If you are a fan of racing games, then you have definitely heard of the iconic Need for Speed franchise. One of the most beloved games in this series is Need for Speed Underground, which was released back in 2003. This game marked a significant shift in the series, as it focused on illegal street racing and car customization. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and explore why Need for Speed: Underground is a classi racing game that defined an era.
Gameplay
Need for Speed: Underground was delivered for PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, and PC.. The game's main mode is the Underground Mode, where players compete in various races and challenges to earn money and unlock new cars and upgrades. The races take place in a fictional city called Olympic City, and the player can freely roam around the city to find races or customize their car.
The game offers a wide range of race types, including circuit races, drag races, sprint races, and drift races. Each type of race requires different driving skills, and players need to customize their cars accordingly to perform well in each race.
Car Customization
One of the most significant features of Need for Speed: Underground is the car customization system. Players can modify almost every aspect of their car, including the body kit, paint job, wheels, performance parts, and even the neon lights. The customization options are extensive, and players can create a unique car that reflects their personal style.
The car customization system in Need for Speed: Underground was
ahead of its time. It allowed players to create cars that were unique and
reflective of their personal tastes. The system also allowed players to tweak
their cars' performance, making it easier to win races and challenges.
Graphics and Sound
Need for Speed: Underground was one of the first racing games to feature realistic graphics and sound. The game's graphics were impressive for its time, featuring highly detailed car models and environments. The game also featured dynamic lighting, which made the cars and environments look even more realistic.
The game's sound was also exceptional, featuring a great
soundtrack that included songs from artists like Lil Jon & The East Side
Boyz, Mystikal, and Rob Zombie. The sound effects were also excellent, with the
cars sounding powerful and realistic.
Legacy
Need for Speed: Underground was a massive success for the Need for Speed franchise, selling over 15 million copies worldwide. The game's success led to the release of several sequels, including Need for Speed: Underground 2, Need for Speed: Most Wanted, and Need for Speed: Carbon.
The game's influence can still be felt in modern racing games. The
car customization system in Need for Speed: Underground inspired other racing
games to include similar features, such as Forza Horizon and The Crew. The game
also helped popularize the import tuner culture, which has had a lasting impact
on the car enthusiast community.
Conclusion
Need for Speed: Underground is a classic racing game that defined an era. The game's focus on illegal street racing and car customization was ahead of its time, and it inspired other racing games to follow suit. The game's graphics and sound were exceptional for its time, and its legacy can still be felt in modern racing games. If you have never played Need for Speed: Underground, then you are missing out on one of the best racing games of all time.
