What are the pros of Need for Speed™?

Exceptional photorealistic graphics that still compete with modern racing titles. Immersive night-time atmosphere and authentic street racing vibes. Fun arcade-style gameplay that appeals to casual racing fans. Strong community support providing essential mods and fixes for technical issues.

What are the cons of Need for Speed™?

Frustrating and inconsistent handling mechanics, including issues with oversteer and 'crabwalking'. Mandatory always-online requirement prevents offline solo play and threatens longevity. Poorly balanced endgame content and frustrating drift mission scoring. Short campaign length and reliance on the EA launcher.

Need for Speed™

Ready to own the streets? Get behind the wheel of iconic cars and floor it through Ventura Bay, a sprawling urban playground. Explore overlapping stories as you build your reputation – and your dream car – and become the ultimate racing icon.

69%

Mixed

DeveloperGhost Games

PublisherElectronic Arts

Release DateJun 4, 2020

$29.99

Peak Players1.5K

Controllerfull

PlatformsWindows

AI Review Summary

Need for Speed (2015) is a visually stunning arcade racer that captures a moody, photorealistic night-time atmosphere which remains impressive years after its release. While it offers a fun street racing vibe, the experience is frequently undermined by divisive handling physics and a mandatory always-online requirement that frustrates solo players.

Pros

Exceptional photorealistic graphics that still compete with modern racing titles100%
Immersive night-time atmosphere and authentic street racing vibes90%
Fun arcade-style gameplay that appeals to casual racing fans70%
Strong community support providing essential mods and fixes for technical issues60%

Cons

Frustrating and inconsistent handling mechanics, including issues with oversteer and 'crabwalking'90%
Mandatory always-online requirement prevents offline solo play and threatens longevity80%
Poorly balanced endgame content and frustrating drift mission scoring70%
Short campaign length and reliance on the EA launcher60%

Notable Mentions

Reviewers strongly suggest using fan-made handling mods to improve the driving experience
Many players recommend purchasing the game only during deep discount sales
The game is often cited as a spiritual successor to the Underground series despite its flaws

Confidence: 100%

Based on the 111 most relevant reviewsGenerated on Aug 27, 2026

Game Vitals

Live snapshot

Player Activity

Current peak

494

Peak · last 90 days

1.5K

All-time peak

1.5K

Price

Current price

$29.99

Lowest tracked

$2.99since Dec 19, 2025

Review Sentiment

Launch week

—

Last 30 days

63%

All-time positive

69%

Review Statistics

Total Reviews29.5K

Positive: 20.4K (69%)Negative: 9.1K (31%)

Reviews from Steam Deck

Dev Response Rate

17h

Avg Playtime at Review

65%

Credible Reviews