 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Shift 2: Unleashed
- Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Windows
- Price: $59.99
- Genre: Racing
Common Sense Media says
Realistic racing sim with jarring crashes.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Shift 2: Unleashed is a straightforward racing simulation from the Need for Speed series of games. The game's first-person perspective delivers a very authentic experience, right down to jarring crashes that look quite violent. However, causing wrecks doesn't go unpunished, as it often costs players the victory. If you have a teen that is just learning to drive, you may want to consider a study that suggests that playing some racing games can lead to taking more driving risks in real life. It’s worth noting as well that consumerism plays a role via the game’s licensed cars; and that the game has open chat for those playing online so kids may hear things that are inappropriate.
What's it about?
SHIFT 2: UNLEASHED is a realistic racing simulation based on the FIA GT1 world championship series. Players compete in a series of events featuring several races en route to becoming a racing champion. Dozens of cars are available from automakers such as Toyota, Honda, Ford, BMW, and Lamborghini. Players start out with a trial lap and race to determine the difficulty and computer assistance (such as auto-braking) players need. They can then begin entering pro races. Throughout their career, players earn experience points to unlock new cars and equipment. They also have their results tallied in an online Autolog that gauges how well they perform against friends online.
Is it any good?
Shift 2 is an incredibly beautiful, authentic racing title. It rewards players for driving with precision and skill instead of aggression. Crashes really pack a powerful impact, as players watch the screen shake and blur. Controls are easy to pick up, but prepare to practice often to learn how to master corners and other racing techniques. The Autolog also adds another avenue for players to measure their skills. Overall, Shift 2 is a really strong title for players who love racing games.
Online interaction: The game features online races with open chat. This means that kids could potentially run into others online who express language and ideas unsuitable for kids.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how to manage video game playing in their life. How do you determine how much time to spend playing vs. doing other things like reading and exercising?
How does this game compare to real-world racing? Does it make you want to become a race car driver?
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AGE
Lot more difficult than last time, still fun.
Shift 2 Unleashed, isn't violent but it is one of the most difficult racing games I've played, if you play it properly, not play it safe. By play it safe, I mean play on easy with all the assists on. It is very hard to crash doing that, By play it properly, I mean on Medium-Hard with no assists, and no clue when to brake. This game isn't mature, it's got a lot of crashing but no blood shown, no people dying. Just a very smashed up car. So it's good for over 11+ if you are going to play it properly, or with a few assists.
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AGE
EPIC FAIL. DISAPPOINTING
This game was very boring. The first Shift game was much better. This game tried to hard and had terrible graphics.
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AGE
Speed
It's Need For Speed's answer to GT5. Avoid the barriers unless you want a good bashing.
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| Topics: | sports and martial arts |
| Platforms: | Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Windows |
| Available online? | Available online |
| Genre: | Racing |
| Developer: | Electronic Arts |
| Release date: | March 29, 2011 |
| Price: | $59.99 |
| ESRB rating: | E10+ for Mild Suggestive Themes, Mild Violence |
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