Need for Speed: Shift reaches iPhone, iPod touch
updated 03:10 pm EST, Fri December 18, 2009
Game attempts to bridge action, simulation
EA has released an iPhone version of Need for Speed: Shift, a racing game originally released for consoles and Windows PCs. The title attempts to bridge arcade racing with simulation elements; players are for instance given a first-person perspective, and must also cope with semi-realistic physics. The game's 20 cars are based on real ones, such as the Pagani Zonda, the BMW M3 GT2 and the Subaru Imprexa WRX STI.
Shift's 18 tracks are set in locations such as Chicago, Tokyo and London. As players progress they can compete in circuit or quick race modes, upgrading vehicles with cosmetic and performance enhancements. Multiplayer makes use of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and supports six modes of its own.
The game costs $10, and is a 178MB download from the App Store. All iPhones and iPod touches are supported, but OpenGL ES 2.0 acceleration requires an iPhone 3GS or a third-generation Touch. Gamers must have iPhone 2.2.1 firmware installed.
