Need for Speed™ Most Wanted
" Fast-paced open-world racing action with smooth drifting and police chases but costly DLCs "
Need for Speed™ Most Wanted Review
Need for Speed™ Most Wanted (2012) is a high-octane arcade racing game that offers an open-world experience with a variety of cars and police chases. The gameplay is praised for its fast-paced, pick-up-and-play nature and smooth drifting mechanics, making it accessible and enjoyable for casual players. The graphics and sound design receive positive remarks, with many appreciating the detailed cityscape and immersive car sounds. Players also highlight the thrill of chasing or escaping cops and the excitement of racing against the 'Most Wanted' drivers.
However, the game faces criticism for its short campaign length and lack of depth in story and customization compared to the original 2005 Most Wanted. Many express frustration with the aggressive DLC model, which locks much content behind paywalls, detracting from the experience. Technical issues such as the mandatory EA launcher, buggy controls, and inconsistent AI behavior also affect player enjoyment. Overall, it is considered a fun arcade racer but not a true successor to the classic title.
Highlights
Players praise the game's fast-paced arcade racing mechanics, smooth drifting, and accessible controls that allow quick entry into exciting races. Graphics and sound design stand out, with detailed environments and realistic car sounds enhancing immersion. The open-world map offers a good variety of cars to find and upgrade, and police pursuits add thrilling moments. The 'Most Wanted' races provide challenging gameplay and a sense of progression. Nostalgia for the 2012 version and its Burnout-inspired gameplay is also noted positively.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's lack of a compelling storyline and shallow customization options, which disappoint fans of the original. The aggressive DLC strategy frustrates players, as much content, including cars and map expansions, is locked behind paywalls. The EA launcher is frequently reported as unstable and inconvenient, causing launch issues. Controls and interface have usability problems, including poor keybinding options and an unreliable GPS system. Police AI is inconsistent, sometimes too easy or annoyingly difficult. The short campaign and repetitive races reduce replay value.
Pros
- • Fast-paced and accessible arcade racing gameplay suitable for casual players.
- • Smooth drifting mechanics that feel rewarding and fun.
- • High-quality graphics with detailed city environments.
- • Immersive car sounds and a nostalgic soundtrack.
- • Open-world map with a wide variety of cars to discover.
- • Exciting police chases that add tension to races.
- • Challenging 'Most Wanted' races that enhance progression.
Cons
- • Much content locked behind expensive DLCs frustrating players.
- • No compelling storyline or deep customization options.
- • Mandatory EA launcher causes frequent technical issues.
- • Inconsistent and sometimes poor police AI behavior.
- • Short campaign length limits game duration and depth.
- • Unreliable GPS system confuses navigation during races.
- • Controls and interface lack flexibility and keybinding options.
Rating Criteria
The open-world action in Need for Speed Most Wanted gives you the freedom to drive your way. Hit jumps and shortcuts, switch cars, lie low or head for terrain that plays to your vehicle’s unique strengths. Fight your way past cops and rivals using skill, high-end car tech and tons of nitrous.
