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Difference between revisions of "Need for Speed: Underground 2"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
 
(31 intermediate revisions by 14 users not shown)
Line 13: Line 13:
 
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|need-for-speed-underground-2|79}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|need-for-speed-underground-2|79}}
 
|taxonomy    =
 
|taxonomy    =
−
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, Sponsored }}
+
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
Line 37: Line 37:
  
 
{{Introduction
 
{{Introduction
−
|introduction      =  
+
|introduction      = '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a {{Glossary:singleplayer}} and {{Glossary:multiplayer}} {{Glossary:racing}} game developed by [[Company:EA Black Box|EA Black Box]] and published by [[Company:Electronic Arts|Electronic Arts]]. It is the eighth entry in the ''[[Series:Need for Speed|Need for Speed]]'' series and the second entry in the ''[[Series:Need for Speed: Underground|Need for Speed: Underground]]'' duology.
  
−
|release history  =  
+
Like the previous game, ''Underground 2'' centers around the import racing/tuning scenes and features JDM cars. It is also the first game in the series to have an open world, where players can drive freely around the city. The game's career mode's story takes places six months after the event of ''[[Need for Speed: Underground|Underground]]'' and focus on an unnamed racer (the same racer players had played as in ''Underground'') as they race in the fictional city of Bayview.
 +
 
 +
|release history  = It was released in North America on November 9, 2004, followed by Europe and Japan releases on November 19, 2004 and December 22, 2004 respectively.
  
 
|current state    =
 
|current state    =
Line 48: Line 50:
 
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | disc check, key | {{DRM|SafeDisc|v4}}. Has both a 2 CD and a DVD version. |  | Windows }}
 
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | disc check, key | {{DRM|SafeDisc|v4}}. Has both a 2 CD and a DVD version. |  | Windows }}
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|SafeDisc|V4}}.
+
{{ii}} A compilation<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://nfs.fandom.com/wiki/Need_for_Speed:_Collector%27s_Series|title=NFS Wiki - Need for Speed: Collector's Series|date=2023-06-29}}</ref> of the original Need for Speed: Underground, Underground 2 and Most Wanted is also available.
−
{{ii}} A compilation of the original Need for Speed: Underground, Underground 2 and Most Wanted is also available.
 
 
{{ii}} A faithful, higher quality icon can be found on [https://www.deviantart.com/triplezet/art/Need-for-Speed-Underground-2-HiDPI-icon-746208189 DeviantArt]. An alternate icon by AlexKVideos1 can be found on [https://www.steamgriddb.com/icon/11508 SteamGridDB].
 
{{ii}} A faithful, higher quality icon can be found on [https://www.deviantart.com/triplezet/art/Need-for-Speed-Underground-2-HiDPI-icon-746208189 DeviantArt]. An alternate icon by AlexKVideos1 can be found on [https://www.steamgriddb.com/icon/11508 SteamGridDB].
  
−
===Demo===
+
===Demo/free trial===
 
{{ii}} A playable demo is available on [https://archive.org/details/NeedForSpeedUnderground2_201405 the Internet Archive].
 
{{ii}} A playable demo is available on [https://archive.org/details/NeedForSpeedUnderground2_201405 the Internet Archive].
 
{{ii}} Progress will not be carried over to the main game.
 
{{ii}} Progress will not be carried over to the main game.
 +
 +
==Monetization==
 +
{{Monetization
 +
|ad-supported        =
 +
|dlc                =
 +
|expansion pack      =
 +
|freeware            =
 +
|one-time game purchase = The game requires an upfront purchase to access.
 +
|free-to-play        =
 +
|sponsored          =
 +
|subscription        =
 +
}}
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===Patches===
 
===Patches===
−
{{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1065-need-for-speed-undergound-2-patches/ Patch 1.2]. Strongly recommended.
+
{{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/2849-need-for-speed-underground-2-korean-patch-v11/ Patch 1.1 for Korean version] and [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1065-need-for-speed-undergound-2-patches/ Patch 1.2] (Strongly recommended) available.
  
