The Need for Speed 3DO box art

3DO Interactive Multiplayer · Racing

The Need for Speed

Certified classic

System3DO Interactive Multiplayer
Released1994
GenreRacing
DeveloperEA Vancouver
PublisherElectronic Arts
Players1–2 players
CommitmentQuick session (Under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
SeriesNeed for Speed
LegacyCertified classic · legacy score 33

Developed by EA Vancouver and published by Electronic Arts, The Need for Speed arrived on the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer in 1994 as a racing game.

It came out in the 3DO's second year on the market. Other notable 3DO releases from 1994 include Gex, Way of the Warrior and Lemmings. Among the 7 3DO racing games in our database, it ranks #1 by legacy score.

It is part of the Need for Speed series. The series also appears on other systems with Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed (PS1) and Need for Speed II (PS1). EA Vancouver also made FIFA International Soccer for the 3DO.

The Need for Speed supports up to 2 players, whether that means taking turns or going head-to-head.

Pick it if…

  • you want to race and compete
  • you have time for a quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
  • you have a friend to play against
  • you want to experience one of the 3DO's defining games

Maybe skip it if…

  • you want a story or exploration rather than laps

What playing The Need for Speed is like

Racing games range from realistic driving to kart racers with weapons and shortcuts. Races are short, making them great for quick sessions and split-screen rivalries.

Tip for newcomers: Learn each track's racing line and braking points; in kart racers, item strategy matters as much as driving.

The Need for Speed gameplay screenshot on 3DO
In-game screenshot (3DO)

The Need for Speed walkthroughs & guides

Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for The Need for Speed.

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Playing 3DO games today

The 3DO is a niche but interesting library for players curious about the early CD era.

The Need for Speed FAQ

When did The Need for Speed come out on the 3DO?

The Need for Speed was released for the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer in 1994.

Who made The Need for Speed?

It was developed by EA Vancouver and published by Electronic Arts.

Is The Need for Speed multiplayer?

Yes. The Need for Speed supports up to 2 players.

How long does The Need for Speed take to play?

As a racing game, The Need for Speed typically falls into the "Quick session" category: under an hour, or endless arcade fun. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about The Need for Speed on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

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