Need For Speed: The Run

I'm glad to say I rented this instead of buying it. The hype leading up to its release was understandable, with the pedigree of the NFS name speaking before it and the concept of a coast-to-coast race was mouth watering.

All aspects of the game are so badly implemented, however, and the title is completely ruined by errors that could have been avoided. To start, the main story. Best part of three hours to complete, with respect to retailers, how they can justify charging 40GBP for NFS The Run is mystifying.

Similar to the Modern Warfare games with a short story, there are 'Challenge Series' events, recycling the maps and completing more races. These are of mixed ability and if anything are too hard and very frustrating, you will find yourself restarting and crashing because of aggressive enemy AI and clumsy traffic AI.

On that point, the load times between restarts are unbearable, considering how far other games have come today.

Online, the game boasts an odd set up. Gain XP, the same seen throughout the game, much like other EA games. There is no 'straight race' option though, all opportunities of racing with friends are for 'group objectives'.

Traditional EA servers mean loading times are even worse, even with a super-fast connection. Once you're in there is no lag, granted, but you'll find yourself exiting and restarting your console before being inducted into a race.

Down to the finite detail, the game disappoints. Menu music is irritating and reminiscent of past COD games, not a boy-racer. In game music is outdated. Car handling is poor considering how good it has been in past NFS titles. Each car handles the same and there are no customisation options.

Overall, leaves a very sour taste in the mouth. Avoid at all costs.

I actually played this game at the Birmingham Motor Show, a couple of days before release, and it was dreadful.
The first thing to note is this game appears to have taken Hot Pursuit, thrown away the good bits, and added worse parts, the sweet drifting (one of hot pursuits only good points) has gone, replaced with very clumsy handling.
The AI are even less clever now than they were before, and as far as graphics go, they seem to have taken hot pursuit, and added weather.
Are there any good points at all?
Well, so far as I can see, no. The game does not feel fast, the nitrous is just odd to use these days.
If you're after a Need For Speed game, you're better off downloading a copy of Need For Speed World, it is significantly better than this, and it's completely free to play.
It's made by EA, and it's basically a collaberation of Most Wanted, Carbon, and Nfsu2, that's you're best bet, but if you want a serious racing game... Just don't buy Need for speed.

I loved this. I enjoy all the Need for Speed Pursuit games and this is the pinnacle. It plays like a movie and its as exciting and as gripping as some of the best action driving scenes you've ever seen. It grips you and never lets go. The action is immense. You'll find yourself getting closer and closer to the tv , swaying with every turn. The loading times could be better but it gives you a well earned breather. Its a very very small thing to complain about and is about as picky as saying Messi would be a better player if he cut his hair. A proper game. Classic

Loved this game, especially the online play. Looks great and lots of variation in the game play.

Love the action scenes and theres some really good races like when going down a mountain with an avalanche behind you. The main story mode is fairly short but lots of other races to participate in. Love it.