Need for Speed Rivals

File:NFSRivals2013 gameplay.jpg

Need for Speed Rivals is a racing game and features gameplay similar to earlier Need for Speed titles, such as Criterion's Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit.{{cite web |last=Robinson |first=Martin |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-05-23-how-far-cry-3-and-uk-racing-veterans-are-helping-bring-need-for-speed-to-the-next-generation |title=How Far Cry 3 and UK racing veterans are helping bring Need for Speed to the next generation |work=Eurogamer.net |date=15 May 2013 |access-date=23 May 2013 |archive-date=15 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201215002316/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-05-23-how-far-cry-3-and-uk-racing-veterans-are-helping-bring-need-for-speed-to-the-next-generation |url-status=live }}

Rivals uses the Frostbite 3 engine.{{cite web |date=24 May 2013 |title=Next-Gen Racing |url=http://www.needforspeed.com/rivals#next-gen-racing |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524125434/http://www.needforspeed.com/rivals#next-gen-racing |archive-date=24 May 2013 |access-date=24 May 2013 |publisher=Need for Speed}} The development team opted to target 30 FPS across all platforms instead of 60 FPS, because of the AllDrive feature.

AllDrive is the system used to seamlessly matchmake players within the same open world. Another reason was due to the number of players able to be in the same world at the same time.{{cite web |last=Yin |first=Wesley |date=23 August 2013 |title=Why Need for Speed: Rivals runs at 30 frames per second |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-08-23-why-need-for-speed-rivals-runs-at-30-frames-per-second |access-date=26 November 2013 |work=Eurogamer |archive-date=1 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001110707/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-08-23-why-need-for-speed-rivals-runs-at-30-frames-per-second |url-status=live }}

Rivals is the first cross-platform next-gen game to achieve a native 1080p across both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.{{cite web |last=Robinson |first=Martin |date=13 November 2013 |title=Need for Speed Rivals runs at 1080p on Xbox One and PS4 |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-11-13-need-for-speed-rivals-runs-at-1080p-on-xbox-one-and-ps4 |access-date=26 November 2013 |work=Eurogamer |archive-date=19 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151019081931/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-11-13-need-for-speed-rivals-runs-at-1080p-on-xbox-one-and-ps4 |url-status=live }} Talk of resolutions and frame rates became a major point of contention between Sony and Microsoft's new consoles after it emerged that both Call of Duty: Ghosts and Battlefield 4 run at a higher resolution on Sony's PS4 console as compared to Microsoft's Xbox One.{{cite web |date=13 November 2013 |title=News: Need for Speed Rivals hits native 1080p on Xbox One and PS4 |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/438105/need-for-speed-rivals-hits-native-1080p-on-xbox-one-and-ps4/ |access-date=26 November 2013 |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |archive-date=21 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121023749/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/438105/need-for-speed-rivals-hits-native-1080p-on-xbox-one-and-ps4/ |url-status=live }}

After completing the prologue (tutorial), players choose a faction—Cop or Racer—to start their own tasks. Players can switch between factions at a hideout (Racer) or a command post (Cop). Cops can choose from the three car specifications: Patrol, Undercover, and Enforcer.

Most of the story takes place through cutscenes, with the chosen character voicing their opinions of current events in the game. Story progression is made through completing speedlists as a racer, or assignments as a cop.

Rivals features a career progression system for both Cop and Racer.{{cite web|first=Chris|last=Scullion|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/425553/need-for-speed-rivals-trailer-shows-undercover-cop-mode/|title=Need For Speed Rivals trailer shows undercover cop mode|publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com|date=20 August 2013|access-date=8 May 2014|archive-date=23 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131223114713/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/425553/need-for-speed-rivals-trailer-shows-undercover-cop-mode/|url-status=live}} Progression is made by means of Speedlists for Racer and Assignments for Cop, which are sets of objectives which involve dangerous driving, maneuvers, and race standings. Upon completion of each set of objectives, the player levels up and unlocks new content, and is presented with another set of objectives to choose from.

Similar to the 2010 Hot Pursuit, players can use weapons, referred to as Pursuit Tech, to attack other players or AI cars, or otherwise defend themselves. Players can equip from two of each side's six available weapons, each of which can be enhanced, although upgrades are limited to a certain level based on the max level of the car's Pursuit Tech. Besides electrostatic field and EMP (electromagnetic pulse), which are the only weapons available to both factions, Cops can deploy shock rams, assemble roadblocks, request helicopter support, or drop spike strips, while Racers can deploy radar jammers, trigger shockwaves, drop stun mines, or activate turbo boosts.

