are the best they've ever been. Recent entries continue to be released on leading consoles.

Has Need for Speed returned to its roots recently?

Yes, after experimenting with various creative directions, the 2015 Need for Speed reboot returned the franchise to illegal street racing with improved graphics, deep customization, and thrilling cop chases reminiscent of earlier titles.