Forza Hits PS5: Is It Time for Need for Speed to Make a Comeback?

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As a gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that the “Forza” series is undeniably one of the top racing franchises gracing our screens today. Split into two subseries – “Forza Motorsport” and “Forza Horizon,” this franchise has an abundance of thrilling experiences for racing game aficionados like myself. Not to mention, it stands tall among other non-racing series such as the legendary “Halo” and “Gears of War.” Over the years, it’s become a cornerstone for Microsoft and their Xbox platform, maintaining its popularity since its debut in 2005, making it a game that continues to be highly sought after.

More recently, Microsoft disclosed that the latest installment in the series, Forza Horizon 5, will be available on rival console, the PlayStation 5. This move signals a shift in strategy for Microsoft within the Xbox universe, as earlier Xbox games have appeared on PlayStation and Nintendo systems, but this is the first time a flagship IP from the publisher has shown signs of crossing over to competing platforms. The introduction of Forza on PlayStation might encourage another racing game franchise, specifically Need For Speed, to produce a fresh addition.

Forza’s Move To PlayStation Should Be The Return Of Need for Speed Too

With Forza On PlayStation, Need For Speed Should Race Back

Since Forza is now available on PlayStation, it’s high time for the Need for Speed series to come up with a fresh installment. As one of the most well-known series in its category, Need for Speed marked its 30th anniversary last year, but there were no significant updates in 2024. Despite enjoying both critical acclaim and commercial success, the franchise has been handled by multiple developers over the years, which may have led to a less favorable response to its more recent releases.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but express my excitement about the latest addition to the Need for Speed series, “Unbound.” It’s been handed back to the talented hands of Criterion Games, marking a significant step towards rejuvenating the franchise. However, compared to 2019’s “Need for Speed Heat,” sales figures have dipped by a considerable 64%.

Despite this slight setback, Criterion has been immersed in an upcoming “Battlefield” project. But fear not, the publishers at EA have assured us that the Need for Speed franchise isn’t going anywhere! It’s only a matter of time before we see another high-octane installment.

In my opinion, it might be wise for EA to expedite the return of this iconic franchise. Here’s to hoping for faster gears and smoother rides ahead!

Need For Speed Would Distinguish Itself From Forza and Gran Turismo

Excitedly speaking as a racing game enthusiast, it’s thrilling to imagine a fresh installment of “Need for Speed” joining the ranks alongside “Forza” on the PlayStation platform. This union marks the first time that these two legendary racing franchises, along with the iconic “Gran Turismo,” will coexist on the same platform – the PlayStation 5. The release of a new “Need for Speed” game packed with all the exciting features would undeniably elevate the racing gaming experience on PlayStation to a whole new level.

A fresh addition to the gaming landscape could be the latest installment of the Need for Speed series, providing the PlayStation 5 with a distinct edge against popular racers like Forza and Gran Turismo. Known for their realistic gameplay, these competitors focus on authentic racing experiences. In contrast, Need for Speed emphasizes an arcade-style approach, with a primary focus on illicit street races. Offering a unique twist compared to the more subdued style of Microsoft and Sony’s racing games, it carves out its own niche in this genre.

As Forza makes its way to PlayStation, a new Need for Speed game would fit right alongside it.

Need For Speed’s Return May Take A Long Time

It seems that a new installment of “Need for Speed” might not be released for some time. Currently, developer Criterion Games is working on the next “Battlefield” game, where they are responsible for creating the single-player campaign. Therefore, if development on a brand-new “Need for Speed” title begins, fans may need to wait until the start of the next decade before they can get their hands on it.

Despite the arrival of Forza on PlayStation, Electronic Arts (EA) still has a golden opportunity to rekindle the popularity of Need for Speed. With Sony’s platform now hosting two renowned realistic racing game series, a fresh installment of Need for Speed could offer an arcade-style twist, thereby distinguishing itself from other racing games. It might take some time, but EA’s iconic franchise certainly deserves another shot at success with a new title.

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2025-02-12 03:47