The Autolog system, a competition-between-friends system developed by Criterion for Hot Pursuit, records the player's completion time for each event, Speedlist or Assignment. These times are posted to Speed Walls for local and global leaderboards to be compared to other players' times.{{cite web |last=Yin |first=Wesley |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-08-20-need-for-speed-rivals-progression-system-means-youll-never-play-the-same-career-twice |title=Need for Speed: Rivals career "can't be played the same way twice" |work=Eurogamer |date=20 August 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=24 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131124015150/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-08-20-need-for-speed-rivals-progression-system-means-youll-never-play-the-same-career-twice |url-status=live }}

Rivals features a new social system called the AllDrive, which allows players to transition from playing alone to playing with others, described as "destroying the line between single player and multiplayer". This allows players to engage in both cooperative and competitive gameplay. The game also features a dynamic weather system, which makes "the world feel alive in a much bigger sense than any other Need for Speed game".

Rivals also takes on some gameplay features of earlier Underground titles in the franchise with cues on aesthetic vehicle personalization, such as paint jobs, decals, rims and license plates and liveries can be modified, as well as vehicle performance, and various 'Pursuit Tech' gadgets.{{cite web |date=14 November 2012 |title=How Ghost Games hopes to put itself on the map with Need for Speed Rivals |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/5/23/4356942/need-for-speed-rivals-customization-alldrive-cars-interview-ghost-games |access-date=23 May 2013 |publisher=Polygon |archive-date=6 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806221900/https://www.polygon.com/2013/5/23/4356942/need-for-speed-rivals-customization-alldrive-cars-interview-ghost-games |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://news.softpedia.com/news/Need-for-Speed-Rivals-Customization-Gets-Thorough-Explanation-386205.shtml |title=Need for Speed: Rivals Customization Gets Thorough Explanation |publisher=Softpedia |date=25 September 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=2 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202233434/http://news.softpedia.com/news/Need-for-Speed-Rivals-Customization-Gets-Thorough-Explanation-386205.shtml |url-status=live }} With the exception for the Aston Martin Vanquish (and most DLC cars), all cars in the game are only available to either the Racers or the Cops.{{cite web |url=http://www.needforspeed.com/news/vote-and-decide-which-car-will-play-both-sides-law |title=Vote and Decide which Car will Play Both Sides of the Law |publisher=Need for Speed |date=25 May 2013 |access-date=9 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607071718/http://www.needforspeed.com/news/vote-and-decide-which-car-will-play-both-sides-law |archive-date=7 June 2013 |url-status=dead}}

Need for Speed Rivals takes place in the fictional Redview County.{{cite web |date=9 October 2013 |title=Need for Speed: Rivals progression system detailed by Ghost Games |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/09/need-for-speed-rivals-progression-system-detailed-by-ghost-games/ |access-date=26 November 2013 |publisher=VG247 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203073434/http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/09/need-for-speed-rivals-progression-system-detailed-by-ghost-games/ |url-status=live }} The open world environment features a similar set-up to Most Wanted, with several jumps, speed traps, and unlockable cars, as well as shortcuts that are not shown on the map.{{cite web |date=9 October 2013 |title=Need For Speed: Rivals Progression System Detailed |url=http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Need-Speed-Rivals-Progression-System-Detailed-59729.html |access-date=26 November 2013 |publisher=CinemaBlend |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203071432/http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Need-Speed-Rivals-Progression-System-Detailed-59729.html |url-status=live }}

The map's design took heavy inspiration from the landscapes of the Western United States, with the setting's open world map consisting of over {{convert|100|miles|km}} of road. The northern part of the map takes inspiration from Californian coastline towns like Santa Monica, the eastern part consists of woods similar to the redwood forests of northern California and snowy mountainside based on the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, the southern part is a rocky desert based on the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and the western and central parts are based on contemporary rural America.

The player can choose to play as either a racer or a cop. In the Racer story, the player assumes the role of a street racer known as Zephyr. In the Cop story, the player takes on the role of an unnamed, newly initiated police officer. As the player completes the objectives on the Speedlists or Assignments, story cutscenes are revealed, each of which appears to be connected with the other.

In an attempt to make himself known to the public, street racer Zephyr uploads a video of him outrunning the police along the streets of Redview County. Within a few days, other racers begin replicating what Zephyr did in the video. As a result, the racers have become more public in their criminal acts and increasingly more dangerous, committing more acts of damage to property as they speed through the streets. The Redview County Police Department responds by increasing their punitive measures in an attempt to bring the racers to justice, resulting in public backlash. Later on, an RCPD officer named John McManis is injured while attempting to keep up with the racers. Public outcry swings back in support of the police, leading the rookie officer to swear revenge on the racers.

