Back in 2005, Need for Speed Most Wanted represented nothing more than an ugly turn a formerly revered franchise was taking from the elegant Porsche Unleashed through Underground and Carbon to the apex of street racing vulgarity. Little would I suspect that seven years on the franchise would be in an almost continual backslide, with the notable exception of Slightly Mad and Criterion entries.
The Evolution of Need for Speed
The Need for Speed series has had a storied history, beginning with its inception in 1994. The franchise quickly became synonymous with high-octane racing and cutting-edge graphics. Titles like Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed and Need for Speed: Underground were celebrated for their innovative gameplay and immersive environments. Porsche Unleashed, in particular, was praised for its realistic driving mechanics and detailed car models, which set a new standard for racing games at the time.
However, as the series progressed, it began to shift focus. Need for Speed: Most Wanted in 2005 marked a significant departure from the franchise’s roots. The game introduced a more arcade-like experience, with an emphasis on police chases and street racing. While it garnered a dedicated fan base, many long-time enthusiasts felt it strayed too far from the series’ original vision.
The Decline and Hope for Revival
In the years following Most Wanted, the franchise experienced a series of ups and downs. Titles like Need for Speed: Carbon and Need for Speed: ProStreet attempted to recapture the magic but often fell short. The series seemed to be in a perpetual state of identity crisis, struggling to balance realism with the over-the-top action that newer fans had come to expect.
Despite these challenges, there were notable exceptions. Games developed by Slightly Mad Studios, such as Need for Speed: Shift, brought a renewed focus on realistic driving mechanics and track-based racing. Criterion Games, known for their work on the Burnout series, also breathed new life into the franchise with their 2010 reboot of Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. These entries were well-received and demonstrated that the series still had the potential to innovate and excite.
And while EA is showing no sign of returning the series to its halcyon days, maybe pre-halcyon will do. A new Most Wanted has shown up on an E3 Booth schedule, sparking speculation that this might be the latest in a string of Criterion remakes.
The announcement of a new Most Wanted has generated considerable buzz among fans and industry insiders alike. Given Criterion’s track record, there is hope that this new installment will blend the best elements of the original with modern advancements in gaming technology. The potential for enhanced graphics, more dynamic gameplay, and a richer narrative experience has many eagerly anticipating what Criterion will bring to the table.
Moreover, the resurgence of interest in the franchise could signal a broader trend in the gaming industry. As developers and publishers look to capitalize on nostalgia, we may see more classic titles being reimagined for a new generation of gamers. This approach not only honors the legacy of beloved franchises but also introduces them to players who may have missed out on the originals.
In conclusion, while the Need for Speed series has had its share of missteps, the potential for a revival is very much alive. The upcoming Most Wanted remake by Criterion could be the catalyst that propels the franchise back to its former glory. Fans old and new will be watching closely to see if this latest entry can deliver on its promise and reignite the passion that made Need for Speed a household name in the world of racing games.
Source IGN
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