I don't think I get it!!??

I'm normally the first person to argue that racing games don't need a storyline. But, maybe I was wrong.

When it comes to open world racing/driving, I really think a good story would help me.

Am I missing something? Or is NFS:MW just too subtle for me???

To be fair, I have only played the game 3 times so far. The first time I played, I was quite enjoying it. I was playing offline only, got through some events and found some cars.

The second time was online, we played through several playlists (is that what they are called?), the racing was good (better than Paradise I thought anyway), but some of the other events just left me a little cold. There was one where we met up and then just had to drive off a cliff, why?

I know they have to throw some easy challenges in there, so those of us who aren't the stig can still compete.... but driving off a cliff a few times had limited fun.

Then I played a bit more offline last night. I got frustrated. Mostly because I wasn't winning events that I tried... but also, because I don't see the point, or more to the point, I don't think I like the point.

Criterion Games seem to want to change what racing games are, and I don't think I like where they are going with it. I really hate to say that. I really want to love a CG racing game again. But, the games they are making, they no longer seem to be making for me.

I like the Burnout formula, lets put Paradise to one side when we talk about what that formula is.

I like starting in a slow car and working my way up to the fastest. That isn't boring, that is having a decent learning curve and a great reward system. Playing for hours to unlock the best car is only boring if the game is boring to play.

This is where I think I am missing something with NFS:MW, I am getting these 'mod' things for winning races, so there is a progression. But, other than the boost which you get for winning your first race in a car. I don't really care about the other 'mods' as I'm not really sure what they do for me and I am not really into the whole 'modding' thing. I would rather be unlocking cars, that is more tangible for me.

I like the game being 'in my face!'. I like it emphasising the exciting elements that are going on. It underlines the experience for me. The graphics on screen that say 'takedown' or 'crash' or the bits that tell you about near misses or oncoming are way too understated. The way I described this yesterday (as well as the lack of story/motivation) was that the game hasn't sucked me in. All of the onscreen stuff is just way too subtle, or small!

Where is the DJ? Some guidance would be lovely.

There is no addiction factor. I don't feel a need to go back for more.

I will keep trying though, maybe I will 'get it' soon!