Review by: Danielle Riendeau

Need For Speed: Shift is about the most accessible, purest and most polished racing game on the market. Though it’s decidedly sim-oriented (unlike the last Need For Speed title – last year’s Undercover) it offers such a customizable experience that just about anyone can have a blast with it. It’s beefed up and bursting at the seams with content, with tracks, cars and modes out the wazoo; yet it presents a very clear and polished vision throughout the game. Whether you’re competing in a time trial or blazing through a drift competition, you’ll never once forget that you are the driver of a very fast car - and you are among the best in the world.

This game is all about speed – and leveling. As with most “serious” (or at least, semi-serious) racing games, you’ll start the single player mode at the bottom of the rankings and earn your way to the top. In Shift there are 50 driver levels to attain, each one earned by driving fast and earning profile points in the “precision” and “aggression” categories. Placing high in races earns you cash, which allows you to upgrade your rides and buy new vehicles. You’ll also earn “stars” in each race, which allow you to unlock new races and new tiers of events.

The game rates your driving style – you’re awarded profile points based on aggressive moves (like scraping other cars or even spinning them off the road) and precision moves (like mastering corners and staying on the racing line). Each particular move has a point value assigned, and successfully chaining said moves together inside of a race nets you massive points. You get a nifty icon denoting your chosen style, which accompanies you on your level grind from rookie to level 50 racing master.

There’s plenty of incentive to climb the leveling ladder – each rung earns you tasty treats (like new slots in your garage for your rides) and gives you the access to new, shiny toys like vehicle upgrades and aesthetic options.