Need for Speed: High Stakes is the fourth game in the main Need for Speed series.
Released in 1999, High Stakes followed Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit and was developed by EA Canada and EA Seattle. Its position as the fourth main game is also reflected by its Japanese title, Over Drivin' IV. In Europe and Brazil, it was released under the name Need for Speed: Road Challenge, which can make the numbering less obvious.
The game introduced a stronger sense of risk and consequence. Its High Stakes mode could put a player's saved car and upgrade investment on the line, while collisions damaged vehicles and affected both their appearance and performance. Players also earned money for purchases, repairs, and improvements.
Another notable feature was the return of the Porsche license, which had been absent from the preceding Need for Speed title. The game remained rooted in exotic-car racing and police pursuits, but its damage and career systems made it more strategically demanding than earlier entries.