However, further increase in police intimidation and accusations of 'excessive force' leads to all RCPD officers being placed under probationary suspension, while the Federal Bureau of Investigation sends in the Vehicle Response Team to take the police's place. Realizing the new threat, Zephyr begins taking on the VRT as he continues to defy the authorities. Angered by Zephyr's recklessness and a lack of response to his actions, the cop decides to go rogue as a vigilante under the name F-8 (alternatively pronounced fate), taking an impounded Ferrari Enzo out to the streets, where he wreaks havoc by taking down street racers under the guise of a fellow racer. This causes the FBI to take an interest in F-8, sending him an invitation to join the VRT. Knowing this, F-8 immediately gives up his vigilante persona and accepts the invitation. At the same time, all police units have been called back on active duty.

Zephyr eventually discovers who F-8 really is and decides to retaliate, stealing a decommissioned Koenigsegg Agera police car and respraying it in his style. He then uses the car to attract police attention and wreck police units coming after him. Later on, the RCPD has been cleared of all accusations against its officers, causing public outrage as the VRT stays in Redview County. The subsequent increase in police activity and discontent over the violent arrests of street racers leads Zephyr to release a public message to the RCPD, demanding that they stop their brutality. He then issues an open challenge to both the racers and the cops, a race around Redview County, so that the two sides of the law could resolve their differences once and for all. Meanwhile, F-8, now a top officer at the VRT, is tasked with locating Zephyr and taking him down, being the only one able to do so. He eventually succeeds in intercepting Zephyr's radio communications. Upon learning of Zephyr's message, F-8 sets out to stop the infamous street racer for good.

There are two endings, one for the Racer story and two for the Cop story. As with all preceding story cutscenes, these endings are connected to each other, with the cop ending being both concurrent and subsequent to the racer ending.

At the end of the Racer story, right after he completes the decisive race, Zephyr runs into a police blockade, causing him to crash violently. A subsequent news report shows Zephyr's car smoking heavily, suggesting he has been killed in the crash. However, Zephyr is revealed to have survived the crash. While barely awake, he starts up his badly damaged car, with the screen fading to black as the engine roars.

At the end of the Cop story, it was revealed that F-8 was involved in a collision with Zephyr, likely shortly before Zephyr's own collision with the police blockade, and wrecks his car in the ensuing crash, leaving him in critical condition. A following news report also reveals that F-8 has been terminated from the RCPD due to reckless actions leading up to the crash. Following the events, F-8 seems to have taken over Zephyr's mantle and issues a challenge to all Redview County racers in a video, declaring himself their rival.

After the commercial and critical success of 2010's Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit,{{cite web |url=http://seekingalpha.com/article/267901-electronic-arts-ceo-discusses-q4-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript |title=Electronic Arts' CEO Discusses Q4 2011 Results - Earnings Call Transcript |publisher=Seeking Alpha |date=5 May 2011 |access-date=7 May 2011 |archive-date=8 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110508125815/http://seekingalpha.com/article/267901-electronic-arts-ceo-discusses-q4-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript |url-status=live }} Criterion Games executives stated that they wanted to draw from the series' roots and re-introduce old Need for Speed ideals.

However, in 2011, EA Black Box released Need for Speed: The Run, which received mixed reviews.{{cite web |author=munkee |url=http://www.videogamer.com/ps3/nfs_the_run/review.html |title=Need for Speed The Run Review for PS3 |work=VideoGamer.com |date=15 November 2011 |access-date=26 June 2012 |archive-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307115217/http://www.videogamer.com/ps3/nfs_the_run/review.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Bramwell |first=Tom |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-11-14-need-for-speed-the-run-review |title=Need for Speed: The Run Review |work=Eurogamer.net |date=14 November 2011 |access-date=26 June 2012 |archive-date=7 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191007142823/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-11-14-need-for-speed-the-run-review |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/need-for-speed-the-run/reviews/need-for-speed-the-run-review-6346231/|title=Need for Speed: The Run Review|last=Petit|first=Carolyn|work=GameSpot|date=16 November 2011|access-date=26 September 2013|archive-date=10 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130910210724/http://www.gamespot.com/need-for-speed-the-run/reviews/need-for-speed-the-run-review-6346231/|url-status=live}}{{Synthesis inline|date=May 2013}}

In 2012, EA Labels president Frank Gibeau said that although he was proud of the Black Box-developed installment, "he didn't want a 60, I want an 80+".{{cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/353808/ea-nfs-the-run-didnt-come-together-but-most-wanted-will-dial-it-up/ |title=News: EA: NFS The Run 'didn't come together' but Most Wanted will 'dial it up' |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |date=15 June 2012 |access-date=26 June 2012 |archive-date=18 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618042213/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/353808/ea-nfs-the-run-didnt-come-together-but-most-wanted-will-dial-it-up/ |url-status=live }} On the subject of EA Black Box, Gibeau said the publisher would not be changing its alternating studio strategy.

