Joe Wainer

Updated 10 months ago

Cops vs. racers in a high-speed open world

Need for Speed Rivals there are only two types of racers: the hunter and the hunted. On both sides of the law, the player can carve out an awesome career. Developed by Ghost Games, this racing game brings back the thrilling cops-versus-racers gameplay in an open-world setting.  

Need for Speed Rivals is set in Redview County, the game allows players to take on the roles of illegal street racers or law enforcement officers, each with distinct abilities, cars, and progression systems. With dynamic AI, seamless online integration, and intense chases, Rivals delivers adrenaline-fueled action

Action-packed racing on as cops and racers 

In Need for Speed Rivals players race in exotic racing machines, competing against one other in illegal street races, contests against the clock or escaping persistent police patrols. Racers aim to outrun the cops, earn Speed Points, and upgrade their cars, while cops must hunt them down using various gadgets like EMPs and roadblocks. Theb seamlessly blends single-player and multiplayer, allowing friends and rivals to drop into your game.  

The cops are certainly not harmless. They also have access to fleet patrol cars. In contrast to the racers, they don't have to buy new cars. They are immediately available as soon as the required rank is achieved. However, these cars can't be tuned. Cops win Speed Points by successful chases. Alternatively, they have to race against the clock to the target - and may not touch the road boundary, or ram other vehicles.   

Progression, customization, and controls 

Both racers and cops have separate progression trees, unlocking new cars, upgrades, and pursuit tech as they complete challenges. The customization options are decent but limited, focusing mainly on performance over visual modifications. While upgrading your vehicle adds depth, the rubberbanding AI and aggressive police presence can sometimes make progression feel unfair. However, there's a noticeable delay online which can be annoying as it results in unwanted interactions. 

Visually, this racing game is certainly not stripped bare. The cars are straight out of glossy brochures - until they're involved in collisions. The damage model shows significant injuries to the body. Redview County brings a good mix of mountainous sections, city, forest and desert-like areas. The change between day and night makes for excellent visual variety. Rivals' music and the robust sound effects are two more excellent touches. 

High-speed thrills with some frustrating roadblocks 

Need for Speed Rivals delivers exhilarating cops-versus-racers action in a stunning open world, offering intense chases, diverse environments, and seamless multiplayer integration. The separate progression systems for racers and cops add replayability, though the aggressive AI and occasional online lag can be frustrating. While customization is somewhat limited, the high-speed pursuits and dynamic weather effects create an immersive experience for racing fans. 

Joe Wainer

    Joe Wainer is a content writer with a strong interest in technology and software. He enjoys exploring new apps, games, and tools, translating his findings into reviews that are clear and accessible. His background also includes coding projects, adding practical insight to his evaluations.

    • Pros

      • Thrilling cops-versus-racers gameplay
      • Seamless online and offline integration
      • Stunning visuals with dynamic weather effects
      • Separate progression systems for racers and cops
    • Cons

      • Rubberbanding AI can feel unfair
      • Limited customization options
      • Online lag affects gameplay
      • Police presence can feel overly aggressive
     0/18

    App specs

    • License

      Full

    • Version

      varies-with-devices

    • Latest update

    • Platform

      Windows

      Other platforms (2)
    • OS

      Windows Vista

    • Language

      English

      Available languages

      • German
      • English
      • Spanish
      • French
      • Italian
      • Dutch
      • Portuguese
    • Downloads

      875.1K

      Last month's downloads

      • 950
    • Developer

    Also available in other platforms

    Program available in other languages



    User reviews about Need for Speed Rivals

    3.7

    4 reviews

    Add review

    Main reviews for you

    • Anonymous user

      I need it. its good i also love it so i need it if u wanna it i gonna rate it. Pros: the speedthe atmosphere Cons: nothingreal life

    • Anonymous user

      Need for speed is the best game I've ever played . Need for speed rivals is like the best game I've ever played it was a blast playing that game

    • Anonymous user

      Best NFS game ever.... To run this game on your pc, you should have minimum of Core 2 Duo E6600 2.4GHz processor, Radeon HD 3870 Graphic card and 4GB RAM. If you have it or better, then this NEXT-GEN GAME is yours!

    • Anonymous user

      No fune when the game is slow. it is very slow i played it beacause the framerate is 30 it should be 60.

    More

    You may also like

    Alternatives to Need for Speed Rivals

    Explore Apps

    Latest articles

    Laws concerning the use of this software vary from country to country. We do not encourage or condone the use of this program if it is in violation of these laws. Softonic may receive a referral fee if you click or buy any of the products featured here.