Need for Speed: Rivals uses the Frostbite 3 Engine and takes place in an open road environment, where players can choose to be either police officers or racers. As racers, the goal is to become a notorious driver while avoiding getting caught by the police. Collect Speedpoints and unlock new cars and items to become a more "valuable" target for the police.
As a police officer, you are a member of a team trying to apprehend the fast drivers. Your performance in this mission will secure you a prominent position within the police ranks.