At Electronic Entertainment Expo 2012, Criterion vice president Alex Ward announced that the days of random developers churning out yearly Need for Speed installments were over. Ward would not confirm that all Need for Speed titles for the future would be developed wholly by Criterion, but did say that the studio would have "strong involvement" in them.{{cite web |last=Yin |first=Wesley |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-06-25-criterion-takes-full-control-of-need-for-speed-and-burnout-franchises |title=Criterion takes full control of Need for Speed and Burnout franchises |department=News |work=Eurogamer.net |date=25 June 2012 |access-date=26 June 2012 |archive-date=21 February 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130221121115/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-06-25-criterion-takes-full-control-of-need-for-speed-and-burnout-franchises |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Jackson |first=Mike |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/355125/criterion-in-control-of-entire-need-for-speed-franchise/ |title=News: Criterion in control of entire Need for Speed franchise |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |date=22 June 2012 |access-date=26 June 2012 |archive-date=26 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120626023654/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/355125/criterion-in-control-of-entire-need-for-speed-franchise/ |url-status=live }}

With EA Canada and Black Box restructured and refocused towards online and free-to-play games in February 2012,{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/334628/ea-confirms-vancouver-studio-layoffs/|title=EA confirms Vancouver studio layoffs|last=Robinson|first=Andy|publisher=Computer and Video Games|date=6 February 2012|access-date=26 January 2013|archive-date=14 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141214204336/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/334628/ea-confirms-vancouver-studio-layoffs/|url-status=live}} EA had already formed a new studio in 2011, EA Gothenburg. Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, it was reported that the studio would focus on development games using the Frostbite game engine.{{cite web |title=What We Do – EA Gothenburg |url=http://eagothenburg.ea.com/what-we-do/ |publisher=EA Gothenburg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012015631/http://eagothenburg.ea.com/what-we-do/ |archive-date=12 October 2012 |access-date=11 November 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2012/03/05/ea-gothenburg-studio-to-focus-on-frostbite-development/ |title=EA Gothenburg studio to focus on Frostbite development |publisher=VG247 |date=5 March 2012 |access-date=17 November 2012 |archive-date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804033058/https://www.vg247.com/2012/03/05/ea-gothenburg-studio-to-focus-on-frostbite-development/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=EA Gothenburg hiring for new Need for Speed |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/372103/ea-gothenburg-hiring-for-new-need-for-speed |publisher=CVG |access-date=15 November 2012 |archive-date=11 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211104049/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/372103/ea-gothenburg-hiring-for-new-need-for-speed/ |url-status=live }} Also reported was that the studio was developing a game "in the Need For Speed franchise".{{cite web |url=http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/need_for_speed_most_wanted_2012/news/confirmed_ea_gothenburg_developing_unannounced_need_for_speed.html |title=Confirmed: EA Gothenburg developing unannounced Need For Speed |work=Videogamer.com |date=8 October 2012 |access-date=17 November 2012 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304193156/http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/need_for_speed_most_wanted_2012/news/confirmed_ea_gothenburg_developing_unannounced_need_for_speed.html |url-status=live }}

According to the CVs of employees, much of the studio's staff had worked previously on major racing titles, including Forza Horizon, Need for Speed: The Run, Project Gotham Racing and Race Pro.

On October 22, 2012, the series main developer Criterion Games confirmed that EA Gothenburg was working on a title in the Need for Speed franchise, but did not reveal the level of involvement or when the title would be released.{{cite web |title=Criterion confirms EA Gothenburg is working on Need For Speed |url=http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/need_for_speed_most_wanted_2012/news/criterion_confirms_ea_gothenburg_is_working_on_need_for_speed.html |date=22 October 2012 |author=David Scammel |work=Videogamer.com |access-date=11 November 2012 |archive-date=7 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407070748/http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/need_for_speed_most_wanted_2012/news/criterion_confirms_ea_gothenburg_is_working_on_need_for_speed.html |url-status=live }}

On November 15, 2012, EA Gothenburg was rebranded as Ghost Games. Ghost's website went live around the same time and called for potential staff to apply for a range of open positions.{{cite web |last=Yin |first=Wesley |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-11-15-ea-gothenberg-is-now-ghost-working-on-need-for-speed |title=EA Gothenburg is now Ghost, working on Need for Speed |work=Eurogamer.net |date=15 November 2012 |access-date=17 November 2012 |archive-date=16 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121116200940/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-11-15-ea-gothenberg-is-now-ghost-working-on-need-for-speed |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/14/ghost-eas-gothenburg-studio-hiring-for-frostbite-2-game-development/ |title=Ghost – EA's Gothenburg studio hiring for Frostbite 2 game development |publisher=VG247 |date=28 January 2008 |access-date=17 November 2012 |archive-date=19 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119031349/http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/14/ghost-eas-gothenburg-studio-hiring-for-frostbite-2-game-development/ |url-status=live }}

