Need for Speed Unbound: How to Turn off Effects

Need For Speed Unbound takes the Need for Speed series into a new stylistic direction. While the series has had urban neon stylization for a while, such as the classic Need For Speed Most Wanted, this title takes it to a new level, mixing its realistically rendered cars with bright cel-shaded drivers and effects.

It's a stark contrast, and as expected, it's a contentious topic within Need for Speed Unbound's fan base. Some think that they should dial it back, while others think that the next Need for Speed should fully commit to the new look.

Ultimately, this is a small part that doesn't determine the game's overall quality, and someone who doesn't like the new style can still likely find something enjoyable. But for players who are dead set against it, there are options they can take to improve their experience.

Need For Speed Unbound's Effects

The bad news is that it's impossible to completely turn off this game's driving effects. That being said, it is possible to minimize them, at least for the player's car. They won't find this option in the menu, however. Instead, they'll find it in Need for Speed Unbound's in-game garage.

One thing the player can turn completely off is their car's personal sound effects. First, they head to "Rides," then "Style," then "Driving Effects," before landing on the "Samples" menu. From there, choose the "none" option, which looks like a mute symbol.

The smoke effects and light trails can't be turned off, but the developers included something for players who want it to be low-key. Once again, the player moves to "Driving Effects," this time choosing the "Tag" menu. From there, they choose the "Cloaked" option. It's one of the first tags the player has, and it's the closest thing the game has to a naturalistic look.

It makes sense why Criterion Games doesn't have a complete off switch yet. The game's tags and samples are one of the pillars of Need for Speed Unbound's event rewards, and the studio wants to support the game with long-term engagement. That being said, considering the amount of feedback players have given, it wouldn't be surprising if a full off switch comes in some future update.