The next installment in the Need for Speed franchise is just a few short weeks away and it’s taking a very different approach.

Revealed barely two months ago, the game features that familiar flair, set in the Underground, but with some cel-shading on the side and a sprinkle of A$AP Rocky.

With the game coming up hot and fast, though, here’s everything we know so far…

Formats

Need for Speed Unbound releases on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S

Release Date

The game officially launches on December 2, 2022. EA Play Members and Palace Edition Owners will be able to dive in a bit earlier, though, on November 29.

Is this a sequel?

Seems to be very much its own entity, not following existing franchise spinoffs but does present some callbacks to existing games in the series. It’s the 25th Need for Speed game, and Criterion’s first since 2013

Where is it set?

Unbound is based in a fictional city, inspired by Chicago, called Lakeshore City.

Is this Open World?

Yep, it’s mostly centered around street racing and will see the return of the ‘Heat’ system. You can also customise various elements of your car.

What’s the soundtrack sounding like?

Very underground and very modern. Aside from A$AP Rocky who is prominently featured on game material, here’s the full tracklist.

Any word on the cars we might see?

Yes! EA published the full list recently which you can see here! Everything from Volvo, to Porsche, Mercedes and Lamborghini.

Will there be DLC?

There’s some pre-order DLC for the game if you pre-purchase, which includes a funky driving effect, unique license plate, some special stickers and artwork and $150,000 in the bank which can be used in multiplayer. There is no Season Pass or post launch DLC confirmed at present.

Editions

Standard Edition

The Standard Edition of Need for Speed Unbound includes the base game as well as the pre-order content mentioned above.

Palace Edition

The Palace Edition includes all of the above, early access to the game, as well as 4 Custom Cars, Gassy Driving Effects, Mashmen Decals and License Plates, Exclusive Character Pose and Banner, and a Special Clothing Pack with 20 items.