On May 23, 2013, EA confirmed their next Need for Speed game, Rivals, with a teaser trailer,{{cite web |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408626/need-for-speed-rivals-announced-for-current-and-next-gen/ |title=News: Need for Speed Rivals announced for current and next-gen |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |access-date=23 May 2013 |archive-date=7 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607183045/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408626/need-for-speed-rivals-announced-for-current-and-next-gen/ |url-status=live }} following marketing material tease days before.{{cite web |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408289/new-need-for-speed-game-teased-with-screenshot/ |title=News: New Need for Speed game teased with screenshot |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |access-date=23 May 2013 |archive-date=21 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221101053/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408289/new-need-for-speed-game-teased-with-screenshot/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408430/need-for-speed-reveal-teased-for-today/ |title=News: Need for Speed reveal teased for today |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |access-date=23 May 2013 |archive-date=21 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221101102/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408430/need-for-speed-reveal-teased-for-today/ |url-status=live }} It was also confirmed that Rivals was in the works at EA's Swedish games developer Ghost Games in partnership with Criterion Games.{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-announced-for-november-release-on-ps4-and-xbox-one/ |title=Need for Speed Rivals lands on PS4, Xbox One in November |publisher=VG247 |date=28 January 2008 |access-date=23 May 2013 |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112021020/https://www.vg247.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-announced-for-november-release-on-ps4-and-xbox-one/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/ |title=Need for Speed Rivals Speeds to Xbox One, PS4 and Current Gen This November |work=Joystiq |date=23 May 2013 |access-date=24 May 2013 |archive-date=7 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607151925/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november |url-status=live }} Ghost is headed up by former DICE executive producer Marcus Nilsson, who previously led development on games including Battlefield 2: Modern Combat, Battlefield 2142 and Shift 2: Unleashed.{{cite web |last=Ivan |first=Tom |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/378634/eas-new-gothenburg-studio-rebranded-as-ghost/ |title=EA's new Gothenburg studio rebranded as Ghost |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |access-date=17 November 2012 |archive-date=17 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117011342/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/378634/eas-new-gothenburg-studio-rebranded-as-ghost/ |url-status=live }}

The team asserted that while Rivals will be released on both current and next-gen systems, the versions would "ultimately be the same", aside from the graphics would look different, and next-gen would provide for more dynamic weather and gameplay.{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/07/31/need-for-speed-rivals-will-ultimately-be-the-same-on-current-and-next-gen/ |title=Need for Speed: Rivals will "ultimately be the same" on current and next-gen |publisher=VG247 |date=31 July 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=2 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202234838/http://www.vg247.com/2013/07/31/need-for-speed-rivals-will-ultimately-be-the-same-on-current-and-next-gen/ |url-status=live }}

On August 30, 2013, Ghost Games head Marcus Nilsson stated that the studio had been given complete charge of the Need for Speed franchise and that the franchise being bounced between multiple EA studios was not "consistent" with different game types.{{cite web |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/427030/ghost-games-takes-charge-of-the-need-for-speed-franchise/ |title=News: Ghost Games takes charge of the Need for Speed franchise |publisher=Computer and Video Games |date=30 August 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=2 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202233342/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/427030/ghost-games-takes-charge-of-the-need-for-speed-franchise/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/08/30/need-for-speed-franchise-now-owned-by-ghost-games-wont-bounce-back-to-criterion/ |title=Need for Speed franchise now 'owned' by Ghost Games, won't bounce back to Criterion |publisher=VG247 |date=30 August 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203175315/http://www.vg247.com/2013/08/30/need-for-speed-franchise-now-owned-by-ghost-games-wont-bounce-back-to-criterion/ |url-status=live }}

On September 16, 2013, Criterion Games had its staff numbers reduced to 17 people total, as the majority of the studio moved over to Ghost Games UK to work with Need for Speed games.{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/09/14/criterion-games-staff-reduced-to-17-as-60-65-people-move-over-to-ghost-games/ |title=Criterion Games staff reduced to 17 as 60-65 people move over to Ghost Games |publisher=VG247 |date=16 September 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=25 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325045937/https://www.vg247.com/2013/09/14/criterion-games-staff-reduced-to-17-as-60-65-people-move-over-to-ghost-games/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Scammell |first=David |url=http://www.videogamer.com/features/article/the_ghost_of_criterions_past_2.html |title=The Ghost of Criterion's Past |work=VideoGamer.com |date=18 October 2013 |access-date=8 May 2014 |archive-date=9 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140509001505/http://www.videogamer.com/features/article/the_ghost_of_criterions_past_2.html |url-status=live }} Due to this, what remained of Criterion Games began work on a project of their own.{{cite web|first=Rob|last=Crossley|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/429454/criterion-voluntarily-reduced-to-17-staff/|title=Criterion 'voluntarily' reduced to 17 staff|publisher=Computer and Video Games|access-date=26 November 2013|archive-date=2 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222033/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/429454/criterion-voluntarily-reduced-to-17-staff/|url-status=live}}

