As is the norm for the franchise, you can upgrade or purchase new cars as the game progresses. You'll earn specific amounts of cash depending on where you finish, and the simplistic store has various engines and brakes available. As expected, it's toned and dumbed down enough so that it resembles the other ports just enough (barely) to earn the name.
The biggest loss is the intensity of the gameplay. Police chases (which somehow earned a "T" on the home systems and a "E" on the GBA) are toned down drastically. While multiple cars can still tail you, specific challenges only require the player to dodge spike strips. Losing means nothing, not even a fine.
While not a replacement for the current or next-gen console versions, this simple substitute carries some nifty technology that makes it worth a look. The concepts are here no matter how watered down, and when at full speed, it offers up decent thrills for the hardware. Most Wanted has only a few minor issues because of the translation, and fans of 3-D gaming may still have a few reasons to hang on to their GBAs.
Need for Speed Most Wanted is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB. This game can also be found on: Nintendo DS, PC, PS2, PSP, Xbox, Xbox 360 and Mobile Phone.
Article comments
1 - Joan Hunt
Would you recommend this for an almost 10-year old? Will he get bored by it quickly? My kid isn't plugged into his GBA all the time, but he does enjoy his games. I'd like to get him something that provides a consistent challenge and won't be conquered in a week of casual play.
2 - Matt Paprocki
This would probably be ok if you feel the content is appropriate. It took me a while before the game really picked up its pace.
My current obsession is Mario and Luigi Superstar Saga. It's a solid 30 hour title (and longer if you take your time). I can't recomend it enough.