Need for Speed: Most Wanted turns 20 and remains a favorite among many fans

The EA classic celebrates two decades since its original release in North America.

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It’s been two decades since one of the most beloved installments in the driving series hit stores and left an indelible mark on an entire generation. That title, released on November 15, 2005, completely transformed the franchise’s identity, blending spectacular chases, unforgettable cars, and an aesthetic that defined the direction of speed games for years to come.

Its arrival coincided with a golden era for the genre, and what it offered at the time not only won over fans of the saga, but also became a benchmark for future developments within and outside of EA.

The Legacy of Need for Speed: Most Wanted

The 2005 classic solidified its position as one of the main reasons the series achieved worldwide fame. Its BMW M3 GTR became one of the most recognizable cars in video game history, and its combination of open-world exploration, road tension, and progression marked by the “Blacklist” made it a unique experience for its time.

Twenty years later, it’s still considered by many to be the high point of the series. A special anniversary for a title that, to this day, continues to hold a prominent place in the memory of gamers.