In a recent update, I shared how EA was teasing the next installment in the Need for Speed franchise. Now, the company has made it official with the announcement of Need for Speed Unbound.

The game has sparked conversations, particularly about its incorporation of anime-inspired visuals, including character designs and certain animated effects. Personally, I find these features to resemble more of a comic book aesthetic.

To accompany the announcement, EA released a cinematic trailer that includes snippets of gameplay. The trailer is also set to the tune of A$AP Rocky's latest track, “Sh*ttin’ Me.”

From what we've seen, the gameplay appears to echo that of previous Need for Speed titles, but the introduction of distinct anime and cartoon elements adds an intriguing flair.

Scheduled for release on December 2nd, Need for Speed Unbound will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The storyline is set in Lakeshore, where players take on the role of a novice racer on a quest to reclaim a vehicle stolen from a family garage.

EA highlighted that players will strive to conquer the “ultimate street racing challenge” known as The Grand.

Here are some new features in Need for Speed Unbound as outlined by EA:

• The World is Each Player’s Canvas: Graffiti becomes dynamic through a fresh art style as players navigate the city, armed with an innovative toolkit that includes high-energy visual and audio effects like Burst Nitrous, which provides boosts based on a player's driving style.
• Run the Streets: The more players engage in races, the more heat they generate. They can choose to either outmaneuver or outsmart law enforcement using new escape mechanics, which will determine their rewards or risks of capture.
• Self-Expression and Style: With hundreds of cosmetic options, including licensed gear from leading fashion innovators and automotive companies, players can customize their vehicles while showcasing their personal style within the game.
• Find Freedom in the Flow: Players will enjoy a groundbreaking soundtrack featuring hip-hop icons, including A$AP Rocky and his creative agency AWGE. Notably, the new track “Sh*ttin’ Me” makes its world premiere in the reveal trailer.
• Takeover Scene featuring A$AP Rocky: A$AP Rocky will serve as the figurehead of the Takeover Scene, a new mode centered around precision driving that unites the community to claim various city areas and celebrate stylish driving over sheer speed. AWGE also contributed creatively to the game.

Preorders are currently available, offering exclusive perks for early buyers. Those who preorder before November 29th will receive in-game bonuses, such as:

• Decals
• License Plates
• Banner Artworks
• $150,000 in-game currency

The standard edition retails for $70, while the Unbound Palace edition is priced at $80, including various digital extras, with more details to be shared soon.

On November 29th, EA will also provide a 10-hour trial for the game, and EA Play Pro members will gain immediate access to the Unbound Palace edition.

Additionally, EA has announced a commitment to “a series of free content updates” post-launch, which will introduce:

• New Features
• New Experiences
• Content Drops
• And More

After losing interest in Forza Horizon 5, I'm eagerly anticipating the release of Need for Speed Unbound.

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