user wants a long article about "Need for Speed: Payback". I need to gather comprehensive information covering various aspects of the game. I'll follow the search plan outlined in the system prompt. The plan has six rounds. I'll start with Round One, performing the first five searches as specified. have gathered initial search results. Now I need to proceed with Round Two, performing the next five searches. have completed Round Two. Now I need to proceed with Round Three. The plan suggests opening specific pages for more detailed information. I will open the Wikipedia pages for the game and for the series, as well as the Wikiwand page for Need for Speed: Payback. have opened the Wikipedia page for Need for Speed: Payback. Now I need to continue with Round Three by opening other relevant pages. The search plan suggests opening the IGN review, the GamesRadar review, and the Destructoid review. I will also look for the PC Gamer and Eurogamer reviews. have gathered a significant amount of information. Now I need to continue with Round Three by opening other relevant pages, such as the PC performance review, the car list, the multiplayer features, the DLC details, and the comparison with Forza Horizon 3. have gathered a substantial amount of information from various sources. Now I need to consider if there are any gaps. The user might also be interested in information about the game's development, critical analysis, sales figures, or future of the series. I should also look for any retrospective articles or recent mentions. I'll perform a final search for "Need for Speed Payback retrospective" to see if there are any articles looking back at the game. have gathered a wide range of sources. Now I need to synthesize this information into a long article. The article should cover the game's plot, gameplay mechanics, the controversial speed card and loot box system, critical reception, open world, customization, performance, and its legacy. I will structure the article with clear headings and subheadings, citing the sources appropriately. Now I will proceed to write the article. titles in the long-running franchise have sparked as much debate as Need for Speed: Payback . Released in 2017 as the series' 23rd installment, it sought to revolutionize the experience with a blockbuster, action-packed storyline set in an open world, redefining what a racing game could be.
However, the gameplay loop is where Payback faced significant backlash. The game utilizes a . Instead of winning a race and unlocking a specific part, you are awarded "Speed Cards" with random stats (Speed, Acceleration, Nitrous, etc.). To upgrade your car to the next "level," you must gamble on receiving better cards. Need for Speed- Payback