Electronic Arts is taking a completely new tack with its Need for Speed series, announcing that the next version of the game will actually be three versions, not just one. Among the batch of new Need for Speed games will be a Need for Speed MMO.
Yes, a massively multiplayer racing game from EA. Told you it was a radical change.
Need for Speed World Online, set to release this winter in North America (in the summer in Asia) is being co-developed by Black Box and EA Singapore. As an MMO, Need for Speed World Online will be a PC exclusive — and according to EA, will feature “the largest open world in the history of Need for Speed.” Beginning in Asia, this Play 4 Free action racing game (translation: it’s supported by ads) will give Need for Speed fans access to licensed cars, parts and multiple game modes. Players will prove their racing supremacy through the online matchmaking features and fully customize their profile and their ride.
The second of the three new Need for Speed games will come to the PS3, Xbox 360, PSP and PC: Need for Speed SHIFT. Set to ship this fall, Need for Speed SHIFT is developed by the team responsible for GT Legends and GTR 2. The game will include a first-person cockpit view camera and an all-new crash mechanic.
And the third new game, Need for Speed NITRO (a working title) will be exclusive for the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS when it ships this fall. Need for Speed NITRO will let players build up their boost as they drift and drag behind opponents. And yes, players will have to watch out for the cops, too. The game will feature a variety of licensed cars that can be fully customized as in other NFS games.
