Need for Speed: Heat

Our analysis

A disappointing entry that does little to lift the series, ending up about as mediocre as expected. It has a decent open world, good-looking cars, solid graphics, satisfying non-cosmetic damage, and easy, capable car customization. But the day/night Bank-and-Rep loop grows monotonous and repetitive, the story and characters are rancid, the AI is far too easy even on hard, there is no cockpit view, and the multiplayer is thin and underused.

Our analysis

Need for Speed Heat has solid arcade racing, a fun night-mode cop-chase risk-and-reward loop, and deep car customization. Palm City is empty, though, and the races lack variety. Jake says it doesn't feel like a full-price game and suggests buying it on sale.

Our analysis

Need for Speed Heat offers solid racing and map design, with a satisfying rhythm between earning cash by day and unlocking upgrades at night. However, undercooked online play and sloppy technical details leave it feeling half-baked.