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
Line 65: Line 78:
 
# Delete, move or rename <code>ealogo.vp6</code>, <code>FMVOpening.vp6</code>, <code>PSA.vp6</code>, and <code>THX_logo.vp6</code>.
 
# Delete, move or rename <code>ealogo.vp6</code>, <code>FMVOpening.vp6</code>, <code>PSA.vp6</code>, and <code>THX_logo.vp6</code>.
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{Fixbox|description=Use ThirteenAG's Widescreen Fix|ref=<ref>[https://github.com/ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack/pull/1027 New FOV Values, Updates, and Adjustments · Pull Request #1027 · ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack]</ref>|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use ThirteenAG's Widescreen Fix|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack/pull/1027|title=New FOV Values, Updates, and Adjustments · Pull Request #1027 · ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
# Install [https://thirteenag.github.io/wfp#nfsu2 ThirteenAG's fix].
 
# Install [https://thirteenag.github.io/wfp#nfsu2 ThirteenAG's fix].
 
# Set <code>SkipIntro</code> setting to 1 in its .ini file.
 
# Set <code>SkipIntro</code> setting to 1 in its .ini file.
Line 76: Line 89:
 
# Download ZIP files containing the files for the cars missing from your version of the game.
 
# Download ZIP files containing the files for the cars missing from your version of the game.
 
#* If you have the US version, download [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11527/ Peugeot 106] and the [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11528/ Vauxhall Corsa].
 
#* If you have the US version, download [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11527/ Peugeot 106] and the [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11528/ Vauxhall Corsa].
−
#* If you have the EU version, download [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11526/ Honda Civic] and [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/7928/ Acura RSX].  
+
#* If you have the EU version, download [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/11526/ Honda Civic] and [https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/7928/ Acura RSX].
 +
#* Backup [https://mega.nz/file/MEA3zI4S#qaHxSggw_n_zjzSUKmiVn5Xf0rTpOsjvUueA5GPw-hI link] if NFSCars isn't working.  
 
# Copy the contents of the <code>CARS</code> folder of both ZIP files into <code>{{p|game}}\CARS\</code>.  
 
# Copy the contents of the <code>CARS</code> folder of both ZIP files into <code>{{p|game}}\CARS\</code>.  
 
#* This should result in two new folders named <code>PEUGOT106</code> and <code>CORSA</code> in <code>{{p|game}}\CARS\</code>.
 
#* This should result in two new folders named <code>PEUGOT106</code> and <code>CORSA</code> in <code>{{p|game}}\CARS\</code>.
Line 89: Line 103:
 
===[https://github.com/xan1242/NFSU-XtendedInput Controller support improvements (NFSU XtendedInput)] ===
 
===[https://github.com/xan1242/NFSU-XtendedInput Controller support improvements (NFSU XtendedInput)] ===
 
{{++}} Improves gamepad support by implementing native XInput support into the game.
 
{{++}} Improves gamepad support by implementing native XInput support into the game.
−
{{++}} Xbox and PlayStation button prompts are both supported.
 
 
{{++}} Reimplements console-like controls with being able to rotate the car carousel in Garage with the right stick.
 
{{++}} Reimplements console-like controls with being able to rotate the car carousel in Garage with the right stick.
 
{{--}} Rebinding can be made only through .ini file. It's disabled in game menu, as for now it crashes the game.
 
{{--}} Rebinding can be made only through .ini file. It's disabled in game menu, as for now it crashes the game.
Line 139: Line 152:
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync notes                =  
 
|vsync notes                =  
−
|60 fps                    = limited
+
|60 fps                    = true
−
|60 fps notes              = Multiplayer Outrun is capped at 30 FPS.
+
|60 fps notes              =  
 
|120 fps                    = limited
 
|120 fps                    = limited
 
|120 fps notes              = Frame rate is capped at 120 FPS. See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
 
|120 fps notes              = Frame rate is capped at 120 FPS. See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
Line 166: Line 179:
 
{{++}} Includes <code>60FPSCutscenes = 1</code> by default.
 
