Not too long ago, we tracked down some information pertaining to the latest game in the Need for Speed series. Entitled Need For Speed: Undercover, the new title promises to be a return to the roots of the series, featuring exotic race cars, 'break-neck cop chases' and 'spectacular highway battles'.

Today, we've got a bunch of news regarding Need For Speed: Undercover. The first of these is in the form of some new screenshots. After that, we've got a new trailer, and some news regarding a Hollywood star that will feature in the game's live action sequences between races. If that isn't enough, we've also got a release date!



Bill Harrison, executive producer of Need For Speed: Undercover, explains the setting of the game:

Need for Speed Undercover features a deep and engaging story of spectacular Hollywoodstyle live-action that will transport players into the fictional world of the Tri-City Bay Area.

Games taking inspiration from Hollywood appears to be an ever increasing trend within the video game world, and the premise of Need For Speed: Undercover has made this very clear.

Acting under instruction from "seductive handler" Chase Linh, a Federal Agent, the player will take on "dangerous jobs", including (of course) taking part in races in a bid to dismantle a ruthless international crim syndicate. Linh's character will be played by Hollywood star Maggie Q, who has had roles in films such as Mission Impossible III, Live Free or Die Hard, and Balls of Fury.

Harrison noted that Q's involvement in the live action sequences of the game would "keep players engaged in between 180-mile an hour races." Q remarked on the opportunity to contribute to a video game:

I was so impressed by the scope and quality of the overall production that goes into a video game these days. It was like any other day on a Hollywood set; I felt right at home.

So - what of the actual game play? The new trailer reveals little - but does offer a glimpse into the story driven aspect of the game.

Need for Speed Undercover 'Detective' Trailer

Need For Speed: Undercover will launch in Australia on the 20th of November, with a release in the US on the 18th. It will be available on every current platform, and will also see a release on the Playstation 2 and mobile phones.