How Slipstream Works In Need For Speed Heat
We show you how to use slipstream and other cars to your advantage.
Racing in Need For Speed Heat has a big emphasis on real-world physics, whether it’s wet ground, the impact of two cars colliding, or the slipstream caused by speeding vehicles. The last of these is a big part of successful racing and numerous in-game challenges, and we’re here to show you how to make the most of it.
What is Slipstream in Need For Speed Heat?
Slipstream is a real-world phenomenon that’s been translated into the gameplay of Need for Speed, in which any fast moving object basically creates a pull of air behind it. If you’ve ever been at a train station and felt the rush of wind as a train flies past without stopping, that’s slipstream in action, pulling dead leaves and crisp packets behind it.
Need for Speed implements it in much the same way, having fast-moving cars create air tunnels behind them. These air tunnels aren’t visible, but nonetheless gain strength and size as the car speeds up, usually beginning at about 50 MPH and ramping up from there.
How Do I Use Slipstream?
Slipstream is a helpful way to close the gap with a car ahead of you. Simply put, the pull of the air left by a speeding car can give you a useful speed boost when you drive right behind it. As you get closer and closer, your acceleration should increase substantially, making it a lot easier to catch up.
Once you’re right behind the car, try to turn out and overtake, using the push of the slipstream for that extra notch of speed. It’s not easy, but if done correctly you should have taken the lead.
Can Others Use My Slipstream?
Yep, and that’s something to be aware of, especially in online races where players will be looking for that additional advantage, or even in police chases where they might use it to catch you. Remember that slipstream occurs right behind your car, so use your reverse view (back on R3) to see if anybody’s trying to latch on to you, then try to stay mobile so they can’t stay there easily. Swerve as much as you dare, take corners sharply, and try to stay in front of your opponents if they move to overtake you.
Now that you know the ins-and-outs of slipstream, why not head over to our guide on making money fast, in which slipstream plays a big part? Or if you're looking for a zen pasttime, take a look at our guide on the game's many collectibles and the rewards you can get from them. Or at the other end of the scale, take a look at our explanation of how to annoy and escape Palm City's police force.