{{++}} Includes <code>60FPSCutscenes = 1</code> by default.
 
{{ii}} Rain particles will not function properly at more than 60 FPS. If the rain does not work in Windows 7 or 10 follow this guide: [[#Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10)|Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10)]].<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fugi7-slFwE&t=65s|title=NFSU2 rain fix bug|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 
{{ii}} Rain particles will not function properly at more than 60 FPS. If the rain does not work in Windows 7 or 10 follow this guide: [[#Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10)|Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10)]].<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fugi7-slFwE&t=65s|title=NFSU2 rain fix bug|date=May 2023}}</ref>
−
{{--}} Gear changes are tied to the frame rate.<ref>[https://github.com/ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack/issues/1180 NFSU2 slow gearbox in high FPS · Issue #1180 · ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack]</ref>
+
{{--}} Gear changes are tied to the frame rate.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack/issues/1180|title=NFSU2 slow gearbox in high FPS · Issue #1180 · ThirteenAG/WidescreenFixesPack|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>
−
{{--}} Multiplayer Outrun mode is 30 FPS capped.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
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|surround sound          = false
 
|surround sound          = false
 
|surround sound notes    = Only Stereo and Mono available. Optimized for Dolby Pro Logic.
 
|surround sound notes    = Only Stereo and Mono available. Optimized for Dolby Pro Logic.
−
|subtitles                = unknown
+
|subtitles                = true
−
|subtitles notes          =  
+
|subtitles notes          = Only available in certain language edition.
 
|closed captions          = false
 
|closed captions          = false
 
|closed captions notes    =  
 
|closed captions notes    =  
Line 249: Line 261:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = true
 
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = hackable
−
  |notes    = UK and US English.
+
  |notes    = UK and US English. Use [[#Extra Options|Extra Options]] to display subtitles.
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
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  |subtitles = true
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Danish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Dutch
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 263: Line 297:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = true
 
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = false
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 270: Line 306:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = true
 
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = false
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 277: Line 315:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = true
 
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = false
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Japanese
 
  |language  = Japanese
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
−
  |audio    = unknown
+
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = false
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Korean
 
  |language  = Korean
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
−
  |audio    = true
+
  |audio    = false
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 298: Line 342:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    = Local retail only.
 
  |notes    = Local retail only.
−
  |fan      = true
+
|ref      =
 +
  |fan      =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 307: Line 352:
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = hackable
 
  |subtitles = hackable
−
  |notes    = [https://www.mixmods.com.br/2015/09/nfsu2-traducao-pt-br-nova/ Translation.]
+
  |notes    = Fan translation, [https://www.mixmods.com.br/2015/09/nfsu2-traducao-pt-br-nova/ download].  
 +
|ref      =
 
  |fan      = true
 
  |fan      = true
 
}}
 
}}
Line 316: Line 362:
 
  |subtitles = hackable
 
  |subtitles = hackable
 
  |notes    = Local retail only, [https://www.playground.ru/nfs_underground_2/file/rusifikator_teksta_dlya_need_for_speed_underground_2_s_podderzhkoj_subtitrov-1112771 download].
 
  |notes    = Local retail only, [https://www.playground.ru/nfs_underground_2/file/rusifikator_teksta_dlya_need_for_speed_underground_2_s_podderzhkoj_subtitrov-1112771 download].
 +
|ref      =
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
}}
 
