Currently there are two known Need for Speed titles in development. In addition to Shift 2, there is also an unannounced title by Black Box. Since the release of Undercover, Black Box has been working on another entry to the franchise, presumably continuing the action focused street-racing gameplay of Black Box's previous titles. This game however, has an extended development window to give the developers a chance to create a game that "could really blow the doors off the category".It is confirmed that the game will feature a fictional storyline and characters, and is scheduled for release in November 2011.
EA's strategy is to provide the mass-market audience with an action adventure type NFS game annually for the holiday season. They alternate between several studios to ensure sufficient development time is given to provide a high quality entertainment experience in each product. With Criterion's Hot Pursuit released in November 2010 the next game is in development by Black Box and due November 2011. In addition, more authentic simulation type NFS games, i.e. under the Shift sub-series, will be released when the market permits and the developers feel ready.