Night time setting along with overly winding roads doesn't mix well. Tons of tuneups and upgrades makes it enjoyable.
Graphics/Physics: 8.5 - Graphics live up to everything and more in the racing genre. Carbon has a darker more shadowy touch than its previous game setting. Car damage still doesn't effect gameplay much. Fantastic cut-scenes, very realistic people even with the cartoony touch added.
Sound: 8.5 - Pretty good choice in the soundtrack, a few "ewws" and a few "ahhs". Great car and racing sounds, very realistic.
Environment/Maps: 5 - Maps all seem overly dark or shadowed. Racetracks are way to winding and turny for my relaxed preference.
Game Engine/Scripting: 7 - Police seem like their always on your tail and they don't ever seem to stop. Bosses are indeed much to difficult and ends up being more annoying than rewarding. Car handling and performance is top notch as usual.
Interface: 9 - Need for Speeds typical interface is still around, never fails at being ultra easy to learn and control. Tons of customizable upgrades and tuneups is always a huge plus. Good choice of Makes and models to choose from.
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Overall: 7 - Night time setting along with overly winding roads doesn't mix well. Tons of tuneups and upgrades makes it enjoyable.