}}
Line 323: Line 370:
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = unknown
 
  |subtitles = unknown
 +
|notes    = Fan translation, [https://slovenciny.com/need-for-speed-underground-2-sk-mixerx/ download] or [https://slovenciny.com/need-for-speed-underground-2-sk/ alternative translation].
 +
|ref      =
 
  |fan      = true
 
  |fan      = true
−
|notes    = Fan translation, [http://slovenciny.com/need-for-speed-underground-2-sk-mixerx/ download here] or alternative translation [http://slovenciny.com/need-for-speed-underground-2-sk/ here].
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 330: Line 378:
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = true
 
  |audio    = true
−
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = false
 +
|notes    =
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Swedish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 339: Line 398:
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|ref      =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Manually change game's language===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Registry edit to change game language|fix=
 +
#Go to <code>{{p|HKLM}}\SOFTWARE\{{p|wow64}}\EA Games\Need for Speed Underground 2\</code>.
 +
#Find the '''Language''' key and double click it.
 +
#Change the value to the following list below:
 +
#*English US
 +
#*Chinese (Traditional)
 +
#*Danish
 +
#*Dutch
 +
#*French
 +
#*German
 +
#*Italian
 +
#*Japanese
 +
#*Korean
 +
#*Polish
 +
#*Russian
 +
#*Spanish
 +
#*Swedish
 +
#*Thai
 +
 +
'''Notes'''
 +
{{ii}} Certain languages may not work for {{Term|FMV}} and voices if the installed game doesn't come with it.
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 345: Line 430:
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
|local play          = false
 
|local play          = false
−
|local play players  =  
+
|local play players  = 2
 
|local play modes    =  
 
|local play modes    =  
 
|local play notes    = Console versions only.
 
|local play notes    = Console versions only.
Line 352: Line 437:
 
|lan play modes      =  
 
|lan play modes      =  
 
|lan play notes      =  
 
|lan play notes      =  
−
|online play          = false
+
|online play          = hackable
 
|online play players  = 6
 
|online play players  = 6
 
|online play modes    =  
 
|online play modes    =  
−
|online play notes    = The official EA server was shut down in November 2007
+
|online play notes    = The official EA server was shut down in November 2007. Use [https://discord.gg/B229me5V6W NFSOR].
 
|asynchronous        =  
 
|asynchronous        =  
 
|asynchronous notes  =  
 
|asynchronous notes  =  
Line 371: Line 456:
 
}}{{Network/Ports
 
}}{{Network/Ports
 
|tcp  =  
 
|tcp  =  
−
|udp  =  
+
|udp  = 3658
−
|upnp =  
+
|upnp = false
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 478: Line 563:
  
 
===Particle system lag (Windows 10)===
 
===Particle system lag (Windows 10)===
−
 
 
{{ii}} Particle system causes lag, mostly at start of races, turning it off gets rid of the issue.
 
{{ii}} Particle system causes lag, mostly at start of races, turning it off gets rid of the issue.
 
{{ii}} Fullscreen Exclusive Mode causes lag
 
{{ii}} Fullscreen Exclusive Mode causes lag
Line 574: Line 658:
 
====[https://nfsmods.xyz/mod/4415 Videos ported from Xbox]====
 
====[https://nfsmods.xyz/mod/4415 Videos ported from Xbox]====
 
{{++}} Adds higher quality videos from the Xbox version.
 
{{++}} Adds higher quality videos from the Xbox version.
 +
 +
====[https://nfsmods.xyz/mod/5286 English Subtitles Fixed]====
 +
{{++}} Fixes unfinished subtitle support for cutscenes.
  
 
====[https://github.com/ThirteenAG/XboxRainDroplets/releases/tag/nfsu2 Xbox Rain Droplets]====
 
====[https://github.com/ThirteenAG/XboxRainDroplets/releases/tag/nfsu2 Xbox Rain Droplets]====
 
{{++}} Basic implementation of Xbox rain droplets from [https://github.com/aap/skygfx SkyGFX] for other games.
 
{{++}} Basic implementation of Xbox rain droplets from [https://github.com/aap/skygfx SkyGFX] for other games.
 +
 +
====[https://nfsmods.xyz/mod/1645 NFS UG2: The Smol Improvement]====
 +
{{++}} Introduces various balancing changes, such as adjusted race payouts, reduced URL lap counts, and more.
 +
{{ii}} [https://github.com/SpeedReflect/Binary/releases/ Binary] is required to install this mod.
  
