Industry whispers outline the next Need for Speed launch this November
A well-known insider in the gaming press, Jeff Grubb, has suggested that the upcoming Need for Speed title is aiming for a November release this year. The chatter from the industry circles points to a major entry in the franchise that could set a new tone for racing games across platforms.
From early discussions and leaks, the title is expected to shift away from older generation consoles. The project is reportedly planned as a modern multi platform release designed specifically for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S and X. This approach marks a notable change for the series, emphasizing newer hardware capabilities and faster load times, while potentially narrowing accessibility on older systems.
Criterion Games is said to be steering development on this new Need for Speed. The British studio is known for previous high profile entries such as Need for Speed Hot Pursuit released in 2010 and Need for Speed Most Wanted from 2012, which gives fans a sense of the studio’s historical strengths in high speed chases and cinematic police pursuits. Their involvement signals a return to the franchise’s core DNA while integrating modern performance features and contemporary visuals.
Initial plans reportedly set the release window back to 2021, but development was redirected to assist with another major project at that time, delaying the game. The shift demonstrates how developers sometimes juggle multiple responsibilities within large publishing houses, especially when a title sits at the intersection of new hardware and live service ambitions.
Earlier announcements also mentioned the cancellation of a widely anticipated EA Play Live event, which would have showcased updates and new reveals for several EA franchises. The absence of a formal summer presentation left fans and analysts looking for information to be filters through post show notes and direct developer communications rather than live demonstrations.
- The racing community has noted that Gran Turismo 7 achieved a high reception overall on Metacritic, contrasting with strong expectations placed on Sony’s racing lineup
- A colorful concept titled Sunrise GP Race With Cartoon Graphics has been teased, accompanied by a trailer that sparked curiosity about art direction and stylistic choices
- Rumors circulate about Ubisoft pursuing a new heroic shooter, adding to the broader rumor mill around major publisher strategies for the year
As fans parse these hints and official confirmations, the industry remains attentive to how the next Need for Speed will balance nostalgia with innovation, while navigating platform strategy, performance targets, and pacing the reveal timeline for maximum impact.