Need For Speed Devs discuss Challenge of making new NFS Games

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As someone who has grown up with the Need For Speed series, I can confidently say that it’s not just a game, but a part of my gaming history. From the adrenaline-pumping races of Hot Pursuit to the underground street racing of Underground, each title has left an indelible mark on me.

This year marks the 30th anniversary for the Need For Speed series, an impressive feat in the world of entertainment. Over the years since 1994, the series has undergone numerous transformations. From introducing fresh gameplay mechanics, refining control systems, and incorporating iconic vehicles, NFS has experienced significant changes while keeping its primary audience engaged. All these advancements have enabled the franchise to remain contemporary across various gaming platforms through multiple generations.

Need For Speed Devs Discuss The Challenge of developing a New NFS Game

During a recent discussion among creators of the Need For Speed series, they shared some significant hurdles they’ve encountered while producing new installments for the franchise.

According to Patrick Honnoraty, Producer, today’s major hurdle seems to be the long-standing history of the franchise. The series has taken on various forms and attracted a wide range of audiences. It’s not uncommon to see discussions among players about which game is superior and why they believe it is the best.

A more accurate statement would be that no truer words have ever been said about the entire series. If you believe that Need For Speed managed to last for 30 years in the industry merely by being a racing game, then you’re incorrect. From Underground to Most Wanted to Unbound, the series has undergone numerous changes and adaptations to reach its current state.

Honnoraty explained that ‘Need for Speed’ evokes a variety of meanings among various individuals. It’s a sentiment tied to their memories of playing those games.

For any video game series, enthusiasts often argue passionately about which title takes the crown as the best. This constant disagreement poses a challenge for developers, as they strive to create games that cater to fans across different titles in the franchise. As technology advances and new innovations are introduced, this debate only grows more prolonged.

Some players may be particularly fond of the classic Hot Pursuit Mode in Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, while others might appreciate the crew-based gameplay in Need for Speed: Carbon. Every gamer typically has a favorite title or two from the series that they hold close to their heart.

According to Justin Wiebe, who’s been part of the project since 2002, “If you aim to create something for everyone,” he notes, “You often dilute it and end up with a product that appeals to no one.” When embarking on a fresh project, Wiebe emphasizes the importance of zeroing in on a specific aspect and pushing it further. Admittedly, this is a challenging task, but the team has been making commendable decisions thus far.

At present, it appears that strategy is our most effective course of action. Rather than focusing on pleasing a broader audience, it’s wiser to build upon the series’ existing strong points. That’s likely the reason behind its longevity.

Despite the series being quite old, its creators have managed to find unique ways to modernize it and keep it engaging. With nine volumes in Unbound alone, there’s always something fresh to explore. Criterion has done an impressive job of balancing innovation with staying true to the original spirit of the series, leaving us eagerly anticipating their next move.

In the latest update, discover all about Need for Speed (NFS) Volume 9 Lockdown. This exciting expansion offers a wealth of fresh material, including the thrill of riding a motorcycle!

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2024-12-06 23:08