 
====[https://github.com/thelink2012/novisualrep Visual Reputation Remover]====
 
====[https://github.com/thelink2012/novisualrep Visual Reputation Remover]====
−
{{++}} Makes it possible to progress through the game without ricing the car.
+
{{++}} Makes it possible to progress through the game without excessively customizing the car.
  
 
====[https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/14210/ NFS Underground 2 Music Importer]====
 
====[https://www.nfscars.net/need-for-speed-underground-2/6/files/view/14210/ NFS Underground 2 Music Importer]====

Latest revision as of 13:31, 24 April 2024

Need for Speed: Underground 2
Need for Speed: Underground 2 cover
Developers
EA Black Box[1]
Publishers
Electronic Arts
Engines
EAGL 2
Release dates
Windows November 9, 2004
Reception
Metacritic 82
IGDB 79
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person, Third-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Racing
Vehicles Automobile, Street racing
Art styles Realistic
Themes Contemporary
Series Need for Speed: Underground, Need for Speed
Need for Speed: Underground 2 on HowLongToBeat
Need for Speed: Underground 2 on IGDB
Icon overlay.png
Need for Speed: Underground 2 guide on StrategyWiki
Need for Speed: Underground 2 on MobyGames
Need for Speed: Underground 2 on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Need for Speed: Underground
Subseries of Need for Speed
Need for Speed: Underground 2003
Need for Speed: Underground 2 2004

Warnings

SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see Availability for affected versions).

Need for Speed: Underground 2 is a singleplayer and multiplayer racing game developed by EA Black Box and published by Electronic Arts. It is the eighth entry in the Need for Speed series and the second entry in the Need for Speed: Underground duology.

Like the previous game, Underground 2 centers around the import racing/tuning scenes and features JDM cars. It is also the first game in the series to have an open world, where players can drive freely around the city. The game's career mode's story takes places six months after the event of Underground and focus on an unnamed racer (the same racer players had played as in Underground) as they race in the fictional city of Bayview.

It was released in North America on November 9, 2004, followed by Europe and Japan releases on November 19, 2004 and December 22, 2004 respectively.

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
CD key
 SafeDisc v4 DRM[Note 1]. Has both a 2 CD and a DVD version.
Windows
SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see above for affected versions).
A compilation[4] of the original Need for Speed: Underground, Underground 2 and Most Wanted is also available.
A faithful, higher quality icon can be found on DeviantArt. An alternate icon by AlexKVideos1 can be found on SteamGridDB.

Demo/free trial

A playable demo is available on the Internet Archive.
Progress will not be carried over to the main game.

Monetization

Type Notes
One-time game purchase The game requires an upfront purchase to access.

Essential improvements

Patches

Patch 1.1 for Korean version and Patch 1.2 (Strongly recommended) available.

Skip intro videos

Invalidate the corresponding files[5]
  1. Go to <path-to-game>\MOVIES\
  2. Delete, move or rename ealogo.vp6, FMVOpening.vp6, PSA.vp6, and THX_logo.vp6.
Use ThirteenAG's Widescreen Fix[6]
  1. Install ThirteenAG's fix.
  2. Set SkipIntro setting to 1 in its .ini file.

Disable regional lock

Allows playing with both EU and US exclusive cars at the same time.
Instructions[citation needed]
  1. Download ZIP files containing the files for the cars missing from your version of the game.
  2. Copy the contents of the CARS folder of both ZIP files into <path-to-game>\CARS\.
    • This should result in two new folders named PEUGOT106 and CORSA in <path-to-game>\CARS\.
  3. Copy the contents of the Saves folder of both ZIP files into %LOCALAPPDATA%\NFS Underground 2\.
    • This should result in two new files named 106 and Corsa in %LOCALAPPDATA%\NFS Underground 2\.
  4. Download Need for Speed Underground 2 Extra Options.
  5. Unpack the archive, go to NFSU2 Extra Options\Main Files folder and copy both dinput8.dll file and scripts folder into the installation folder.
  6. Make sure that the option UnlockRegionalCars in scripts\NFSU2ExtraOptionsSettings.ini is set to 1.
  7. Use the US executable to launch the game (even if you have the EU version), otherwise it may crash.[citation needed]

