Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the sequel to the 2009 racing game Need for Speed: SHIFT, entitled SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED, with which it is aiming to surpass the almost five million copies in global sales of the original.

 

This racing simulation title, like the first game, also has the team at Slightly Mad Studios at its development helm. SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED will be making use of the first-person cockpit view that was first employed in SHIFT and will be launching in spring 2011 (autumn 2011 for SA).

 

SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED features a new rendering engine that according to EA allows for a massive graphics overhaul, putting the player in the heart of the racing action. It will also incorporate the latest iteration of Need for Speed Autolog, which is the network that connects gamers for head-to-head races as well as compares player stats.

 

“SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED is redefining immersive racing by blending the rush of tearing up the track at unbelievable speeds with the emotional experience of competitive battle,” said Marcus Nilsson, executive producer, SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED. “We are also working closely with real-world performance drivers to ensure that SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED captures their experience and becomes the benchmark in authentic racing action.”

 

The game will be available on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 (PS3) and the PC next year.