A newNeed for Speed Unboundtrailer shows off gameplay of the Speed Race game mode. This mode is what most fans of the series would be most accustomed to, but with the added spectacle ofNeed for Speed Unbound’s betting and wager system and unique visuals.
Need for Speed Unboundis balancing on a thin line in its efforts to bring the series back to the level of acclaim it once had. Many of the gameplay trailers already revealed show that the series wants to harken back to the 2000s games with its scenery, but the unique art style of its characters, their customizable fashion choices, andspecial effects bringNeed for Speed Unboundinto a modern era. The calling card of the series though has been its sprint races which are called Speed Race.
Speed Races inNeed for Speed Unboundstart at set places. As illegal street racing events, the meet-up spots are hidden away at secret garages and other places hidden from those outside that circle and out of sight of the cops. The start of races inNeed for Speed Unboundwill have time for NPCs and the player character to show off their car customizationsat the meet-up spot. At the start line, players may also have quirky interactions as the camera zooms by them and other races before the start.
Before the races even begin, players will select from a variety of circuits and must buy into the event. The buy-in price scales with the Heat level, which may point to the race’s difficulty and the likelihood toencounter the police inNeed for Speed Unbound. Players can also make Side Bets against one of the other racers if they feel confident in their car and their skills. The amount of money the player will put into the Side Bet will also depend on the skill rank of the drivers in the field.
Fans have now seenNeed for Speed Unbound’s Takeover Event, Speed Race, police chase gameplay, and many elements of customization. There was also a glimpse into other game modes during the event select menu: Endurance, Drift Event, and Street Race. With the release date soon coming, the Speed Race trailer may be one of the last gameplayNeed for Speed Unboundtrailers players get before its release. There are many tricks and surprises that the game may have to offer fans, especially how far the game’s microtransaction monetization pushed the redline.
Need for Speed Unboundreleases on July 24, 2025, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.