Because of the low sales of Most Wanted on the Wii U and PlayStation Vita, Rivals was not developed for those platforms.{{cite web |url=http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2013/10/18/weak-sales-reason-for-need-for-speed-rivals-skipping-wii-u-and-ps-vita/ |title=Weak Sales Reason For Need For Speed: Rivals Skipping Wii U And PS Vita |publisher=TheSixthAxis |date=18 October 2013 |access-date=29 December 2013 |archive-date=16 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210116150220/http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2013/10/18/weak-sales-reason-for-need-for-speed-rivals-skipping-wii-u-and-ps-vita/ |url-status=live }}

File:Need for Speed-Gamescom 2013.JPG 2013]]

Rivals was released for PlayStation 3, Windows, and Xbox 360 on November 19, 2013 in North America,{{cite web |last=Tach |first=Dave |date=4 November 2013 |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/11/4/5065188/need-for-speed-rivals-bumped-up-to-nov-15-release-for-ps4-launch |title=Need for Speed Rivals bumped up to Nov. 15 release for PS4 launch |publisher=Polygon |access-date=4 November 2013 |archive-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131117054458/http://www.polygon.com/2013/11/4/5065188/need-for-speed-rivals-bumped-up-to-nov-15-release-for-ps4-launch |url-status=live }} November 21 in Australia, and November 22 in Europe. The PlayStation 4 version was released in North America a few days earlier, on November 15, 2013, as a launch title for the system, and on November 29 in Europe. The Xbox One version was released worldwide on 22 November 2013.{{cite web |first=Mike |last=Jackson |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/413098/need-for-speed-rivals-aims-to-be-out-at-launch-on-ps4xbox-one/ |title=News: Need for Speed: Rivals aims to be 'out at launch' on PS4/Xbox One |publisher=ComputerAndVideoGames.com |date=12 June 2013 |access-date=11 July 2013 |archive-date=18 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130618192124/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/413098/need-for-speed-rivals-aims-to-be-out-at-launch-on-ps4xbox-one/ |url-status=live }}

On October 21, 2014, Need for Speed Rivals Complete Edition was released. It features all DLC packs (as well as all pre-order bonuses previously re-released in the "Fully Loaded Garage" DLC pack) along with the main game.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/need-for-speed-rivals-complete-edition-includes-si/1100-6422407/|title=Need for Speed Rivals Complete Edition Includes Six Expansions, Launching In October|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|date=18 September 2014|work=GameSpot|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=21 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021185503/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/need-for-speed-rivals-complete-edition-includes-si/1100-6422407/|url-status=live}}

{{Video game reviews

| MC = PC: 76/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/need-for-speed-rivals/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=Need for Speed: Rivals for PC Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=19 November 2013 |archive-date=2 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102033448/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/need-for-speed-rivals |url-status=live }}
PS3: 80/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/need-for-speed-rivals/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=Need for Speed: Rivals for PlayStation 3 Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=19 November 2013 |archive-date=12 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131112081004/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/need-for-speed-rivals |url-status=live }}
PS4: 80/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/need-for-speed-rivals/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4 |title=Need for Speed: Rivals for PlayStation 4 Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=19 November 2013 |archive-date=20 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131120214536/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/need-for-speed-rivals |url-status=live }}
X360: 76/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/need-for-speed-rivals/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=Need for Speed: Rivals for Xbox 360 Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=19 November 2013 |archive-date=29 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029140847/http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/need-for-speed-rivals |url-status=live }}
XONE: 75/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/need-for-speed-rivals/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-one |title=Need for Speed: Rivals for Xbox One Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=19 November 2013 |archive-date=14 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131114172317/http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-one/need-for-speed-rivals |url-status=live }}

| CVG = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/438835/reviews/review-need-for-speed-rivals-is-a-fine-debut-for-ghost-games-review/|title=Review: Need for Speed Rivals is a fine debut for Ghost Games|publisher=CVG|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=22 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122103613/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/438835/reviews/review-need-for-speed-rivals-is-a-fine-debut-for-ghost-games-review/|url-status=live}}

