Explore the revamped cops and robbers gameplay in Need for Speed Unbound’s Hot Pursuit mode, where strategy meets high-octane chases.
“Need for Speed Unbound” brings a fresh twist to its classic cops and robbers gameplay in its Hot Pursuit mode. While we’re all familiar with the basic rules of the road—like driving within the speed limit and yielding when necessary—Unbound’s version of the law operates on a different level. With the launch of Volume 8, the in-game police force takes its pursuit tactics to a whole new level, offering a more intense and spectacular chase experience.
This latest installment harkens back to the series’ roots, reminiscent of “Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit.” However, in today’s gaming landscape, filled with season passes and live services, the experience has evolved. While the core thrill of the chase remains, there’s a new layer of strategy that adds depth to the chaos.
In Hot Pursuit’s player-versus-player (PvP) mode, racers and cops switch roles, each with a simple objective: racers must complete the checkpoint race without being wrecked, while the cops aim to take down all the racers before they finish. As a racer, you can access your full garage of cars, customized and tuned to S tier. It’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your collection, including classics like the 1988 190E, and to earn some extra cash.
On the flip side, as a cop, you’ll find a new garage filled with police vehicles from around the world, all customizable. The addition of recognizable police liveries and pursuit tech—such as spike strips, roadblocks, and EMP bursts—adds an exciting layer to the gameplay. These tools turn car chases into chaotic, destructive spectacles that make you question whether it might have been better to let the racers go and run their plates later.
Pursuit tech is crucial in giving cops the upper hand, making it worth the grind to unlock and equip these gadgets as you progress through the police career. However, amidst the flurry of wrecked cars and spike strips, some of the simple joys of skillful driving get lost. This mode isn’t about outmaneuvering your opponents with finesse; instead, success hinges on well-timed ramming and strategic use of pursuit tech. This shift in focus makes the chases feel more like a WWE match, filled with vehicular takedowns and high-impact collisions.
Despite this, Unbound still offers plenty of ways to flex your driving skills, making Hot Pursuit a distinct and engaging experience. It draws parallels to battle royale modes in games like “Forza Horizon” and “The Crew Motorfest,” where the goal is to preserve your health bar while taking down others.
With Ubisoft Ivory Tower set to introduce its own cops and robbers mode this autumn, fans of high-speed chases will soon have plenty of options. In the meantime, it’s worth investing some time into Unbound, mastering the grind, and turning yourself into a formidable force on the road.
