# **Need for Speed Unbound: An Era Comes to a Close, Yet the Franchise Persists**
The exhilarating escapades of *Need for Speed Unbound* are drawing to a close—in terms of newly added content, at least. Following two years filled with updates and expansions, Electronic Arts (EA) has made it clear that the game will no longer receive additional support. Nevertheless, this does not signify the demise of the *Need for Speed* franchise. Instead, Criterion Games, the developers behind *Unbound*, are redirecting their efforts toward another significant EA project: *Battlefield*.
## **Criterion Revs Up for Battlefield**
In a recent blog announcement, EA confirmed that Criterion Games will now fully allocate its resources to help DICE in crafting the next installment of *Battlefield*, anticipated to release later this year. This isn’t the first occasion Criterion has been summoned to aid *Battlefield*. Back in 2021, the studio was instrumental during the final phases of *Battlefield 2042*, which subsequently delayed the release of *Need for Speed Unbound*.
Since September 2023, a considerable segment of Criterion’s workforce has been engaged in *Battlefield*, with only a minor contingent still working on updates for *Unbound*. Now, following the launch of the final content update, the entire studio is redirecting its attention to ensure the upcoming *Battlefield* meets expectations.
## **The Road Ahead for Need for Speed**
Although *Need for Speed Unbound* will no longer receive updates, the franchise itself continues to thrive. In an interview with [IGN](https://www.ign.com/articles/ea-puts-criterions-need-for-speed-team-on-battlefield-confirms-no-more-content-coming-to-nfs-unbound), Vince Zampella, head of Respawn Entertainment and Group GM for EA Studios, assured fans that *Need for Speed* will make a comeback:
> *”With a better understanding of what our players want from a Need for Speed experience, we plan to bring the franchise back in a new and interesting way.”*
While no official information has been released about the next *Need for Speed* title, it is evident that EA is dedicated to the series. However, given that Criterion is currently focused on *Battlefield*, it might take several years before a new *Need for Speed* game is formally announced or launched.
## **Reflecting on Need for Speed Unbound**
Despite its conclusion, *Need for Speed Unbound* pioneered several advancements in the franchise. The game’s final update even introduced a first for the series: playable motorcycles. This feature received a positive response, leading to speculation that two-wheeled vehicles could feature prominently in future *Need for Speed* titles.
Throughout nine content updates, *Unbound* offered new vehicles, events, and enhancements to gameplay, keeping the community actively involved. While some fans may feel disheartened by the cessation of support, the game remains entirely playable, and its distinctive art style and street-racing emphasis have left a significant imprint.
## **What Lies Ahead for Racing Aficionados?**
With *Need for Speed* on hiatus, racing game fans might need to seek their adrenaline rush from other sources. Titles like *Forza Horizon 5*, *Gran Turismo 7*, and *The Crew Motorfest* still provide thrilling racing experiences. However, for devoted fans of *Need for Speed*, patience will be vital as EA endeavors to return the franchise in a novel and engaging manner.
## **Concluding Thoughts**
While *Need for Speed Unbound* is no longer receiving updates, its legacy will endure as part of the storied *Need for Speed* franchise. EA’s decision to pivot Criterion’s focus to *Battlefield* may postpone the next racing installment, but it also implies that when *Need for Speed* does make its return, it will be with a revitalized vision and a deeper understanding of player desires.
For the time being, fans can continue to enjoy *Unbound* while anticipating what the future has in store for one of the most legendary racing game franchises in history.