Need for Speed II

Need for Speed II is a racing game that puts players behind the wheel of exotic sports cars from around the world. Developed by Electronic Arts Canada and published by Electronic Arts, it first launched in March 1997 for PlayStation and Microsoft Windows. As the second game in the famous Need for Speed series, it set the stage for the franchise’s future focus on fast cars, global tracks, and competitive driving.

Unlike everyday racing simulators of its time, Need for Speed II centered on an international collection of cars and tracks. Players could race through locations inspired by countries such as Canada, Australia, Germany, and Nepal. Each course presented different challenges—sharp mountain passes, desert highways, and coastal roads—encouraging players to learn every turn and maximize their control at high speed.

The car selection was one of the game’s biggest attractions. Luxury brands like Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, and Lotus appeared alongside concept cars that were designed specifically for the game. Players could customize settings such as circuit laps and weather, tailoring each session to their preference. The soundtrack, distinct to each track, helped build intensity without overpowering the focus on racing.

At its release, the game was praised for its car variety and vivid environments but received mixed feedback about handling realism. Still, the thrill of driving rare supercars across unique global settings made it a standout entry for its era. It later inspired an expanded version titled Need for Speed II: SE (Special Edition), which added improved visuals, new effects, and extra vehicles for both casual and competitive play.

One reason the game remains popular today is its accessibility. Players can experience Need for Speed II instantly on kbhgames.com, where it runs free in a web browser with no installation required. This makes it easy to revisit the classic without needing the original hardware.

More than 25 years later, Need for Speed II is remembered as a key step in defining the personality of the Need for Speed series—a mix of global style, luxury performance, and pure driving adrenaline that shaped one of gaming’s most enduring racing franchises.