How to Drift Like a Pro in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit: Tips and Tricks for Success
What To Know
- Drifting is essentially a controlled loss of traction, where the rear wheels lose grip and slide sideways while the front wheels maintain a grip on the road.
- Steer in the opposite direction of the drift to control the slide and keep the car aligned with the corner.
- Find a safe and empty space, either in the game’s free roam mode or on a dedicated drift track, and experiment with different techniques.
Need for Speed Hot Pursuit is a game that’s all about high-speed chases and adrenaline-pumping action. But what if you want to take your driving skills to the next level and master the art of drifting? Drifting adds a whole new dimension to the game, allowing you to navigate corners with style and precision, leaving your opponents in the dust.
This guide will delve into the intricacies of how to drift in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit, covering everything from basic techniques to advanced maneuvers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a rookie racer, this comprehensive guide will help you become a drifting master.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Drifting
Drifting is essentially a controlled loss of traction, where the rear wheels lose grip and slide sideways while the front wheels maintain a grip on the road. To achieve this, you need to understand the core mechanics of drifting:
- Throttle Control: The key to successful drifting lies in precise throttle control. You need to maintain a delicate balance between accelerating and braking, allowing the rear wheels to lose grip while keeping the front wheels engaged.
- Steering Input: Steering plays a crucial role in initiating and maintaining a drift. You’ll need to steer in the opposite direction of the drift to control the slide.
- Handbrake: The handbrake is your best friend when it comes to initiating a drift. A quick pull of the handbrake will send the rear wheels into a skid, setting you up for a controlled slide.
- Weight Transfer: The weight of the car shifts as you accelerate, brake, and steer. Understanding how weight transfer affects the car’s handling is essential for mastering drifting.
Choosing the Right Car
Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. Some cars are naturally more prone to drifting due to their weight distribution, power output, and suspension tuning. For beginners, it’s recommended to start with cars that have a good balance of power and handling, such as:
- Porsche 911 GT3 RS: This car offers a good balance of power and handling, making it a great choice for learning the basics of drifting.
- Nissan 370Z: The 370Z is a popular choice for drifting due to its rear-wheel drive configuration and agile handling.
- Ford Mustang GT: The Mustang GT is a powerful muscle car that can be quite fun to drift, but it may require more practice to master.
Learning the Basics: The Initiation
The first step to drifting is learning how to initiate a slide. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Approach the Corner: As you approach the corner, slow down to a reasonable speed.
2. Steering Input: Turn the steering wheel slightly in the direction of the corner.
3. Handbrake: Pull the handbrake sharply to initiate a skid.
4. Throttle Control: As the rear wheels lose grip, gently apply the throttle to maintain the slide.
5. Steering Adjustment: Steer in the opposite direction of the drift to control the slide and keep the car aligned with the corner.
Mastering the Art of Drifting: Advanced Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced drifting techniques:
- Counter Steering: Counter steering is crucial for controlling the drift. As the car slides, steer in the opposite direction to maintain the slide and prevent the car from spinning out.
- Throttle Adjustment: The throttle is your primary tool for controlling the slide’s intensity. A gentle application of the throttle will keep the car sliding smoothly, while increasing the throttle will make the slide more aggressive.
- Clutch Control: The clutch can be used to initiate and control the drift. By slipping the clutch, you can induce a controlled skid without using the handbrake.
- Drifting Through Corners: As you become more confident, you can try drifting through entire corners. This requires precise throttle control, steering input, and a good understanding of weight transfer.
Practicing Your Skills
The key to mastering drifting is practice. Find a safe and empty space, either in the game’s free roam mode or on a dedicated drift track, and experiment with different techniques. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they’re part of the learning process.
The Final Stretch: Drifting Like a Pro
With consistent practice and a good understanding of the techniques, you’ll be able to drift like a pro in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit. Remember to always prioritize safety and control, and enjoy the thrill of drifting!
Beyond the Basics: Tips for Success
- Use Visual Cues: Pay attention to the car’s movements, such as the angle of the wheels and the position of the rear end, to gauge the intensity of the drift.
- Practice in Different Conditions: Drifting in different weather conditions and on various surfaces will help you adapt to different scenarios.
- Experiment with Different Cars: Try drifting with different cars to find the ones that best suit your driving style.
- Watch Professional Drifters: Studying professional drifters’ techniques can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I drift with any car in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit?
A: While you can technically drift with any car, some cars are better suited for drifting than others. Cars with rear-wheel drive, a good power-to-weight ratio, and a responsive steering system are generally better for drifting.
Q: What is the best setting for drifting in Need for Speed Hot Pursuit?
A: There’s no one-size-fits-all setting for drifting. Experiment with different settings, such as steering sensitivity, traction control, and stability control, to find what works best for you.
Q: How can I improve my drifting skills?
A: The best way to improve your drifting skills is through practice. Find a safe and empty space and experiment with different techniques. Watch professional drifters to learn from their techniques and mistakes.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid while drifting?
A: Common mistakes include over-steering, over-accelerating, and not using the handbrake properly. Practice and patience are key to avoiding these mistakes.
Q: Is drifting only for experienced players?
A: While drifting can be challenging, it’s a skill that can be learned by anyone with the right guidance and practice. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun!