FYI: Need for Speed Unbound is poised to make 2024 the most thrilling year in the franchise’s history, with quarterly updates and exciting new features like dedicated PvP modes and innovative customization options.
Need for Speed Unbound’s 2024 Roadmap: A Year to Remember
By Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
The year 2024 promises to be a landmark for the Need for Speed franchise as it gears up for its most exhilarating year yet. With the anticipated arrival of Need for Speed Unbound’s updates, the racing game is set to thrill fans with quarterly volumes packed with new features and content.
Kicking Off with Vol. 6
The excitement began in February with Volume 6, which brought the iconic Audi back to the Need for Speed universe. This update also introduced a dedicated PvP mode, elevating multiplayer gaming to new heights.
Volume 7: A Nod to the Classics
Fast forward to May, Volume 7 paid homage to the beloved NFS Underground. This edition reintroduced Drag and Drift modes, refined driving physics, introduced Legendary Customs, and added two impressive Speedhunters Customs.
What’s New in Volume 8: Cops vs. Racers
With August coming to a close, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Volume 8, known as "Cops vs. Racers." This latest update revives the thrilling "Hot Pursuit" mode, putting players head-to-head with the game’s most aggressive police AI yet.
Police vs. Racers: The Showdown
In this adrenaline-pumping mode, players can choose to be either a cop or a racer in a 4v4 team setup. For the police to win, they need to catch all four racers, while the racers only need one member to reach the finish line.
Advanced Pursuit Technology
Volume 8 introduces new tracking technology for players choosing to be cops. This includes deployable spike strips, engine-disabling EMPs, and riot-spec ESF battering rams. In addition, players can customize their police forces with LED light bars, bull bars, and even pre-made message boards that include cool signature LED trails to taunt opponents.
New Rides and Customizations
Volume 8 expands the car roster with two new vehicles: the breathtaking 1,972 horsepower Lotus Evija, available through the Speed Pass, and the ultra-stylish Porsche 959 S, unlocked via the Premium Speed Pass.
Volume 8 also introduces 45 free tiers in the Speedpass, featuring the 2023 Evija and its body kit along with rare customizations. The Premium Speedpass unlocks an additional 30 tiers, which include nine unique police customizations.
Legendary Customs and Iconic Rides
Cops vs. Racers boasts the most extensive customization options ever, including two Speedhunters customs and two NFS Legends customs. Notably, the Lotus Evija gets a "traditional" JDM-inspired street racer look, while the Porsche 959 S features a design influenced by racing titans like the 935/78 "Moby Dick."
The Signature Style
The Lotus Evija custom design takes cues from the Hot Pursuit 2010 cover art and Fredric Aasbø’s 2012 GT86 drift car, blending nostalgia with modern flair. The Porsche 959 S, on the other hand, is a tribute to the body’s creative inspiration from the original 961 race car, featuring classic elements like BBS wheels and custom turbofans.
A Glimpse Into the Real World
Interestingly, the Porsche 959 S custom police car design features an entirely carbon-made body, echoing the impressive and sometimes extravagant real-world police vehicles, such as Lamborghinis and Bugattis used in various countries.
More to Come
Volume 8 of Need for Speed Unbound is available for download now, offering additional 30 exclusive upgrades to those opting for the Premium Speed Pass. And while fans are already buzzing about this release, there’s even more to look forward to as the fourth and final update of the year promises to be the crowning achievement.
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Need for Speed enthusiasts, buckle up. 2024 is set to be a ride like no other, packed with high-speed thrills, intense police chases, and unparalleled customization options. Stay tuned for even more updates from Unbound as the year unfolds.
