Need for Speed ProStreet is a striking example of how a legendary franchise can evolve while maintaining its core essence, all while daring to introduce radical changes. The developers made a bold decision to move away from the arcade-style gameplay and embrace more realism. This shift towards realism posed a challenge for both the developers and the players, who were accustomed to the fast-paced, dynamic arcade races of previous entries. Nevertheless, this decision proved to be quite successful, and ProStreet has plenty to offer, even to the most dedicated fans of the series.
One of the first noticeable differences that sets ProStreet apart from its predecessors is the absence of an open world, which had almost become the franchise's calling card since the release of games like Need for Speed Underground 2 or Most Wanted. Instead, the game presents races in a tournament format, which fundamentally changes the approach to gameplay. Gone is the free-roaming through the city in search of races or evading the police - everything is much more structured now. This creates a new dimension for the game, allowing the player to focus entirely on the races without being distracted by secondary elements.
The tournament format allows players to test their skills on various tracks and in different race types. Here, you can try your hand at different categories of competition, such as drag racing, highway battles, and drifting. This variety helps keep the player engaged, preventing the gameplay from becoming monotonous. Each race type demands different skills and a unique approach to vehicle control, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay.
Visual improvements are another important aspect that significantly enhances the overall experience of the game. The cars look incredibly detailed, almost like their real-world counterparts, which is a visual delight. Players can appreciate every little detail in the design of the cars, from the bodywork to the wheels. This heightened attention to detail enhances the immersion in the game, making each race feel more realistic thanks to the visual design.
Beyond the graphics, an essential part of realism is the car handling. It has also undergone significant changes compared to previous installments. Cars now handle more realistically, requiring the player to pay more attention and be more precise during races. This applies to how the car behaves on the road and how it reacts to different weather conditions or damage during the race. This aspect makes the game more challenging and, at the same time, more engaging, as players can no longer rely solely on speed - they must control every movement of the vehicle.
However, not everything in ProStreet is perfect, and one of the most controversial aspects of the game is the drifting mode. While the game offers excellent gameplay overall, many players encounter difficulties when it comes to drifting. The handling in this mode feels illogical and often unmanageable, which can spoil the gaming experience. Drifting, which in previous parts of the series was one of the most beloved modes by many players, feels less exciting here due to the difficulty of controlling the car. This can lead to frustration, especially for those who enjoyed drifting in earlier entries in the franchise.
Despite these shortcomings, Need for Speed ProStreet remains a significant step forward for the series. The shift away from arcade gameplay and towards a more realistic approach allowed the game to attract new fans and offer a fresh perspective on classic racing. The game has managed to retain its signature dynamism while also giving players more opportunities for tactical play and skill improvement.
Overall, ProStreet is well worth the attention of any racing game fan, especially those who value realism and visual beauty. While it has its flaws, particularly in the drifting mode, these do not make it any less appealing. ProStreet offers players a new racing experience, allowing it to maintain its popularity among fans of the genre.
