Master the Art of Drifting: How to Drift Better in NFS Unbound
What To Know
- Whether you’re looking to conquer the streets in style or simply want to improve your drifting skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to become a slide king.
- You’ll need to apply and adjust the throttle to maintain a consistent drift angle and prevent the car from spinning out.
- Engage the handbrake while turning into a corner, and then gradually release it to maintain a drift.
Need for Speed Unbound has taken the racing world by storm, offering a vibrant, stylish, and adrenaline-pumping experience. But mastering the art of drifting in this game can be a challenge, especially for newcomers. Whether you’re looking to conquer the streets in style or simply want to improve your drifting skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to become a slide king.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Drifting
Drifting in Need for Speed Unbound is all about controlling a controlled loss of traction. It’s a dance between the car’s physics, your steering input, and the throttle. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
- Steering: The steering wheel is your primary tool for initiating and maintaining a drift. It’s crucial to use smooth, controlled inputs to prevent oversteering or losing control.
- Throttle: The throttle is your partner in crime. You’ll need to apply and adjust the throttle to maintain a consistent drift angle and prevent the car from spinning out.
- Handbrake: The handbrake is your secret weapon, allowing you to initiate drifts quickly and effectively. However, overuse can lead to losing control, so use it strategically.
Essential Drifting Techniques for Unbound
Now that you understand the basics, let’s dive into some essential techniques that will elevate your drifting game:
- Initiating a Drift:
- Handbrake Technique: This is the most common method. Engage the handbrake while turning into a corner, and then gradually release it to maintain a drift.
- Throttle-Steering Technique: This technique involves using the throttle to initiate the drift. Apply a burst of throttle, then quickly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction, and you’ll be sliding.
- Maintaining a Drift:
- Counter-Steering: This involves steering in the opposite direction of your drift to maintain control. It’s a delicate balance that requires practice.
- Throttle Control: Adjusting the throttle is key to maintaining a consistent drift angle. Too much throttle can cause you to spin out, while too little will make you lose momentum.
- Drifting in a Straight Line:
- The “Power Slide”: This technique involves maintaining a drift while driving in a straight line. It’s useful for showing off your skills or for navigating tight spaces. To achieve this, you’ll need to use a combination of throttle control, counter-steering, and the handbrake.
Choosing the Right Car for Drifting
Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. Some cars are naturally better suited for drifting than others due to their weight distribution, engine power, and overall handling characteristics. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a car:
- Rear-Wheel Drive: This is the gold standard for drifting. Rear-wheel-drive cars are more prone to sliding, making them ideal for controlled drifts.
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: A good power-to-weight ratio allows you to easily initiate and maintain drifts. Look for cars with powerful engines and relatively light bodies.
- Suspension Tuning: Adjusting your car’s suspension can make a big difference in its handling characteristics. Experiment with different suspension settings to find what works best for your drifting style.
Mastering the Art of Drifting on Different Surfaces
Drifting on different surfaces can be a challenge, requiring different techniques and adjustments. Here’s a breakdown of how to drift effectively on various surfaces:
- Asphalt: This is the most common and forgiving surface for drifting. It provides a good balance of grip and slip, making it easier to control your slides.
- Gravel: Drifting on gravel is much more challenging due to its lack of grip. You’ll need to be more cautious with your throttle and steering inputs.
- Snow and Ice: These surfaces are extremely slippery, making drifting a high-risk, high-reward endeavor. You’ll need to be very precise with your inputs and be prepared for sudden changes in traction.
Practice Makes Perfect: Refining Your Drifting Skills
Drifting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Here are some tips for improving your drifting skills:
- Practice in Free Roam: Use the game’s free roam mode to experiment with different drifting techniques and find cars that suit your style.
- Focus on Control: Don’t be afraid to slow down and focus on maintaining control of your car during drifts. It’s better to drift slowly and smoothly than to spin out uncontrollably.
- Watch Professional Drifting Videos: Observe how professional drifters execute their slides and learn from their techniques.
- Join Online Drifting Communities: Connect with other Need for Speed Unbound players who enjoy drifting and share tips and tricks.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Drifting Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, you can start exploring advanced techniques like:
- Clutch Kicks: This technique involves quickly engaging and disengaging the clutch to initiate a drift. It’s a more advanced technique that requires precise timing and coordination.
- E-brake Slides: This technique involves using the handbrake to initiate a drift and then using the throttle and steering to maintain it. It’s a versatile technique that can be used in various situations.
- Drifting into a Corner: This technique involves using a drift to navigate a corner more smoothly and quickly. It’s a challenging but rewarding technique that can significantly improve your lap times.
The Final Drift: Your Journey to Drifting Mastery
Drifting in Need for Speed Unbound is an exhilarating and rewarding experience. By understanding the fundamentals, mastering essential techniques, and constantly practicing, you can transform from a novice to a skilled drifter. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Embrace the challenge, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun!
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What are the best cars for drifting in Need for Speed Unbound?
A: There are many great drift cars in the game, but some popular choices include the Nissan 240SX, the Toyota AE86, and the Mazda RX-7. These cars offer a good balance of power, weight distribution, and handling characteristics that are ideal for drifting.
Q: How can I improve my drift initiation?
A: Practice initiating drifts with both the handbrake and throttle-steering techniques. Experiment with different car settings, such as suspension and tire pressure, to find what works best for you.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when drifting?
A: Overusing the handbrake, oversteering, and not adjusting the throttle correctly are common mistakes. Focus on smooth, controlled inputs and practice maintaining a consistent drift angle.
Q: How can I practice drifting in a safe environment?
A: Use the game’s free roam mode to practice your drifting skills. You can also try out different tracks and surfaces to challenge yourself.
Q: What are some tips for drifting on different surfaces?
A: On asphalt, use a combination of throttle control and counter-steering to maintain your drift. On gravel, be more cautious with your inputs and avoid oversteering. On snow and ice, be extremely precise with your inputs and be prepared for sudden changes in traction.