Controller support improvements (NFSU XtendedInput)

Improves gamepad support by implementing native XInput support into the game.
Reimplements console-like controls with being able to rotate the car carousel in Garage with the right stick.
Rebinding can be made only through .ini file. It's disabled in game menu, as for now it crashes the game.
Controller vibration is not supported
Controls are reset to default.
Can be installed alongside both ThirteenAG's Widescreen Fix and NFSU2 Extra Options, as it uses ThirteenAG's Ultimate ASI Loader (the included dinput8.dll, which is a DLL injector) and therefore will load the .asi files for all three mods, and was developed with compatibility with the other two mods in mind.[7]

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\EA Games\Need for Speed Underground 2\[Note 2]
Key bindings are stored in %COMMONPROGRAMFILES%\DirectX\DirectInput\User Maps (32-bit Windows) or %COMMONPROGRAMFILES(x86)%\DirectX\DirectInput\User Maps (64-bit Windows).

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %LOCALAPPDATA%\NFS Underground 2\

Video

General video settings
General video settings
Advanced video settings
Advanced video settings
Advanced video settings
Advanced video settings
Advanced video settings
Advanced video settings

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
 
 Use ThirteenAG's fix.
Multi-monitor
 
 Use ThirteenAG's fix.
Ultra-widescreen
 
 Use ThirteenAG's fix and Ultrawide (21:9) Fix.
4K Ultra HD
 
 Use ThirteenAG's fix.
Field of view (FOV)
Use ThirteenAG's fix.
Windowed
See Windowed.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
See Windowed.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Anti-aliasing (AA)
FSAA
Vertical sync (Vsync)
60 FPS
120+ FPS
Frame rate is capped at 120 FPS. See High frame rate.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.
Use NFSU2 HUD Resizer to modify the offset values of the HUD elements.

Windowed

Set windowed/borderless/windowed with resizing[8]
  1. Install ThirteenAG's fix.
  2. Set WindowedMode to desired value. 1 for borderless, 2 for border, 3 for resizeable border.

High frame rate

Change FPSLimit[citation needed]
  1. Install ThirteenAG's fix.
  2. Open scripts\NFSUnderground2.WidescreenFix.ini.
  3. Set FPSLimit = 120 to desired frame rate limit.

Notes

Includes 60FPSCutscenes = 1 by default.
Rain particles will not function properly at more than 60 FPS. If the rain does not work in Windows 7 or 10 follow this guide: Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10).[9]
Gear changes are tied to the frame rate.[10]

Input

Input settings
Input settings

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Requires the DirectInput Mapper to remember bindings between sessions.
Mouse acceleration
Mouse is used only in menus. Default Windows behavior
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Fixed view
Controller
Controller support
Use ThirteenAG's fix to adjust deadzone.
Full controller support
Use NFSU XtendedInput
Controller remapping
Controller sensitivity
Controller Y-axis inversion
Unused
Controller types
XInput-compatible controllers
Use NFSU XtendedInput
Xbox button prompts
Use NFSU XtendedInput
Impulse Trigger vibration
PlayStation controllers
Use NFSU XtendedInput
PlayStation button prompts
Use NFSU XtendedInput
Light bar support
Adaptive trigger support
DualSense haptic feedback support
Connection modes
Generic/other controllers
Additional information
Controller hotplugging
Use NFSU XtendedInput
Haptic feedback
DirectInput controllers only.
Digital movement supported
Simultaneous controller+KB/M

Audio

Audio settings
Audio settings

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Master, Menu Music, In-Game Music, Speech, Effects, Tires and Engine sliders available.
Surround sound
Only Stereo and Mono available. Optimized for Dolby Pro Logic.
Subtitles
Only available in certain language edition.
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
EAX support
Although not advertised as such the game does support EAX, at least reverb effects, but without surround sound. It can be restored with ALchemy.
Royalty free audio
The main menu uses licensed music. It is hardcoded to play Riders on the Storm (ft. The Doors) by Snoop Dogg every time the game starts.

