Now, let's be upfront about this. Racing games ain't my thing. More importantly, cars are something I actively dislike. But there's the odd game that piques my interest. The Crew because it did something interesting, and the Need for Speed series because they take themselves just seriously enough to be engaging, but not seriously enough that they stop being a bit of silly fun. And this latest instalment, a pseudo reboot, is presenting itself as no exception to that rule. Blending fully digital animation with live action story segments (probably) to produce an enjoyable little romp through city streets.
This latest chapter is making a point of stating that "you" are the star here. As opposed to all those other yous, from other games, who weren't really you, you just thought were you...you know? Anyway. This time it's the "real" you. And you have some street "icons" along for the ride.
Speed Icon - Magnus Walker collects and restores classic Porsche 911s. He is known for his high speed driving and will push you to enhance your reputation through adrenaline-fuelled driving.
Style Icon - Ken Block is notorious for his style of aggressive driving, as he showcases in his phenomenal YouTube GYMKHANA series. Earn his recognition by mastering the art of precision sliding and jumping through corners and on the streets.
Build Icon - Nakai-san is the founder of RAUH-Welt BEGRIFF (RWB), a world renowned tuning and customising company. Focus on creating that perfect customised ride as you look to impress him.
Crew Icon - Risky Devil are an infamous drift crew. These guys are the kings of close proximity driving and control. Ride in packs, inches away from wiping each other out as you get to grips with precise control and wild drift trains.
Outlaw Icon - Morohoshi-san doesn't care how people categorise him, he just does what he wants. He's often seen on the night streets rolling around in his customised ride. Risk it all as you mess with and escape from the cops to grab his attention.
Of course, we have no idea who the hell these people are supposed to be, and the above video doesn't really tell us all that much. But it's dripping with attitude and some, admittedly, very pretty in game footage of the cars you'll be driving and facing off against.
Or, in short. Yep, looks like Need for Speed to me.