| Destruct = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/review-need-for-speed-rivals-265857.phtml|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: Crash, into me...|publisher=Destructoid|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=29 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140129190951/http://www.destructoid.com/review-need-for-speed-rivals-265857.phtml|url-status=live}}

| Edge = 7/10{{cite web|url=http://www.edge-online.com/review/need-for-speed-rivals-review/|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review|publisher=Edge Online|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=28 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140128150559/http://www.edge-online.com/review/need-for-speed-rivals-review/|url-status=live}}

| EuroG = 9/10{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-11-18-need-for-speed-rivals-review|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review|work=Eurogamer|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=18 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140118074617/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-11-18-need-for-speed-rivals-review|url-status=live}}

| GI = 9/10{{cite web|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/need_for_speed_rivals/b/playstation4/archive/2013/11/19/need-for-speed-rivals-review.aspx|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: Unexpected Mayhem|publisher=Game Informer|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=12 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112225531/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/need_for_speed_rivals/b/playstation4/archive/2013/11/19/need-for-speed-rivals-review.aspx|url-status=live}}

| GRadar = {{Rating|3.5|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/need-for-speed-rivals-review/|title=Need for Speed Rivals Review|publisher=GamesRadar|date=18 November 2013|access-date=24 January 2014|archive-date=22 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122091518/http://www.gamesradar.com/need-for-speed-rivals-review/|url-status=live}}

| GSpot = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-review/1900-6415555/|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: New life on the old roads.|work=Gamespot|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=23 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140123181800/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-review/1900-6415555/|url-status=live}}

| GT = 8.4/10{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/reviews/hfun5i/need-for-speed-rivals-review|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review|publisher=GameTrailers|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924051500/http://www.gametrailers.com/reviews/hfun5i/need-for-speed-rivals-review|url-status=live}}

| GameZone = 8.5/10{{cite web|url=http://www.gamezone.com/reviews/2013/11/18/need-for-speed-rivals-review-when-cars-sweat|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: When cars sweat|last=Splechta|first=Mike|publisher=GZ|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=27 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140127233310/http://www.gamezone.com/reviews/2013/11/18/need-for-speed-rivals-review-when-cars-sweat|url-status=live}}

| GB = {{Rating|3|5}}{{cite web |last=Gerstmann |first=Jeff |url=http://www.giantbomb.com/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-review/1900-613/ |title=Need for Speed Rivals Review |work=Giant Bomb |date=24 November 2013 |access-date=24 January 2014 |archive-date=25 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140125092539/http://www.giantbomb.com/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-review/1900-613/ |url-status=live }}

| IGN = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/11/20/need-for-speed-rivals-review|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: The long and winding road|work=IGN|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=21 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140121124803/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/11/20/need-for-speed-rivals-review|url-status=live}}

| OXM = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.totalxbox.com/66994/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-xbox-one-review/|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Xbox One Ghost Games gets off to a turbo-powered start|publisher=Official Xbox Magazine|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=29 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140129002357/http://www.totalxbox.com/66994/reviews/need-for-speed-rivals-xbox-one-review/|url-status=live}}

| Poly = 8.5/10{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/11/18/5116316/need-for-speed-rivals-review|title=Need for Speed: Rivals Review: Public enemy|publisher=Polygon|date=18 November 2013|access-date=28 January 2014|archive-date=22 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122080221/http://www.polygon.com/2013/11/18/5116316/need-for-speed-rivals-review|url-status=live}}

}}

Need for Speed Rivals was well received by critics at E3 2013 and was awarded with "Best Racing Game" from Game Critics Awards.{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/07/02/titanfall-sweeps-the-e3-2013-game-critic-awards/ |title=Titanfall sweeps the E3 2013 Game Critic Awards |publisher=VG247 |date=3 July 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203195239/http://www.vg247.com/2013/07/02/titanfall-sweeps-the-e3-2013-game-critic-awards/ |url-status=live }} Previewers who had access to Rivals called the game a spiritual successor to 1999's Need for Speed: High Stakes, citing similar gameplay style.{{cite web |url=http://www.egmnow.com/01maincategory/previews/e3-2013-need-for-speed-rivals/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131108030347/http://www.egmnow.com/01maincategory/previews/e3-2013-need-for-speed-rivals/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 November 2013 |title=E3 2013: Need for Speed Rivals |publisher=EGMNOW |access-date=26 November 2013 }} Others called it an improved version of Criterion's Hot Pursuit, citing similar gameplay mechanics.{{cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/18/need-for-speed-rivals-get-your-motor-running/ |title=Need for Speed: Rivals – get your motor running |publisher=VG247 |date=18 October 2013 |access-date=26 November 2013 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203051943/http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/18/need-for-speed-rivals-get-your-motor-running/ |url-status=live }}

Need for Speed Rivals received mostly positive reviews upon release. Aggregate review website Metacritic gave the PlayStation 4 version 80/100, the Xbox One version 75/100, the PlayStation 3 version 80/100, the Windows version 76/100, and the Xbox 360 version 76/100.

