If you are reading this and you dont have this game, or haven't played it before, rent it. I've played all of the midnight club games, and this one wins for realism, graphics, and controlled gameplay. You actually have to be a GOOD driver in this game to win, you just dont blast nitrous every two seconds like the old games. I went out and bought this game the day after i rented it. I bought it about three months ago, and i still have about 40 percent left in the game to beat, which is great. They could've added some choppers or more motorcyles to the selection of the game, but the cars and customization make up for that. I love this game, and dont listen to the idiots that hate this game, because they just suck at this game, you actually have to try. I get really into this game, and get really angry when i lose, because it reels you in, Especially if you play in the cockpit view. A must buy, if you are looking for a racing game.

For those of you who played Grand Theft Auto 4, there's no need to fear that the controlling of the cars are as painful as it was in that game because it's not. The controls are simplistic enough where you'll learn to use everything effectively in the first hour or so. The problem for many people won't be the controls or anything else but... the difficulty. This game has such a HUGE learning curve compared to other racers. You may seem overwhelmed by how perfect the computer drives at first, but know your surroundings and use the shortcuts to your advantage. Soon enough, you'll be collecting money and earning rep around Los Angeles.

Overall, this is definitely one of THE best looking games for the 360. You'll love cruising around for hours with friends online, playing capture the flag or even regular races. As I said though, this game is NOT for the weak. If you not that great at racing games, stick to the green and yellow races. The orange and red races require such precision that frustration is guaranteed.