Need for Speed: Underground RTX Remix mod just got a stunning update

NVIDIA's RTX Remix Mod Contest, which is offering $50,000 in cash prizes to the best RTX Remix mods for classic games, is wrapping up this week. Need for Speed: Underground RTX Remix is one of the mods that we've been following for a while, and as part of the contest, Version 0.5 of the project has been released.

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The update introduces over 500 new textures, further enhancing the visuals of this classic racing game from 2003. And as we're talking about a game that is now over two decades old, the update also replaces some of the models found in the game with new, highly detailed versions that add more detail to the world of nighttime racing.

The star of the show is the new path-traced lighting, which adds full ray-tracing to the game, dramatically improving the look and feel of races. It's transformative stuff, and a game-changer for what is widely considered to be one of the best entries in EA's iconic racing franchise.

The update is available now via ModDB, and it includes:

• 500 New Textures: A variety of new textures were created to enhance the game's visuals, adding intricate detail and realism to the environment.
• 30 New High-Poly 3D Models: The mod introduces a range of new, high-poly models to replace or enhance existing assets, bringing a fresh level of detail and depth to the game world.
• 26 Original Meshes: 26 existing meshes were remodeled, smoothed, and had their polygon counts significantly increased to provide more lifelike and smoother geometry.
• Reworked "Lock Up" Sprint Race Track: This race track has been enhanced with new vegetation and environmental improvements, creating a more immersive and dynamic racing experience.
• Full Overhaul of China Town: The iconic China Town area has been completely reworked with new models, textures, and lighting effects, transforming it into a more visually striking and immersive location

For more on RTX Remix, be sure to check out the following stories, which include the impressive RTX Remix path-tracing mod for the original Half-Life remake, Black Mesa.