Digital Foundry has wasted no time creating a tech review of the new Need for Speed Unbound racing game. Comparing the gameplay across a number of different platforms including PS5 vs Xbox. Need for Speed Unbound officially launched this week and is now available to play on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles. Developed by Criterion Games and published by Electronic Arts, the game is the 25th in the Need for Speed franchise yet is the first created by the team at Criterion since 2013.
Set in a fictional city called Lakeshore City, the racing game features an open world map inspired by Chicago and allows players to make a name for themselves street racing. The game introduces a fresh art style that blends realistic graphics with vibrant, graffiti-like effects, making it visually distinct from its predecessors.
Gameplay and Features
Need for Speed Unbound offers a variety of gameplay modes, including single-player campaigns and multiplayer options. The single-player campaign follows the story of a young racer aiming to rise through the ranks of the underground racing scene. Players can customize their cars extensively, from performance upgrades to aesthetic modifications, allowing for a personalized racing experience.
The game also features a dynamic weather system and a day-night cycle, which not only affect the visual aesthetics but also influence the racing conditions. For instance, rain can make the roads slippery, adding an extra layer of challenge to the races. The police chases, a staple of the Need for Speed series, are more intense and strategic in Unbound, requiring players to use their skills and the environment to evade capture.
Technical Aspects and Performance
“It’s been many years since the legendary Criterion delivered a new Need for Speed game, but the studio is back with NFS Unbound and… it’s really impressive! In this video, Oliver Mackenzie discusses how the Frostbite engine is deployed on this title, how it ranks against Criterion’s prior NFS classics – and yes, we get the full lowdown on how PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S compare.”
The game runs on the Frostbite engine, known for its high-quality graphics and performance. On next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, Need for Speed Unbound supports 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, providing a smooth and visually stunning experience. The Xbox Series S, while not as powerful, still delivers a commendable performance with slightly lower resolution but maintaining a high frame rate.
PC players with high-end hardware can push the game even further, with options for ultra-wide monitors and advanced graphical settings. The game also supports ray tracing, which enhances the lighting and reflections, making the virtual world of Lakeshore City even more immersive.
Official gameplay trailer
In conclusion, Need for Speed Unbound marks a triumphant return for Criterion Games to the franchise. With its unique art style, engaging gameplay, and impressive technical performance, it stands out as a must-play for racing game enthusiasts. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer, Unbound offers a thrilling and visually captivating racing experience.
Source: Digital Foundry
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