The Need for Speed series has consistently managed to fulfill the adrenaline rush gamers are looking for. Electronic Arts’ latest incarnation of the Need for Speed series has become increasingly popular, as this game is expanding to nearly every gaming platform available. Although this game doesn’t necessarily scream portability, the thought of having a handheld version of Need for Speed Underground would be remarkable; in the event EA™ is able to pull off a smooth transition between systems. While this game may have previously been on other portable gaming systems (i.e. GameBoy Advance), the transition was obviously difficult, as the GBA version couldn't capture nearly as much action as the console version(s) did. Fortunately Need for Speed Underground makes its way onto Sony’s new revolutionary PSP™ system, and not only is this version comparable (if not superior) to the console version, but Need for Speed Underground: Rivals ups the anti, as new modes specifically designed for wireless multiplayer are thrown into the mix.

Features:

• 10 new visually detailed and distinct tracks designed specifically for the PlayStation Portable.
  
• 20 customizable tuner cars ranging from American Muscle cars to Japanese Customs.
  
• Wireless multiplayer (up to 4 players Wi-Fi Ad Hoc/Infrastructure).
  
• Eight single-player modes including Race Now, Quick-Play Battle, Rally Relay, Drag, Street Cross, Nitrous Run and Lap Knockout.
  
• EA™ Pocket TRAX music visualization player allows you to watch music videos and customize your play list.
  

Gameplay
What makes the Need for Speed Underground series so popular is this game’s widespread appeal to all types of gamers. Fans of the racing genre will enjoy the variety Need for Speed Underground has to offer. This game goes way beyond cumbersome circuit races, as Need for Speed’s urban-style racing events are aimed to provide a refreshing experience for all speed-heads alike. Although newcomers to the Need for Speed series may initially be intimidated by Need for Speed Underground‘s incredibly fast and uppity gameplay technicalities, fans of the console version will know what to expect when they embark on the series’ latest installment on the PSP.

Need for Speed Underground: Rivals doesn’t necessarily offer multiple “modes” as stated, but as an alternative it offers numerous race events that work in conjunction with this game’s overall conclusion. By playing through this game’s main race modes (i.e. Circuit race, and Quick-play battle), you’ll earn points after completion of each event. Conquering “boss” levels gives you an opportunity to earn more points in the event you win the said race, which will help you earn a sufficient amount of points to customize your vehicle’s appearance, improve your vehicle’s performance, and eventually acquire more vehicles altogether. While this game’s customization options may be similar to its console predecessor’s [modification options], Need for Speed Underground: Rivals lacks the depth the console version provides. The reason why this comment was affirmed is because this game’s console counterpart offers an endless amount of options to modify your vehicle from the beginning [of this game]. To the contrary, Rivals does not, which will force you to earn most of your customization options as you advance through this game, and the variety is limited when you get there. Alas, Rivals won’t disappoint you when it comes down to the aspect of modification. Although only a small number of modification options become available as you win individual races, it unquestionably adds to this game’s replay value, as unlocking new items can be thrilling.



While the point system in Rivals is virtually identical to the console version‘s [point system], you will not have to force yourself to play difficult levels to earn points, as Need for Speed Underground: Rivals gives you the option of which race type you would like to engage in. I found myself highly appreciative of this small feature, for the fact that I have more trouble with some race types as opposed to others (i.e. Drift races), which would then lead to frustration. Mercifully, selecting either “Circuit race” or “Quick-play battle” will direct you to race types of your choice.

Circuit races are more traditional, as you must compete in a series of races to triumph (including Need for Speed‘s infamous Lap-knockout along with a Rally Relay mode), while Quick-play battle offers the relatively ‘different’ type of race modes (i.e. Nitrous run, Drift attack, Drag race and Street cross). Although Need for Speed Underground may have descended from it’s console brethren, the similarities are still present with the exception of a few race types. For instance, the Drift attack race mode has dramatically changed, but not necessarily for the better. Instead of drifting around corners in a smaller track (as done in Need for Speed Underground’s first series installment), you will have to increase speed and drift entirely through the small area markers. The catch is that you must already be drifting before you hit the area marker. Although it may take time to properly perform this maneuver, it is very difficult to master. However, don’t let this little fact discourage you, for the fact that Need for Speed Underground: Rivals still remains true to its core gameplay roots.