Meet Spike

At the start of the game, you’re doing some serious driving around Ventura Bay and manage to get away from the cops. However, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. As you pull over, a guy named Spike introduces himself to you and invites you to a club where a lot of local drivers will be hanging out. Since you are new to the city, it might be a good idea to check it out.

You start out with a Mustang, but Spike says his friend Travis has several cars he’s looking to unload—and you could use an upgrade. So what are you waiting for? Spike has sent you directions to the club over your phone. Take a look at the mini-map down in the lower-left corner of the screen. The blue line indicates the route. Plus a line of chevrons appears overlaid on the road, providing heads up directions to follow.

This is not a race and you’re not being timed. But this is your first time behind the wheel, so use it to get familiar with the controls and how to drive. Think of this ride to the club as a tutorial on the basics of driving.

You meet some of Spike’s friends at the club. He then takes you into the garage where you’re introduced to Travis, who has three cars for sale. Pick any of the three, pay the man, and get the keys to your new ride.

If you’re itchin’ to give your new wheels a spin, you’re in luck. Spike and Amy are ready to take you to meet some more people. Of course, you’re going to race there!