Not bad for a PSP racer
Now I'll be honest, I haven't really played the other Need For Speeds. The whole franchise lost me with Underground.
Now Undercover for the other platforms is getting mixed reviews, and I haven't played the other versions. However, the PSP version I think is safe from this (as well as the Wii version I heard).
However their are a couple things. The first one for someone who has played Need For Speed on the PSP before know that their is no open city. However from what I heard, its pretty useless on the console versions anyways since you just hit the down button and off you go on the next race wherever you are on the map.
Whats funny about that is this. When you race you are stuck on a track. With red X's and arrows as well as barriers preventing from leaving it. The game however has a couple modes that have you drive in an open world. So its there, they just didn't want it.
On that note, the graphics are pretty good. Its obvious the developers know how to make a PSP game. And the AI, while it never screws up a turn, isn't oblivious to making a mistake. On more then one occasion, I've seen the AI smack into traffic. Having a falable opponent makes the game better in my opinion.
Once you get a hang of it, the game does become pretty easy. All I have to say is if you want a challenge, maybe you should check out Midnight Club on PSP. If you are looking to win at a game because your gamer skills are lacking (like me) check this out.
Unlike the other PSP racer this Christmas, Undercover features online multiplayer. Which would be great, if more the 30 people were playing. While its realtivly easy to find a race, these people probaly are experts at the game. Casual players beware.
Overall a good game. Personally I would go with Midnight Club LA Remix this Christmas, but either game is good. Hey, why not go with both.
4 out of 5