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
UK and US English. Use Extra Options to display subtitles.
Traditional Chinese
Danish
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Polish
Local retail only.
Brazilian Portuguese
Fan translation, download.
Russian
Local retail only, download.
Slovak
Fan translation, download or alternative translation.
Spanish
Swedish
Thai

Manually change game's language

Registry edit to change game language
  1. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\EA Games\Need for Speed Underground 2\.
  2. Find the Language key and double click it.
  3. Change the value to the following list below:
    • English US
    • Chinese (Traditional)
    • Danish
    • Dutch
    • French
    • German
    • Italian
    • Japanese
    • Korean
    • Polish
    • Russian
    • Spanish
    • Swedish
    • Thai

Notes

Certain languages may not work for FMV and voices if the installed game doesn't come with it.

Network

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
Local play
2 Console versions only.
LAN play
6
Online play
6 The official EA server was shut down in November 2007. Use NFSOR.

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
UDP 3658
This game does not support Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) for automatic port configuration.

VR support

3D modes State Notes
vorpX
G3D
User created game profile, see vorpx forum profile introduction.

Issues fixed

Custom bindings lost on game restart

Windows Vista and later lack a file needed for the game to remember custom mappings.
Download dimap.dll[5]
  1. Download dimap.dll.
  2. Extract it into the installation folder.

Controller deadzone issues

Fix left stick deadzone[11]
  1. Install ThirteenAG's fix.
  2. Deadzone can be adjusted in NFSUnderground2.WidescreenFix.ini.
Use NFSU-XtendedInput

The game doesn't load (crashes during loading screen)

This is likely caused by multi-monitor setups using multiple GPU's.[citation needed]
Potential workaround[citation needed]
  1. Turn off monitors which use another GPU or monitor duplication when starting up the game
  2. Turn it on once the game finishes loading if you still need them

Random crashing on entering/exiting shops

Can be caused by multiple CPUs.
Set affinity for speed2.exe to use only 1 CPU[citation needed]
  1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Esc)
  2. Click "set Affinity..."
  3. Untick all but ONE of the CPUs
  4. Click OK
Use ThirteenAG's Widescreen Fix[12]
  1. Install ThirteenAG's fix.
  2. Make sure SingleCoreAffinity setting is set to 1.
Recent changes in Widescreen Fix for NFSU2 include improved routines for single core performance.[13]
Use compatibility mode[citation needed]
  1. Open Properties from SPEED2.EXE
  2. Go to Compatibility Tab
  3. Set "Run this program in compatibility mode for: Windows XP (Service Pack 2)
  4. Click OK

Effects flicker (Windows 7 and 10)

Some effects, such as rain, car respawn effect or the nos flames, flicker or glitch. Otherwise, no issues.[citation needed]
Use compatibility mode[citation needed]
  1. Open Properties from SPEED2.EXE
  2. Go to Compatibility Tab
  3. Set "Run this program in compatibility mode for: Windows XP (Service Pack 2)
  4. Click OK
Use dgVoodoo 2[citation needed]

Particle system lag (Windows 10)

Particle system causes lag, mostly at start of races, turning it off gets rid of the issue.
Fullscreen Exclusive Mode causes lag
Optionally it is possible to disable VSync through video card settings, and keep Particle System on.
Run game in Windowed or Borderless Mode

Go to Windowed section

Use compatibility mode[citation needed]
  1. Open Properties from SPEED2.EXE
  2. Go to Compatibility Tab
  3. Set "Run this program in compatibility mode for: Windows XP (Service Pack 2)
  4. Click OK
Change FPSLimit[citation needed]
  1. Install Need for Speed Underground 2 Widescreen Fix.
  2. Open scripts\NFSUnderground2.WidescreenFix.ini.
  3. Set FPSLimit = 120 to 60.

