Great game, fun to play, cool graphics, adrenaline rush... but needs offline multiplayer.
Im not the only one complaining about the lack of offline multiplayer, but I am also not give this game a completely negative review because of this single lacking feature. Even without offline multiplayer, this game is good.
The graphics for this game are better than Burnout Paradise, but the game engine is almost a clone of BP, but with major tweaks in gameplay. Unlike BP, it allows you to choose between a Cop or Racer, and allows you to switch between the two while playing a single "career" mode. This basically just means that you do not have to create 2 career profiles (1 Cop and the other Racer) and have to switch between the 2 saves. It also includes traps/"weapons" for both Racers and Cops, which adds to the excitement. While playing as a Racer, there are still BP-like racing events that pit you against other racers, where your goal is to reach the finish line first... however, there is an addition: you must also make it while trying not to get thrown off the road by a Cop or a number of them. As a Cop, it is mostly "Cop and Robber" style gameplay in which you must "catch" the Racer or a number of Racers.
Online gameplay is nothing spectacular. Mostly either "Cop and Robber" or "Race" styled events. Although, I have to admit that I have not spent very long with the online aspects of this game, but will edit this review once I do.
Overall, this game is fun and full of adrenaline. You will get a rush driving at 200+ MPH trying to catch the Racer or trying to escape from the Cops. However, I can see myself and many players getting bored very fast. That said, I give it a 6.5 out of 10.
If playing the game offline only, you could probably easily complete the game (or get sick of it) in one or two rental sessions. If playing online though, it could last longer, but for many people, buying the game may not be worth it, even for the online multiplayer.
As much as some people may hate hearing it, I am going to complain once more about the lack of offline multiplayer. This game really should have have offline split-screen multiplayer mode, and I think it was a huge flop on EA/Criterion's part for not including it. It just would have been a hoot and a holler playing with a buddy while in the same room. It also would have added a lot more replay value to the game. If this mode was added and was actually good, then this game would have received an 8.5 out of 10 from me.