NEED for Speed Unbound released yesterday (December 2), and there was a shocking short time between official announcement and release.

Less than three months in fact, which was apparently a choice made by marketing, to help release pressure from over-hyped releases. 

It comes with a new cel-shaded style, though this is apparently the only part of the new Need for Speed that is rooted in fantasy.

We spoke to the game’s creative director, Kieran Crimmins, about the game, and how the decisions behind the changes came about.

He says: “It’s a completely reworked handling model and physics system”.

The cars now drive completely differently, on a new game engine made specifically for the latest generation of consoles.

However, Crimmins assures us: “We’re well known for our arcade racing sensibilities so when you play it, it should feel the same.

“But also the depth and the mastery you can achieve with the physics calculation that we’ve completely upgraded.”

The series has long had its roots in street racing culture, which has long been glamorized by movies like The Fast and the Furious.

While Unbound will be “Very loosely based on reality, but not completely uninformed by it,” there is definitely a change from the fantasy the series is known for.

Speaking in more detail, he says: “Need for Speed fits in a funny space in that sense, I believe the best Need For Speed games were heavily based in a kind of street…