The beginning of a revolutionary street racing classic
Need for Speed: Underground was a major turning point for the Need For Speed series, shifting the focus to street racing, car customization, and a neon-lit urban aesthetic. Developed by EA, this racing game is Inspired by the underground racing scene and films, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience with intense races, deep customization, and a high-energy soundtrack that perfectly complements the fast-paced action.
Need for Speed: Underground makes it exciting with the extravagant displays of freedom with every car available, able to customize almost all aspects of your chosen vehicle, making racing even more enjoyable.
Fast-paced racing with deep customization
Need for Speed: Underground revolves around arcade-style racing with a mix of circuit races, drag races, sprints, and drift competitions. The handling is smooth yet challenging, rewarding players who master cornering and nitrous boosts. One of Underground’s standout features is its deep car customization, allowing players to upgrade performance, tweak visuals with decals and body kits, and create their dream street racing machine.
Another revolution done by the game is the career mode which offers a steady progression of challenges, but the lack of police chases unlike later NFS titles means there’s no law enforcement to add extra tension. But it does not detract from the racing fun as the racetracks and AI keep the different stages of the game challenging. However, grinding to unlock all cars and customizing them can be repetitive.
For its time, Underground boasted impressive graphics, with wet roads reflecting neon lights and motion blur enhancing the sense of speed. The game’s urban environment, set entirely at night, adds to its stylish appeal. The soundtrack is another highlight, featuring high-energy rock and hip-hop tracks that fit the underground racing vibe. While the repetitive cityscape can feel monotonous after extended play, the overall presentation remains strong.
A defining street racing experience
Need for Speed: Underground set a new standard for street racing games with its thrilling gameplay, deep customization, and stylish urban atmosphere. Its arcade-style racing, immersive career mode, and high-energy soundtrack create an exciting experience that remains enjoyable today. While some elements, like repetitive environments and the absence of police chases, hold it back, it remains a landmark title that shaped the future of the Need for Speed series.
