Games of 2014 – The Crew

Created by Ubisoft Reflections, Driver got its start on the PlayStation One before moving on to other platforms and eventually flourishing with the 2011 release Driver: San Francisco on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

For its next-gen debut, Reflections shied away from that franchise, but kept its spirit intact with its latest project, The Crew. In this multiplayer racing game, you’ll work alongside three fellow drivers, completing missions by any means necessary. Whether you’re tearing it up on the open road or making a shortcut through a few bushes offroad, the choice on how you complete each mission is completely yours – just as long as the job gets done.

The game focuses on co-op support, as up to four people can join a squad and complete certain aspects of the mission to guarantee success, such as boxing an opponent in to prevent their escape or keeping pursuit long enough so they won’t slow down. It’s arcade racing basics, but it feels surprisingly fresh in a group setting, especially if you’re going up against another squad.

One cool element to The Crew is that you can take on other squads. Although Ubisoft hasn’t shown too much of this in detail, it hinted that the multiplayer portion of the game will be huge, with squads running around and competing in certain missions. This opens up an enormous community feature for the game, one we’re sure we won’t get enough of.

Better still, Ubisoft Reflections has plenty of room for you and your team. We’re talking miles of square footage based on Miami, from the bustling city scene to the smaller outskirts. No matter which way you turn in the game, you’ll find no shortage of stuff to do, including races in the desert, runs through the countryside and in pure free-driving fashion, trashing oncoming traffic in an effort to keep up with your opponents.

The gameplay in The Crew is quite easy to get into, with acceleration, brake and precision handling, no matter which car you choose for the job. It’s great that the game is so adaptable to various game audiences, as it’s easier for people – even those not prone to driving games – to jump in and have a good time. Ubisoft Reflections has done a great job leaving it open, no matter your skill level.

We can’t wait to hit the road with The Crew. With its huge multiplayer support, trailblazing presentation and great gameplay, it’ll continue the quality driving trend that Ubisoft Reflections started long ago. Be sure to check it out when it makes its debut next year.