Open world games can keep players entertained for hours on end. They skyrocketed to popularity with the release of Grand Theft Auto III in 2001 and became an even bigger deal after the Elder Scrolls games were released. Who doesn’t love getting to endlessly wander an immersive, open world setting?
Ghost Games – the developer behind the Need For Speed franchise – is well aware of how open-world gaming lures players in and keeps them there for hours. Some NFS games are indeed open-world. You can play Most Wanted, Heat, Underground 2, and 2015’s Need For Speed Remastered in open-world settings.
However, is Need For Speed Hot Pursuit open world?
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Is Need For Speed Hot Pursuit open world?
Palm City, the fictional cityscape in Need For Speed Hot Pursuit is not technically a fully open-world game. However, it does have a free roam mode that you can enter into if you would like to go exploring on your own. Still, it is really just there to let you explore the roads at your own pace, really. You will not find any cops or other racers like yourself. There also aren’t any timed trials or pursuits, and you cannot use your weapons.
Also check out: Is Need for Speed Rivals cross platform?
How to enter into free roam
So, how do you enter into the free roam mode in Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit? If you want to venture out on your own, all you need to do is press Control+R on your controller. If you are on a PC, use the right control button and hover to any racer or police event.
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How immersive is Need For Speed Hot Pursuit?
Though tempted to say that this game is immersive, in free roam mode, you are really restricted as to your activities. As previously mentioned, there are no cops, fellow racers, weapons, or pursuits. The only thing free-roam mode is good for is figuring out all of Palm City’s roadways so that you know its hazards and quickest routes. It is also a good way to practice your driving skills.
You won’t find any gauges, maps, or other NFS basics when you enter free roam mode. In other words, this isn’t an immersive, open-world experience, but it has aspects.
Now you know the answer to “Is Need For Speed Hot Pursuit open world?” and can decide whether you want to try free roam mode. While it is helpful for figuring out quick and safe routes in Palm City, you don’t get to do much else.
Also check: Is Need For Speed Heat Cross Platform?