Returning Need for Speed to Its Roots: Suggestions and Feedback

Thoughts and Suggestions about the Need for Speed Series

Dear EA Team,

I’m a long-time fan of the Need for Speed series, and I would like to share my feelings and thoughts with you. In this letter, I want to express both my nostalgic views as a fan and my suggestions for future games.

The History and Iconic Games of Need for Speed

Games like Need for Speed: Underground, Underground 2, and Most Wanted (2005) have left unforgettable marks on many players’ lives. These games were not just racing games, but also unique in their storytelling, atmosphere, and culture-based experiences. I can summarize the main reasons for the success of these games as follows:

• Story-Focused Structure: Simple yet impactful stories helped players form an emotional connection with the game. Unforgettable rivals like Razor in Most Wanted or the mysterious tournaments in Underground are great examples.

• Deep Customization Options: The level of vehicle customization offered allowed players to create their own unique style. Cars became more than just game assets—they were extensions of the players themselves.

• Police Pursuits: The high-stakes police chases in Most Wanted created an adrenaline rush, offering players a unique and exciting experience.

• Unforgettable Soundtracks: The hip-hop and electronic tracks from Underground or rock songs in Most Wanted contributed greatly to the atmosphere of the games.

The Current State of the Need for Speed Series

In recent years, the latest Need for Speed games haven't quite managed to capture the excitement and thrill that earlier titles provided. One of the main reasons for this seems to be the focus on online modes, which has pushed the story and atmosphere to the background.

While online features are undoubtedly popular and appealing to some players, there are still many players, like myself, who yearn for a single-player, story-driven experience.

My Suggestions

To bring Need for Speed back to its former glory, I have the following suggestions:

• Return to Story-Driven, Single-Player Games: A simple yet impactful story, for example, about a street racer starting small with tournaments and eventually battling larger gangs and the police, would be a great direction to follow.

• Deep Customization Options: The vehicle customization should return to the level of detail seen in the Underground series. Both visual and performance customizations would attract players.

• Police Pursuits: High-tension and strategic police chase mechanics should be reintroduced. A system like the Heat level from Most Wanted, where the police become increasingly aggressive, would be a fantastic addition.

• Unforgettable Atmosphere: Features like midnight street races, neon lights, and rainy asphalt roads could bring back the unique atmosphere of Underground.

• Emphasis on Soundtrack: Music that perfectly complements the game's mood should once again be a focal point.

• Remakes or Sequel Games: Remaking games like Underground or Most Wanted 2005 with modern graphics and mechanics, or developing new games directly continuing from these titles, could be a fantastic strategy.

Final Thoughts

I believe the number of players who, like me, long for the old Need for Speed experience and wish to relive those nostalgic moments is not small at all. If EA hears this voice and develops a game that brings the NFS series back to its roots, it could embrace both new generations of players and its old fanbase once again.

If you take my suggestions into consideration, my love for the series as a player will only grow stronger. I hope my ideas inspire you.

Thank you!

Best regards,
Yiğit İncesulu