The “Need for Speed” series has been a steady force for well over a decade now. Most recently, we have seen the release of Need for Speed: Shift, which, following modern day gaming trends, was released on every console, computer, mobile phone, and washing machine under the sun. Unusually though, the Nintendo Wii was left off the guest list; there is quite a shortage of solid racing titles on Nintendo’s home console, so why pass-up on this seemingly great opportunity? Well, it seems Electronic Arts (EA) are well aware of this particular gap in the market, which explains their latest foray into the casual games market, Need for Speed: Nitro. Not only is this the Wii’s foremost “Need for Speed” title, but the Wii is in fact the only home console that will play host to the game. (A handheld version is available for Nintendo DS.)
Initial impressions were positive; a console specific instalment may allow developers EA Montreal to focus on their target audience, as well as creating an opportunity for them to implement the Wii’s unique control system effectively…a rare luxury these days.
A brief overview of the game’s features, followed by a few fantastically weak attempts at racing victory, led to those positive initial impressions becoming equally positive game-play experiences. The art direction is bold, bright, and in-favour of simple geometry, a fitting choice for the modest graphical capabilities of Nintendo’s home console. The control method is minimalistic, the automobiles handle with the precision of a St. Bernard dog, and the NPCs (non player controlled characters) are all wearing sunglasses. That is sensibly all you should ask of an arcade racing title.
