Our first impressions were that the graphics look outstanding on our 1080P HD set. The character models look good, but its the scenery, and the map that really make this game come alive! As you begin a race, you’ll also notice how it zooms in from the entire LA map, to the exact location you’ll be racing. While this helps get you in the racing mood, it is actually a loading screen in disguise.

To complete any racing game, it has to have a good soundtrack, and nothing puts us in the racing mood then hearing Young Jeezy’s “Put On,” despite the fact that it is the censored version of the song. The game also has several other rap, and rock songs that you are sure to enjoy.

If we need to point to the best part of the game, it would easily be multiplayer and how well the game is integrated with Xbox Live. When we mentioned no loading screens, we seriously found ourselves in a game within 15 seconds, and the fact that some people can watch while others in the party race is pretty convenient. The entire city is open in multiplayer as well.

Graphics: The game simply looks great, and we also like the “slow motion” crash sequence

Sounds: The sounds are also realistic, hearing the different roars of the engines, cars honking, and the debris as you crash into the wall. Our only complaint would be the lack of a “popping” noise when getting into a head on collision at 140 mph.

Xbox Live: Online multiplayer, spectator mode, support for 16 players, and the Rockstar Social Club, need we say more?

Some minor facts and details:

Time Played: 3 hour, 36 minutes

Achievements Unlocked: 2 out of 45

Currently Driving: 1998 240SX (same car I started with)

Best Experience: Ending the race, while colliding with a bus, and winning. Plus, we also really like the customization aspects to the game.

Biggest Complaint: The difficulty so far – the AI drivers cheat, and catch up very quickly when your in the lead

Will You Continue Playing: Of course, the game is still fun, the achievements take effort to earn, and our goal is to find all the collectables (currently have 12/60). Also, did we mention the great multiplayer.

It is also worth noting that you CAN unlock collectables when playing on multiplayer!