Savegame name turned to random symbols, unable to save

This is likely extremely rare to occur.
Relaunch the game(this rollbacks progress to last time you saved)[citation needed]
Change the savegame name variable[citation needed]
  1. Keep the game running
  2. Download Cheat Engine
  3. Select the NFS Underground 2 proccess
  4. Select "String" in "Value Type"
  5. Tick the "Codepage" checkbox
  6. In "Text" enter first symbols of the changed savegame name (use Process Monitor and track the SPEED2.exe proccess WriteFile operations if unable to recognize the symbol)
  7. Press "First Scan"
  8. Select found values and double tap them or press the red arrow
  9. In the below window, change "Value" of the found values to your original savegame name
  10. Save the game

Music stops playing after Alt-Tab out of game window focus

Pause, return to the garage, then return to explore mode or the race

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9.0c
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
Having the game running in the background can affect audio of other programs, generally eliminating sounds below a certain decibel level. It's recommended to close the game to avoid this problem.

Modifications

Some mods could break LAN multiplayer mode component, making it impossible to host/join LAN servers.

HD Reflections

Changes resolution of reflections.

HUD Resizer

Adds ability to change HUD and FMV scale.

Extra Options

Adds many useful features and fixes.

Unlimiter

Fixes some issues and makes some improvements for add-on cars and events.

ZPatch

Fixes off-center window and mouse cursor in borderless windowed mode.
The game will always look for keyboard input even after alt-tabbing.

Videos ported from Xbox

Adds higher quality videos from the Xbox version.

English Subtitles Fixed

Fixes unfinished subtitle support for cutscenes.

Xbox Rain Droplets

Basic implementation of Xbox rain droplets from SkyGFX for other games.

NFS UG2: The Smol Improvement

Introduces various balancing changes, such as adjusted race payouts, reduced URL lap counts, and more.
Binary is required to install this mod.

Visual Reputation Remover

Makes it possible to progress through the game without excessively customizing the car.

NFS Underground 2 Music Importer

Makes it possible to replace in-game tracks with user .mp3 or .wav.

Uncensored & Restored Soundtrack

Restores every single song in the game to their full, unedited and/or uncensored and higher quality versions.

Olympic Imports

Aims to add the cut cars from beta/NFSUG1 and Underground Rivals back into Need for Speed Underground 2.
Requires Unlimiter and Car Sound Tuner to avoid crashes and bugs.

Scout's UI Remaster

Replaces low-res GUI and HUD graphics with high-res counterparts.
This mod is discontinued.

NFSU2: Upscaled HUD by LunicAura

A recreation of NFSU2's UI using mostly vector materials, with original texture proportions to help keep the same look.
Certain icons will appear different than their vanilla counterparts.

New HD Textures Pack

Remakes some of the ground textures to be as close to the originals as possible.
Author of this mod recommends to use 8K HDRI Skyboxes mod.

Lightsiders Global

Enhances the visuals of the game.
Does not require Texmod.
Deviates from the original look of the game.
Archived download link

NFS Underground 2 High Vision 1.10

Graphics improvement mod.
A set of textures from different authors in one package.

Need for Speed Underground 2 Last Breath

Improves the visuals of the game.

System requirements

Windows
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 98, 2000, ME, XP
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium III 933 MHz
System memory (RAM) 256 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 2 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 2
ATI Radeon 7500
32 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9.0c compatible
Sound (audio device) DirectX compatible


Notes

  1. ↑ SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows 10[2] or Windows 11 and is disabled by default on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 when the KB3086255 update is installed.[3]
  2. ↑ Applications writing to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE will be redirected to other locations based on various criterias, see the glossary page for more details.

References