Shift 2: Unleashed inspired by Bizarre, says dev

Need for Speed: Shift developers, ‘Slightly Mad Studios,’ said in an interview with Videogamer that the project they are now working on, Shift 2: Unleashed, has been inspired by elements from games by Bizarre Creations, the recently closed down studio, like Geometry Wars and Project Gotham Racing.

“You know, absolutely unfortunate. Those guys, we’re kind of following in their footsteps with the work they set out on Project Gotham. Absolutely fantastic game,” designer Andy Tudor said.

“I remember playing that ’til midnight and beyond on some nights. And then things like Geometry Wars have inspired modes within our games as well.

“You know, with Autolog, when you look on the HUD, I can see your name on there, which is a constant reminder of your score, your fastest lap – something like that. And that was such a critical thing in Geometry Wars, like playing that game and seeing your name on there – which was frustrating as hell – and just wanting to beat you. Not necessarily wanting to beat my own score, but to beat you. That was really motivating.”

Shift 2: Unleashed will release early next month on the 360, PS3 and PC. Till then, get all the info you want on the game from our recent interview with the devs.