Need for Speed (2015) is a game that has the potential to be one of the stronger entries in the series thanks to its atmosphere and overall fun factor. However, this potential is never fully realized due to the decision to build the game entirely around an always-online infrastructure.

Gameplay and Controls

The default control scheme feels unusual and unintuitive compared to classic NFS standards. Rebinding left and right steering to A and D feels almost mandatory. Finding the restart button and properly navigating the menus takes longer than it should, showing that the interface is not very user-friendly.

One of the biggest issues is the lack of a proper pause function. Even when restarting an event, the game continues running in the background. This is a direct result of the game being fully online.

Additionally, short cutscenes that trigger after collisions during races interrupt the flow and cause unnecessary time loss.

Online Infrastructure Issues

The most serious problem with the game is the absence of an offline mode.
Server maintenance can happen in the middle of gameplay, abruptly interrupting races. In some cases, failed races appear as completed on the map after restarting, which creates confusing and inconsistent behavior.

These issues clearly show the downsides of forcing an online-only structure. If the game had offered offline play with optional online features—similar to what The Crew 2 does—the experience would have been much more stable.

Map, Atmosphere, and Presentation

This is where the game truly shines.

The map design is solid and enjoyable to drive through

The nighttime atmosphere fits the Need for Speed identity very well

The soundtrack is strong

Hearing tracks from older NFS games in certain areas adds a nice nostalgic touch

Overall, the game successfully captures the classic Need for Speed vibe.

Cars and Sound

The car roster is well-balanced—neither too small nor unnecessarily large.
Engine sounds are generally good, although the overall audio levels can feel a bit low at times. The first few hours may require some adjustment, but it improves over time.

Gameplay Comparison

Not as weak as Need for Speed Heat

Not as good as the classic NFS titles

Still solid and enjoyable overall

Overall Verdict

Need for Speed (2015) is a game where the negatives outweigh the positives, yet it still manages to be fun to play.
The forced online requirement, server-related issues, and lack of proper pausing significantly hurt the experience.

Despite all this, the game remains:

Fun

Atmospherically strong

Supported by a great map and soundtrack

Because of these qualities, it still earns its place as one of the more enjoyable entries in the series.

Final Verdict:
Need for Speed (2015) is a game with wasted potential, brought down by poor design decisions—but still enjoyable at its core.

spent the time on my account trying to make the game playable. Complete waste of time and money. for whatever reason the steam version "supports controller" Do no fall for this. There is an issue with your car always having breaks applied, The car will automatically accelerate through the gears on its own. I tried unplugging everything except power and video cables. reinstalling, messing with dead zones, remapping keys. Buy from anywhere but steam and save yourself time and money.

worst experience. can,t change the control from xbox controller to keypad. so frustrating.