Preface
Since my first experience with the NFS franchise (1996 release of The Need For Speed: Special Edition) I've spent more time playing NFS: Most Wanted than all of the others in the series, combined. I've driven over 20,000 miles during the 400+ hours I've spent playing it, and I've picked up a lot of information that I haven't seen in any other Guides, Walkthroughs, FAQ's, or Hints 'n Tips. In this definitive illustrated guide to NFS:MW, I've included everything I've learned, from tips on winning races and eluding police, to how to avoid pitfalls, traps and obstacles. I've also revealed a few things found in other help guides that are wrong. I hope it helps you enjoy the experience more.
As for subsequent releases, such as Carbon, Undercover, Shift and others, I don't think I'll be doing such an in-depth guide as this one. Even though Carbon is the sequel to Most Wanted, it just doesn't inspire me, much. First of all, I'm not crazy about the fact that it takes place entirely at night. And, I especially don't like the idea of having to hire a crew member to race with me (who incidentally beats you out in several of the races). I played it through, several times, and was just not drawn into the game as I was in Most Wanted. The Undercover releases responded terribly to my joystick (Thrustmaster), so I tried two others, with similar results. The graphics made me feel like I was in a cartoon. Shift also had problems with joystick controllers so I tried out a Thrustmaster Ferrari GT wheel system but, the game had a delay in response to the control movements. However, to be fair, these later games will most likely work better on a newer, faster system.
Introduction
Need For Speed: Most Wanted is an arcade-type auto racing game. It is NOT a simulator. While the world graphics are made to approach reality, you must remember that the game physics is from another dimension...the computer gaming dimension. Knowing what you can and cannot do is essential. Likewise, knowing what the A I (Artificial Intelligence) racers and cops can do is just as important. As in real life, you're placed in a world of advantages and limitations. It's critical to learn what these are, to succeed.
I have to tell you, right up front, this game cheats in its attempts to defeat you. Wikipedia's explanation of cheating---"Cheating refers to an immoral way of achieving a goal. It is generally used for the breaking of rules to gain advantage in a competitive situation." There is no better description of what NFS:MW does. There are rules (game physics) that the player is bound by, however, the game's artificial intelligence police and racers are not. This can be frustrating at times but, it's something we just have to live with.
Your first time through a Career will generally take about 25 to 30 hours. That's considering having to re-run races and other events. Add another 6 to 10 hours for the Challenge Series.
The game starts out relatively easy, so you won't get too discouraged right away, and becomes expectedly more difficult as you progress. About half way through Career mode, if you begin to feel out-classed and, at times, that it's impossible to win, don't give up. Determination and perseverance will eventually win the day. In the last stages of the game, things heat up and your opponents (racers and police) become much smarter and very aggressive. Some reviews I've read claim that the game gets too hard, too early but, all things considered, I think the difficulty curve is about right.
When you complete the game for the first time, you are far from done. Going through it again and again, you'll find that NFS:MW offers many different choices that can significantly change your experience. It's never quite the same game twice.