During the 17th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated Need for Speed Rivals for "Racing Game of the Year".{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/awards/award_category_details.asp?idAward=2014&idGameAwardType=120 |title=2014 Awards Category Details Racing Game of the Year |publisher=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences |website=interactive.org |access-date=28 November 2023}}

Steve Hannley of Hardcore Gamer gave the game a 4.5/5, saying "It’s raw, visceral, intense and boasts a ton of replay value thanks to over one hundred events and seamless online multiplayer."{{cite web |last=Hannley |first=Steve |url=http://www.hardcoregamer.com/2013/11/16/review-need-for-speed-rivals-ps4/62652/ |title=Review: Need for Speed Rivals |publisher=Hardcore Gamer |date=16 November 2013 |access-date=16 November 2013 |archive-date=18 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131118061050/http://www.hardcoregamer.com/2013/11/16/review-need-for-speed-rivals-ps4/62652/ |url-status=live }} Jeff Gerstmann from Giant Bomb gave the game a 3/5, praising the game's gameplay and soundtrack but criticized the lack of amount players allowed on the online multiplayer. Gerstmann also noted that the PC version was locked at 30 frames-per-second and stated that "is especially ridiculous", but still considered the PC version the best looking version. GameZone{{'s}} Mike Splechta gave the PS4 version an 8.5/10, stating "For a game that touts speed in its name, Need for Speed: Rivals delivers on every front. It's gorgeous, fast and definitely furious." Daniel Krupa for IGN scored the game an 8.0 and stated: "Fast, furious, and fun. NFS: Rivals blends Hot Pursuit and Most Wanted to great effect." Philip Kollar of Polygon gave the game an 8.5 out of 10, writing: "Need for Speed Rivals{{'}} technical shortcomings are frustrating primarily because almost everything else about the game is so well-designed and impressive. It builds on the series' legacy but also stretches into meaningful new directions. It may hit a few bumps, but if this is what Ghost Games can pull off in their first release and the first next-gen Need for Speed, the future is bright for this franchise." Andrew Reiner of Game Informer gave high praise to the online multiplayer interactivity, stressing that the online features create an experience unlike any other. Reiner also called the game's visuals "drop dead gorgeous", and complimented the playability for making the game feel "silky smooth". Reiner gave the game a 9/10 and had minor criticisms. Nick Pino from GamesRadar also praised the visuals and controls, calling them "absolutely gorgeous" and "slick" respectively. Pino was critical of the car customization and damage, but commended the game world for feeling alive. Eurogamer's Martin Robinson gave the game a 9/10 and called it "fantastic". He spoke well of the overall action gameplay, the points system, the sound design of the cars, the visuals, and the world design. Robinson's main criticisms were concerning the "obnoxious" soundtrack, the inability to pause the game, the world size, and the vehicle takedown systems.

Negative reception centered around the many bugs and glitches in the game, and frustrations around the game's lack of dedicated servers, triggering frequent host migration. There were also many clashing game features which caused frustrations for players, such as cops chasing players for no reason at all and the inability to pause the game at any time. Ghost Games also removed the ability to change from automatic to manual transmission.{{cite web |url=http://www.videogamer.com/ps4/need_for_speed_rivals/features/article/need_for_speeds_alldrive_isnt_all_that.html |title=Need For Speed's AllDrive isn't all that |work=VideoGamer.com |date=25 November 2013 |access-date=5 February 2014 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060506/http://www.videogamer.com/ps4/need_for_speed_rivals/features/article/need_for_speeds_alldrive_isnt_all_that.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.quartertothree.com/fp/2013/11/26/need-speed-rivals-wanted/ |title=Need for Speed Rivals not so wanted |publisher=Quarter to Three |date=26 November 2013 |access-date=5 February 2014 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203230705/http://www.quartertothree.com/fp/2013/11/26/need-speed-rivals-wanted/ |url-status=live }}

{{clear}}

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{Official website|https://www.ea.com/games/need-for-speed/need-for-speed-rivals}}
• {{moby game|/need-for-speed-rivals}}
• {{IMDb title}}

{{Need for Speed}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:2013 video games

Category:Electronic Arts games

Category:Frostbite (game engine) games

Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games

* 20

Category:Open-world video games

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Category:PlayStation 4 games

Category:Video games about police officers

Category:Video games developed in Sweden

Category:Video games developed in the United Kingdom

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Category:Video games set in the United States

Category:EA Gothenburg games