Need for Speed ProStreet is also sadly underwhelming in the graphics department. While I know that it can't possibly look as good as its next generation counterparts, it is ugly even when compared to titles like the now ancient Burnout 3. The cars look fairly realistic but show relatively no signs of damage, even after completely totaling them. Backgrounds and tracks are devoid of life and detail while looking fairly blurred most of the time. While the next generation versions of this title most likely had more attention and better funding, this level of graphics are completely inexcusable.

Controls are also a huge issue in this title. You will hold the Wii-mote like a classic NES pad, tilting it left or right to turn. While this sounds like a good idea on paper, the execution just isn't there. While steering, the game will often not recognize the severity of this tipping. This usually leads to not turning hard enough or just completely straightening out during curves. You never feel like you are actually in full control over your vehicle at any point. Blowing a lead due to imprecise controls is completely unforgivable for a racing game.

ProStreet is also host to some less than stellar audio. The announcers in this game are incredibly difficult to understand. This is mostly due to some heavy accents and a complete overuse of racing slang. They quickly become annoying and make you want to mute your television to end the pain. Fortunately, the vehicle sound effects are well done and the soundtrack is host to some good music to help drown out these annoyances.

With all of the good racing games that are already available, I certainly can't recommend this title. If this is what we can expect from future Need for Speed games for this console, then perhaps ProStreet should be the last. It is clear that this version was an afterthought considering the sizeable quality difference between it and its next generation brothers. Not having any online play also hinders this title, but it most likely wouldn't have helped much considering all of its other issues. If you are looking for a great and enjoyable racing experience, you should definitely look elsewhere.

By Adam Brown
CCC Freelance Writer

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