The Ultimate Need for Speed Experience: A Deep Dive into EA Play's Racing Gems
When it comes to video game publishers, Electronic Arts (EA) stands tall as a giant in the industry. Racing fans worldwide are well-acquainted with their Need for Speed series, a staple in the genre of street racing games. If you’ve got an EA Play subscription, you're in luck! You can access an array of Need for Speed games across platforms like PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. But with so many options to choose from, finding the perfect game could get a bit overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Need for Speed titles available on EA Play and EA Play Pro, ranked from worst to best.
EA Play’s Impressive Need for Speed Line-Up
If you're already subscribed to EA Play or thinking about it, then the Need For Speed franchise should be on your radar. Among its offerings, EA Play includes six incredible Need for Speed titles, while EA Play Pro gives you access to a seventh: Need For Speed Unbound. Let's delve into each game, ranked from the least impressive to the cream of the crop, and see which ones stand out in this iconic racing series.
7. Need For Speed (2015)
The 2015 edition of Need for Speed may have been anticipated but turned out to be quite unremarkable. It’s not that it’s a bad game, but it lacks a defining identity. Borrowing heavily from other racing games, it struggles to offer something unique. It was released around the same time as the Need for Speed movie, which saw some success, leading the game to feature real actors in its cinematic scenes. While an interesting idea, it shifted focus away from the racing, rendering the overall experience a bit awkward. For fans looking for an arcade racer, better options are available on EA Play.
6. Need For Speed Rivals (2013)
Coming in next is Need For Speed Rivals, released in 2013. This game attempted to carry forward the success of its predecessor, Most Wanted, but ended up discarding many beloved elements in the process. The open-world map feels vast yet empty, lacking notable landmarks that make exploration exciting. Nevertheless, the racing remains enjoyable, allowing you to compete against AI or in multiplayer mode. However, with the launch of superior arcade racers like Forza Horizon 3 shortly after, the relevance of Rivals quickly faded.
5. Need For Speed Payback (2017)
Following the underwhelming reception of the 2015 title, EA Games made a comeback attempt in 2017 with Need For Speed Payback. Drawing inspiration from titles such as Burnout Paradise and The Crew, this game offers an open-world racing experience set in the fictional Fortune Valley. Players can switch between three characters, each specializing in street, off-road, or drag racing. While the story might leave a bit to be desired, exploration and collectible hunting are genuinely enjoyable. The game notably shed the "always-online" requirement, which helped improve performance and introduced an innovative social feature called "AllDrive."
4. Need For Speed Heat (2019)
In 2019, Need for Speed Heat brought the franchise back to its roots. It took successful elements from previous titles like Payback and the 2015 Need for Speed, adding a day/night cycle that adds a strategic layer to the racing. Set in a vibrant Palm City (reminiscent of Miami), you can choose to race either during the day for reputation points or at night for street cred necessary for performance upgrades. The game also features a robust customization system to make your car uniquely yours. Though not the most innovative, it’s a solid entry that's definitely worth playing.
3. Need For Speed Unbound (2022)
Need For Speed Unbound is the latest addition to the series, launching in 2022 and available exclusively to EA Play Pro subscribers. Set in a stylish open-world environment called Lakeshore, it invites players to paint the streets with their racing prowess. While the plot might not leave a lasting impression, the engaging gameplay certainly will. Although technical issues marred its launch, it still offers fresh perspectives with its unique features, albeit more as great visual enhancements rather than gameplay innovation.
2. Need For Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered (2020)
Originally released in 2010, Need For Speed Hot Pursuit got a well-deserved remaster in 2020 with updated graphics, new cars, and all the original game’s DLC. Despite its age, it remains an exhilarating fusion of racing and action. Featuring tools for taking down other drivers and evading the police, Hot Pursuit offers a uniquely thrilling racing experience. If you’re a fan of the franchise, this game is a must-play.
1. Need For Speed Most Wanted (2012)
Topping our list is the 2012 version of Need For Speed Most Wanted. Not to be confused with the 2005 release, this game has stood the test of time, offering what many consider the best features in any racing video game. With a massive world map packed with events and over 50 uniquely handling cars, it's an enduring fan favorite. Its exceptional soundtrack enhances the racing experience, and it was one of the early adopters of online multiplayer modes in the series. Even after a decade, it remains a standout title in the Need for Speed lineup.
Conclusion
With EA Play’s subscription service, racing enthusiasts have a treasure trove of Need for Speed games at their fingertips. Whether you're on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC (including Xbox Game Pass), the collection available is stellar. Among these, Need For Speed Most Wanted (2012) and Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered (2020) stand out as the definitive experiences. Both offer rich gameplay and features that have cemented their legacy in racing game history. If you’re a fan or even a newcomer to the franchise, these titles are not to be missed.
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