STAR RATINGS EXPLAINED

Classic

Excellent

Good

Fair

Tragic

Packshot

Game Details

Released 02 November 2006

Format PS2, XBox, GameCube, PC, Xbox 360

Developer EA

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Need For Speed: Carbon

Review
In the lazy, predictable world of gaming sequels, innovation is something to be cherished. But while the latest Need For Speed works hard to evolve the basics of this million-selling series, the new features only serve to water-down its outrageous city scrambles.

Unlike previous NFSs, Carbon allows players to call on members of an illicit racing posse for help as they rocket around the urban courses, your crew including ‘blockers’ who hinder your rivals, ‘drifters’ that help you to pull off speed boosts, and ‘scouts’ who spot hidden short-cuts. However, while extending the experience beyond your own motor is great in theory, the blockers make for chaotic, often unplayable races, the drifters are impossible to use on the twisting courses, and the scouts only ruin the smug sense of achievement when discovering a sneaky route for yourself.

The cop-baiting of NFS: Most Wanted has also been played-down, the developers inexplicably removing the feature that made the last installment such a thrilling ride. And while the out-of-town canyon races add variety to the mix, the fact you can drive off the edge of cliffs to certain death doesn’t sit well with the rest of the game’s flat urban courses.

Carbon’s dramatic sense of speed, licensed cars and slick graphics (especially in the Xbox 360 version) are still worth a punt if you’re unfamiliar with NFS, but anyone addicted to the series will be frustrated by the unwarranted extras.



Reviewer: David McComb

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Average user rating for Need For Speed: Carbon

RE: Need For Speed: Carbon

The real charm here is the inclusion of old muscle cars. The Camaro, Chevelle and Cuda are simply awesome! ... Read More

Metalion About me

11:54, 15 January 2008 | Report This Post

RE: Need For Speed: Carbon

I enjoy playing this game! Graphics are good! ... Read More

Topher182 About me

00:11, 11 October 2007 | Report This Post

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