Need for Speed Unbound's latest update, Volume 9, introduces "Lockdown," a thrilling new PvPvE multiplayer mode. This update significantly expands the gameplay experience, introducing intense chases, high-stakes heists, and a fresh selection of vehicles and customisation options.
Lockdown pits five crews of up to three players against each other and the ever-expanding Lockdown Zone, controlled by the enigmatic Racer X. This new game mode tasks players with completing contracts and infiltrating secure lockups to steal "Hot Rides." Successfully securing a vehicle requires a daring escape, culminating in a race to the extraction truck before the Lakeshore Police Department intervenes. Racer X acts as the puppet master, orchestrating events, activating pursuit technology, and controlling the timing of lockup openings and extraction truck departures.
The Lockups themselves offer a rotating selection of desirable vehicles. This week's lineup features Racer X's custom BMW M3 GTR '05, along with fifteen cars inspired by Most Wanted's Blacklist and some of the hardest-to-acquire vehicles from NFS Unbound. Successfully extracting these Hot Rides allows players to use them across free roam, PvP, and Lockdown modes. The contents of the Lockups will refresh weekly, ensuring continuous excitement and variety.
Central to the Lockdown experience is the extraction mechanic. Crews must strategically battle rivals to secure the extraction truck and escape the Lockdown Zone with their loot. Failure to secure the truck before it leaves will result in a devastating EMP blast, potentially jeopardising the mission.
A noteworthy addition is the inclusion of motorbikes, a first for the Need for Speed franchise in Lockdown mode. The BMW S 1000 RR 2019 is now available, offering a unique advantage during gameplay. Motorbikes provide swift access to Lockups without requiring payment and immunity to the Lockdown Zoneâs effects. Dedicated motorbike playlists are also available for PvP and free roam.
Volume 9 also introduces two highly anticipated Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles: the Honda Integra Type R and the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Both cars offer distinct handling characteristics and performance capabilities suitable for the fast-paced challenges of Lockdown. The Integra's nimble handling and high-revving VTEC engine makes it ideal for escaping tight situations, while the Subaru's all-wheel-drive system delivers exceptional traction and control.
The Lockdown Zone itself presents a significant challenge. The Lakeshore PD employs new EMP wall technology, inflicting damage on vehicles within its radius. While the highest loot rewards are located in these zones, entering them instantly boosts the player's heat level to 5 and inflicts ongoing damage.
Players can also tackle four sets of contracts, including those themed around the Blacklist. Completing Blacklist contracts, which involve stealing and extracting Blacklist-inspired cars, ultimately unlocks the original Most Wanted BMW M3 GTR.
Volume 9âs Speed Pass features 45 tiers of unlockable content. Amongst the rewards is the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, complete with various body kits and Lockspec Customs. Regular rewards and a "rap sheet" system facilitate quicker progression through the tiers.
For PvP enthusiasts, Volume 9 delivers a wealth of new content, including a unique motorbike-only playlist. Additional playlists celebrate the NFS 30th anniversary, incorporate Most Wanted themes, and offer new Drift Pro and JDM-focused events. Over sixty new routes and event configurations expand the gameâs replayability. The update also integrates quality-of-life improvements.
The Premium Speed Pass provides further enhancements, immediately unlocking the Honda Integra Type R '98, including customisation options, and two Lockdown Spec Customs of the new Volume 9 cars, as well as the NFS Legends Subaru BRZ 2014. Further rewards include a 30th-anniversary BMW M3 GTR custom, Manufacturer Projections, and unique 30th-anniversary customisation options, spread across 30 tiers.
*Requires NFS Unbound (sold separately) and all game updates to play. Premium Speed Pass content requires the Premium Speed Pass and Need for Speed Unbound (sold separately) and all game updates. Requires gameplay to unlock. Players must log in before the end of Volume 9 to claim their rewards; failure to do so will result in forfeiture.
