Take Your Racing Skills to the Next Level: How to Drift in Need for Speed Unbound

Need for Speed Unbound is a high-octane racing game that offers a thrilling experience both on and off the track. One of the most exhilarating techniques you can master in Unbound is drifting. This dynamic driving style allows you to navigate corners with style and precision, leaving your opponents in the dust. But mastering the art of drifting in Need for Speed Unbound requires a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics and a bit of practice.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential techniques and tips to help you become a drifting master in Need for Speed Unbound. From understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques, we’ll cover everything you need to know to conquer the streets with your stylish drifts.

The Fundamentals of Drifting

Drifting is all about controlling your car’s oversteer, allowing it to slide sideways while maintaining control. To initiate a drift in Need for Speed Unbound, you’ll need to understand the key elements:

• The Handbrake: The handbrake is your primary tool for initiating a drift. A quick pull of the handbrake will transfer weight to the rear wheels, causing the car to lose traction and start sliding.
• Steering: Steering is crucial for maintaining your drift. Once you’ve initiated the slide, you’ll need to steer counter-steer to keep the car moving in the desired direction.
• Throttle Control: The throttle is your power source for maintaining and extending your drifts. By carefully applying and releasing the throttle, you can control the car’s speed and angle of the drift.
• Clutch (Manual Transmission): If you’re playing with a manual transmission, the clutch can be used to control the car’s speed and help maintain a consistent drift angle.

Choosing the Right Car

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. Some vehicles are naturally more prone to oversteer and easier to drift than others. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a car for drifting:

• Rear-Wheel Drive: Rear-wheel drive cars are generally preferred for drifting as they are easier to break the rear wheels loose.
• Weight Distribution: Cars with a rear-biased weight distribution tend to be more responsive to drifting.
• Power: A powerful engine will allow you to maintain momentum and extend your drifts for longer periods.
• Suspension Settings: Adjusting your car’s suspension settings can significantly impact its handling and drifting capabilities. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.

Mastering the Basic Drift

Now that you understand the fundamentals and have chosen a suitable car, let’s dive into the basic techniques of drifting:

1. Approach the Corner: As you approach a corner, slow down to a speed that allows you to control the car’s slide.
2. Initiate the Drift: Use the handbrake to initiate the drift, applying a quick and decisive pull.
3. Counter-Steering: As the car starts to slide, steer in the opposite direction of the drift to maintain control. This is crucial for keeping the car moving in the desired direction.
4. Throttle Control: Use the throttle to maintain the drift angle and adjust the car’s speed. You can also use the throttle to extend the drift by applying power gradually.
5. Exit the Drift: As you approach the exit of the corner, release the handbrake and steer the car back into the desired lane.

Advanced Drift Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced drifting techniques to elevate your drifting game:

• Power Slides: Power slides are initiated by using the throttle to maintain the drift angle while applying a slight amount of handbrake. This technique allows you to maintain a consistent drift angle and exit the corner smoothly.
• Heel-Toe Technique: The heel-toe technique involves using the heel of your foot to release the throttle while simultaneously using your toes to apply the brakes. This allows for smoother transitions between throttle and braking, resulting in more controlled drifts.
• Clutch Control (Manual Transmission): In manual transmission, you can use the clutch to control the car’s speed and maintain a consistent drift angle. By releasing the clutch slightly, you can create a small amount of slip, which can help maintain the drift.
• Drifting in Reverse: Reverse drifting involves initiating a drift while driving in reverse. This technique can be challenging but rewarding, allowing you to showcase your skills and maneuver through tight spaces.

Tips for Improving Your Drifting Skills

Here are some practical tips to help you improve your drifting skills in Need for Speed Unbound:

• Practice Makes Perfect: The best way to improve your drifting skills is through consistent practice. Spend time in the practice mode or on empty tracks to experiment with different techniques.
• Experiment with Car Settings: Adjust your car’s suspension settings, tire pressure, and other parameters to find the optimal configuration for drifting.
• Learn from Others: Watch videos of professional drifters and pay attention to their techniques. Observe their car control, throttle usage, and steering inputs.
• Join Online Drifting Communities: Connect with other Need for Speed Unbound players who enjoy drifting. Share tips, strategies, and compete in online drift events.
• Use Visual Aids: Pay attention to your car’s visual cues, such as the smoke from the tires, to get a better understanding of the drift angle and car’s behavior.

The Final Drift: Mastering the Art of Style

Drifting in Need for Speed Unbound is not just about mastering the techniques; it’s also about expressing your personal style. Experiment with different drift angles, car customization, and driving lines to create unique and visually appealing drifts.

As you advance your drifting skills, you’ll find yourself pushing the boundaries of car control and achieving a level of mastery that will leave your opponents in awe. Embrace the challenge, practice diligently, and you’ll soon be drifting like a true Need for Speed Unbound legend.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: What are the best cars for drifting in Need for Speed Unbound?

A: While many cars can be used for drifting, some stand out for their handling and power. Popular choices include the BMW M3 E46, Nissan 240SX, and Toyota Supra MKIV.

Q: How do I adjust my car’s settings for drifting?

A: You can adjust suspension settings, tire pressure, and other parameters to optimize your car for drifting. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.

Q: What are some tips for maintaining a consistent drift angle?

A: Use the handbrake to initiate the drift, counter-steer to maintain control, and use the throttle to adjust the speed and angle of the drift.

Q: How do I exit a drift smoothly?

A: Release the handbrake gradually as you approach the exit of the corner, steer the car back into the desired lane, and use the throttle to control the car’s speed.

Q: What are some advanced drifting techniques to try?

A: Power slides, heel-toe techniques, clutch control (manual transmission), and reverse drifting are some advanced techniques you can explore to elevate your drifting game.