Unlock the Secrets of Drifting in Need for Speed for PS4: A Step-by-Step Guide

Need for Speed is a renowned racing game series that allows you to experience the thrill of high-speed racing and exhilarating drifts. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, mastering the art of drifting in Need for Speed on PS4 can be a rewarding and exciting challenge. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of drifting, covering essential techniques, car setup tips, and practice methods to help you become a drifting master.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Drifting

Drifting is essentially controlled oversteer, where your car’s rear wheels lose traction and slide sideways while maintaining a controlled trajectory. It’s a technique that requires precision, timing, and a deep understanding of your car’s handling.

Key Elements of Drifting:

• Handbrake: The handbrake is your primary tool for initiating drifts. By applying the handbrake, you transfer weight to the rear wheels, causing them to lose traction and slide.
• Throttle Control: Maintaining a steady throttle input is crucial for maintaining and controlling your drift. Too much throttle can cause you to spin out, while too little will result in the drift ending prematurely.
• Steering Input: Steering input plays a vital role in controlling the direction and angle of your drift. You’ll need to use precise steering adjustments to maintain your line and prevent the car from spinning out.
• Weight Transfer: Understanding weight transfer is essential for successful drifting. By applying the handbrake and steering, you shift the car’s weight to the rear, inducing oversteer.

Choosing the Right Car for Drifting

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. Some vehicles are naturally better suited for drifting due to their weight distribution, power delivery, and suspension characteristics.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a car for drifting:

• Rear-wheel drive: Rear-wheel drive vehicles are generally preferred for drifting, as they allow for easier weight transfer and controlled oversteer.
• Power: A car with sufficient power is essential for maintaining momentum and control during drifts.
• Weight distribution: A balanced weight distribution, with more weight towards the rear, aids in initiating and maintaining drifts.
• Suspension: Adjustable suspension allows you to fine-tune your car’s handling characteristics to optimize it for drifting.

Popular Drift Cars in Need for Speed:

• Nissan 240SX: A classic drift car with a balanced weight distribution and responsive handling.
• Mazda RX-7: Known for its powerful rotary engine and agile handling.
• Toyota AE86: A legendary drift car with a nimble chassis and a reputation for being fun to drive.
• BMW M3: A powerful and capable sports car that can be tuned for drifting.

Setting Up Your Car for Drifting

Once you’ve chosen your drift car, it’s time to optimize its setup for maximum drifting performance.

Car Setup Tips:

• Differential: Adjust the differential settings to control how much power is sent to each rear wheel. A more open differential will allow for easier oversteer and smoother drifts.
• Suspension: Lowering the ride height and increasing the spring stiffness can improve the car’s stability and responsiveness.
• Tires: Use soft compound tires with a high grip coefficient to maintain control during drifts.
• Brakes: Ensure your brakes are in good condition and have sufficient stopping power to control your drifts.
• Aerodynamics: Consider using a rear wing or spoiler to improve traction and stability at high speeds.

Master the Art of Initiating Drifts

Initiating a drift is the first step towards mastering the technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to initiate a drift in Need for Speed:

1. Choose a corner: Select a corner with a wide entry and exit to give you ample space to practice.
2. Approach the corner: As you approach the corner, brake early and smoothly to slow down to your desired speed.
3. Apply the handbrake: Just before entering the corner, quickly and decisively pull the handbrake. The amount of time you hold the handbrake will determine the intensity of the drift.
4. Counter-steer: As the rear end starts to slide, quickly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the drift to control the car’s trajectory.
5. Maintain throttle: Once the drift is initiated, maintain a steady throttle input to keep the car sliding.

Maintaining and Controlling Your Drift

Once you’ve successfully initiated a drift, the real challenge lies in maintaining control and executing a smooth, controlled slide.

Tips for Maintaining a Drift:

• Steering adjustments: Use small, precise steering inputs to maintain your line and prevent the car from spinning out.
• Throttle control: Maintain a steady throttle input to avoid losing momentum or spinning out.
• Weight transfer: Use the steering wheel and throttle to shift the car’s weight to control the drift angle.
• Practice: The more you practice, the better you’ll become at maintaining control and executing smooth drifts.

Practice Makes Perfect: Drifting Techniques and Tips

Drifting is a skill that requires constant practice and refinement. Here are some practice techniques and tips to help you improve your drifting skills in Need for Speed:

• Practice in a safe environment: Start by practicing in a closed-off area or a track with wide corners to avoid collisions.
• Experiment with different cars: Try out different cars to find one that suits your driving style and preferences.
• Focus on smooth inputs: Avoid jerky movements and sudden changes in throttle or steering input.
• Learn from your mistakes: If you spin out, analyze what went wrong and try to correct it next time.
• Watch professional drift videos: Observe how professional drivers initiate, maintain, and control their drifts.
• Join online communities: Connect with other Need for Speed players and share tips and strategies.

The Evolution of Drifting: From Beginner to Expert

Mastering the art of drifting in Need for Speed is a journey that involves continuous learning and improvement. As you progress, you’ll discover more advanced techniques and strategies to elevate your drifting skills.

Beginner Drifters: Focus on understanding the fundamentals of drifting, initiating smooth slides, and maintaining control.

Intermediate Drifters: Experiment with different drifting techniques, such as handbrake turns, clutch kicks, and power slides.

Expert Drifters: Develop advanced skills such as tandem drifting, drifting through tight corners, and performing complex maneuvers.

Drifting Beyond the Game: Real-World Applications

While Need for Speed provides a safe and virtual environment to practice drifting, the skills you develop can translate to real-world driving scenarios. Understanding car control, weight transfer, and throttle management can enhance your driving skills and improve your overall awareness on the road.

The Final Frontier: Drifting Mastery

Drifting in Need for Speed is a captivating and rewarding pursuit. By mastering the fundamentals, practicing diligently, and embracing the challenges, you can unlock the full potential of your drifting skills. Remember, patience, persistence, and a passion for drifting are key to achieving mastery in this exhilarating aspect of the Need for Speed universe.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What is the best car for drifting in Need for Speed?

A: There isn’t a single “best” car, as it depends on personal preference and driving style. However, some popular choices include the Nissan 240SX, Mazda RX-7, Toyota AE86, and BMW M3.

Q: How do I adjust the differential settings for drifting?

A: You can adjust the differential settings in the car’s tuning menu. A more open differential will allow for easier oversteer and smoother drifts.

Q: What are some common mistakes beginners make when drifting?

A: Common mistakes include applying too much throttle, oversteering, and not using the handbrake effectively.

Q: How can I improve my drifting skills faster?

A: Practice consistently, experiment with different cars and setups, and watch professional drift videos to gain insights.

Q: Is it possible to drift in Need for Speed without the handbrake?

A: Yes, you can initiate drifts using steering input and throttle control alone. However, using the handbrake is generally more effective and allows for more precise control.