Need for Speed: High Stakes

 PlayStation
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. GamePro
    100
    Between the hot cars and tracks, in-depth Tournament mode, and thrilling cop chases, this excellent racer's got depth and style to spare. It's worth every cent.
  2. Gamezilla!
    91
    The overall graphics, gameplay and realism are as good as any racing game I have seen for the Sony PlayStation, and it’s a lot of fun too.
  3. Absolute Playstation
    91
    The graphics are absolutely stunning, but lose a few points for a quirky frame rate and lack of spectacular lighting, but damn they sure are perdy!
  5. Game Revolution
    91
    As many may know, "Gran Turismo" ain’t much in the way of thrilling action or multiplayer (It’s not extremely fast and there are no real crashes or damage). In the end, High Stakes is just more fun.
  6. PSX Nation
    90
    If you are a fan of the series, NFS: HS is the second best in the series second only to the original 3DO version.
  7. IGN
    88
    It's got tremendous competitive spirit, and enough changes (10 international tracks) and alterations to earn hard-core gamers' respect.
  8. GameSpot
    87
    The inability to call for backup in two-player hot pursuit games is completely unforgivable and keeps the gameplay score from being even higher.
  9. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    86
    Put your high-priced cars on the line in this racing sequel. [Jan 2004, p.188]
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  10. Cincinnati Enquirer
    80
    The game slows down when the track is full of cars. Plus, you might find your attention distracted by an over-detailed landscape that washes out the course ahead.
  11. Hot Games
    80
    It's more evolutionary than revolutionary, really.
  12. Adrenaline Vault
    80
    The High Stakes mode of play is rather difficult to pull off most of the time, and virtually impossible unless you know someone else with the game.
  13. Cheat Code Central Platinum
    80
    Fans of NFS3 will rejoice, but be warned that this game is an almost seamless continuation of the last game.
  14. Games Domain
    70
    It doesn't do a lot radically new, but it does present a decent racing challenge and an excellent two player mode.
  15. All Game Guide
    60
    It seems almost threadbare in places due to the lack of attention in the physics, design, and multi-player aspects. Casual racing fans will probably get a kick out of it, but the hardcore gamers will be left wanting more.

Awards & Rankings

16
#16 Best PS1 Game of 1999
21
#21 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 1999
19
#19 Most Shared PS1 Game of 1999

User Reviews

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User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 75 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 60 out of 75
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 75
  3. Negative: 4 out of 75
  1. 2ksnipefest
    Dec 27, 2013
    10
    The best money can buy as it is for a racing game for ps1. Test drive 6 is a close 2nd. I spent hours on celtic ruins avoiding the policeThe best money can buy as it is for a racing game for ps1. Test drive 6 is a close 2nd. I spent hours on celtic ruins avoiding the police spike strips and road blocks. Driving around at more than 100 mph and driving great looking vehicles. Porche's lamborghini's, ferrari's, and the awesome orange mclaren what a prize it was to win it all. I would even go as far to say that this is the most important need for speed ever created.… Full Review »
  2. Ehsan_Nasrabadi
    Jul 30, 2023
    10
    The best game in the history of the Need for Speed ​​series. The variety of cars amazes the player with the graphics and gameplay of the carsThe best game in the history of the Need for Speed ​​series. The variety of cars amazes the player with the graphics and gameplay of the cars along with competitive and realistic races. Exceptional voice acting along with various maps and masterpiece music make this version a work of art.… Full Review »
  3. vastly_local
    May 25, 2023
    10
    This game is something truly special. Classic Need for Speed flaunting its best characteristics: fancy cars, good progression system, exoticThis game is something truly special. Classic Need for Speed flaunting its best characteristics: fancy cars, good progression system, exotic tracks, brilliant soundtrack and pissy cops. Good stuff and great addition to a PS1 library!… Full Review »
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