Some games are ported over to the Iphone virtually intact and simply fitted with new controls (Resident Evil Regeneration) while others come with slight tune-ups and updates(Galaxy on Fire 2). Then there are some like Need for Speed Undercover by EA that are given major overhauls, virtually rebuilt to race the Iphone track. The end result, in this case, is a game that is bigger, bolder and many times better than it’s Java origins could of ever suggested.
There’s an incredible sense of excitement to NFS Undercover with screaming tires, sirens, cops, helicopters and traffic in every direction - including across intersections. More than simply racing from point A to B, Need for Speed Undercover simulates life in the fast lane. The nice FMV does a good job of drawing you into the story of an undercover agent trying to infiltrate an underground street racing gang. Your involvement becomes complete as you start to purchase and customize the 19 beautiful licensed cars and then take to the streets to engage in a wide array of terrific races that propel the story.
Visually and sonically NFS is a feast for the senses. The graphics are outstanding both on the road and in your garage where you can customize your ride with body kits, paint jobs, vinyls, spoilers and wheels plus all the mechanical upgrades for a price. This adds to your attachment and involvement in the game. The street graphics are just fantastic, more vivid and alive than any other street racer with great draw distance and detail so you can easily pick up on-coming vehicles in order to avoid the dreaded head-on’s. Although some may be tempted to seek out these head-on’s just to witness the spectacular flying collisions you can have. Great fun!
Of course, the purpose is to win the race and for that you’re given rock solid accelerometer controls. Hard turns or slight adjustments feel perfect and appropriate to the car you’re driving. Swipe up for nitro and swipe down for a nice slow-motion speed breaker. One of the strategic game play elements is the ability to nudge or block your opponent or pursuing black and white into on-coming traffic. You’ll smile as you hear the collision but unfortunately, you can’t witness the carnage due to your speed. You’ll wish for a rearview mirror or replay. Add to that the slow motion and you have races full of thrilling near-misses and spectacular pile-ups that lift this street racer to another level.
NFS Underground displays a nice sense of speed when you hit the nitro but there is a slight frame rate stutter with a lot of vehicles and action on the screen. The roads are littered with destructible signs, garbage bins, barriers and cones for a little extra-curricular enjoyment and the sound is dead perfect, although I turned the hard-rock music down to a dull roar to better hear the total SFX.
The map offers 24 races in three different cities. You’re free to rerun any completed race to earn extra cash for new cars or upgrades which gives the game longevity. You’ll be more than happy to rerun these exciting races and in some cases you’ll be required to due to their increasing difficulty. The race types include circuit lap elimination, sprints, cop chases, highway battles, cop take-outs and hot car races in which you must return a hot car intact while being pursued by the police. NFS even tosses some story related surprises into some of the racing. Although drifting is implemented it’s not essential to winning and there is no multiplayer.
While the price is a bit steep, you get what you pay for, which in the case of Need For Speed Undercover is a fantastic 5 star thrill ride more vibrant, action-packed and engrossing than any other. It’s a console-quality rocket in your pocket.
Reviewed by goyami - Iphone