Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit was released to a public gamepool already saturated with similar games. In fact, this was the fourth game in the series on the Playstation (the other's being Need for Speed, Need for Speed II and Need for Speed: V-Rally). What sets this game apart is it's sub-title. Hot Pursuit is actually a new mode, a very welcome addition, and something that really sets it apart from others. Not only are you racing now for the pure sake of it, you are now apparently on the run from the law. Cops will race after you, deploys stingers and speed traps, converse with one another, and generally try and make your life hell, and you will love it. A genuinely new mode, it has all the hallmarks of being a feature that could be expanded upon in future titles and is not just a gimmick, it's good fun. Additionaly, there are the regular modes like Single Race, Tournament, Knockout and Practice. These have been covered in previous games of the series and are no different this time around. Comparatively small, there is only eight cars and eight tracks available, and not even all of them will be available to you from the outset. However the tracks are large, with several checkpoints and are clearly different in design. You will be racing in places like Germany and Australia. Cars are incredibly detailed, but unfortunately dont take damage. Some big names are here, including Ferrari and Lamborghini, and if you so wish, the police cars. They handle pretty well, and you should have no problems with the control, its easy to get to grips with. The graphics are incredibly detailed and fast, with good variation in the tracks and surrounds, and a good sense of speed. Weather effects deserve a special mention, which you can change at will, can really affect you performance as a driver, but is also really well done. You may just find yourself looking more at the rain and thunder instead of the road ahead of you sometimes. Sound is suitably good, with a good selection of music tracks and effects, although none of it is stand-out. You can choose between Rock or Techno modes, although unfortunately not a lot of music has been included. However, its suitable to the game, and you will be having such a good time racing anyway that you wont be to bothered with it. Overall, gameplay is incredibly fun, with a a good and easy menu system, a good selection of tracks, music, effects and cars. The inclusion of Hot Pursuit will really draw you in, and playing 2 player, with one as the cop car and the other as a driver will keep you and a friend entertained for ages. The game should also have you playing for a good long time with many, many hidden tracks and cars. Not all are good, but it is fun to play on and a great diversion from the ordinary. If you are into racing titles, then you will most certainly have a lot of fun with this. It has great pacing and a great feel. Graphics are great, with little to no pop up and no slowdown. Hot Pursuit is something you will keep coming back to, and the game has a real polished feel to it. A return to form for the Need for Speed series, after the disastrous Need for Speed II. Get it.
Other Helpful Reviews for Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit
I first had a taste of the Need For Speed series when I bought NFS 2, and was immediately hooked to it. What I loved about that game was the exotic cars, the car videos (which were accompanied by solid music), the circui... Read Full Review
I have played this game with a friend for a long, long time. The sensation of speed is just wonderful due to the best positioned camera ever in a videogame. Is just amazing how you can handle all those cars beautifully i... Read Full Review
