8 Need For Speed Titles That Deserve a Remaster Treatment

Reflecting on my childhood in the vibrant 2000s, few experiences brought me as much joy as diving into the Need for Speed franchise. Whether racing on my PS2, PSP, or competing on my cousins’ PC, these games became synonymous with my formative years. However, as this iconic series has faced fluctuations in quality with its recent titles, it is disheartening to witness the older games being overlooked by EA, a treatment that feels almost criminal given their legacy.

It seems perplexing that a billion-dollar company would overlook the potent profit potential that could arise from revamping these nostalgic classics. In this article, I’ll spotlight several Need for Speed titles begging for a remaster, as they could resonate with today’s fans—many of whom grew up relishing these unforgettable racing experiences.

8 Need For Speed: The Run

The Last NFS from Black Box Studios

Considered one of the more distinctive entries in the series, Need for Speed: The Run adopts a linear approach, contrasting sharply with the open-world environments that define other titles. While its visuals hold up well today, a remaster tailored for current-gen consoles could introduce a new generation to the thrilling action and narrative that characterized this game.

Though some aspects, like its awkward quick-time events and multiplayer shortcomings, may not have aged entirely well, reviving this title could reignite interest among players who missed out on this action-packed experience.

7 Need For Speed: Porsche Unleashed

Deserves the Spotlight

One of the series’ lesser-known gems, NFS: Porsche Unleashed stands out for its unique, simulation-focused gameplay. Its Factory Driver mode was revolutionary, laying groundwork that many racing games would later adopt. What truly sets this title apart is its extensive catalog of Porsche vehicles, providing players insight into the brand’s rich automotive heritage.

A remake, rather than a mere remaster, would do justice to this classic. In today’s racing game landscape—especially alongside successful simulation titles such as Gran Turismo 7—it could thrive anew.

6 Need for Speed: ProStreet

A Promising Yet Bleak Motorsport Show

Marking a departure from the series’ underground roots, Need for Speed: ProStreet introduced players to a world of enclosed motorsport events. Though the game had its charm, it faced mixed reviews due to repetitive tracks and a grinding career mode. A remaster could infuse it with necessary quality-of-life improvements, ensuring it stands tall against competitors like Forza and The Crew.

5 Need For Speed Rivals

Cops & Robbers

During my teenage years, the PS4 was paramount for many, and NFS Rivals was a standout title upon its release. Its engaging Cops & Robbers game mechanic provided a thrilling experience reminiscent of earlier Hot Pursuit games. The dynamic gameplay, featuring a seamless matchmaking system and a robust weather mechanic, enriched the racing experience.

With the game now being a decade old, a remaster could enhance its legacy by addressing technical flaws such as frame-rate issues and bugs that impacted the original gameplay experience.

4 Shift 2: Unleashed

High-Stakes, High-Risk

Following the unique motorsport-focused direction of ProStreet, Shift 2: Unleashed took a significant leap towards realism, enhancing the gameplay with features like helmet POV cameras and nighttime racing. Despite challenges like licensing issues, this title remains a candidate for a remaster, especially given the resurgence in popularity of sim-racing games spurred by titles like Gran Turismo 7 and Assetto Corsa.

3 Need For Speed: Underground 2

Riders on the Storm

The NFS Underground series captures a unique era in gaming, emerging as a response to the street racing cultural phenomenon driven by films like Fast and Furious.NFS Underground 2 not only built upon its predecessor’s innovations but also introduced an open-world environment and extensive customization options, making it a beloved sequel.

A well-executed remaster that honors the original’s spirit could potentially breathe new life into the series and rekindle interest from both old and new fans.

2 Need For Speed: Carbon

It All Gets Settled in the Canyon

Often overshadowed by other entries, NFS Carbon has unique gameplay elements, including police pursuits and crew mechanics. Despite a brief career mode, it has the potential to shine in a modern remaster, especially if bundled with its sibling title, NFS Most Wanted ’06. Such a re-release could be a significant gesture from EA toward dedicated fans frustrated by recent neglect of this franchise.

1 Need For Speed: Most Wanted

Becoming Rockport’s Most Wanted Racer

The moment NFS Most Wanted kicked off with the explosive track “Nine Thou”by Styles of Beyond, it captivated players, becoming a defining title for many. Characterized by an engaging narrative of rivalry and police chases, it remains a fan favorite.

Undoubtedly, the game deserves a modern remaster to captivate new audiences, while also addressing issues like repetitive track designs and outdated AI mechanics. If executed well, a remastered version of Most Wanted could easily resonate with both nostalgic players and newcomers alike, delivering an experience that honors the original’s thrilling essence.

It’s crucial that any remaster respects the artistic integrity of the original—encompassing everything from its gritty aesthetic and catchy soundtrack to the exhilarating police encounters that kept players on the edge of their seats.

Source & Images

Related Articles:

Top 10 Survival Games Featuring Soulslike Mechanics

Top 10 Metroidvania Games to Convert You into a Fan

Comprehensive Reggie Guide: Master the Art of Dating Everything

Top 10 Iconic Boss Fights From the PS1 Era

It Takes Two vs Split Fiction: A Comparison of the Best Cooperative Games

My Hero Academia: Ranking the 6 Most Powerful Awakenings

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *